politics

(noun) social relations involving intrigue to gain authority or power. Synonyms: political relation. Example: "Office politics is often counterproductive."

(noun) the study of government of states and other political units. Synonyms: political science, government.

(noun) the profession devoted to governing and to political affairs.

(noun) the opinion you hold with respect to political questions. Synonyms: political sympathies.

(noun) the activities and affairs involved in managing a state or a government. Examples: "Unemployment dominated the politics of the inter-war years." "Government agencies multiplied beyond the control of representative politics."