Pol"i*tics (?), n. [Cf. F.
politique, Gr. ? (sc.?). See Politic.]
1. The science of government; that part of ethics
which has to do with the regulation and government of a nation or
state, the preservation of its safety, peace, and prosperity, the
defense of its existence and rights against foreign control or
conquest, the augmentation of its strength and resources, and the
protection of its citizens in their rights, with the preservation and
improvement of their morals.
2. The management of a political party; the
conduct and contests of parties with reference to political measures
or the administration of public affairs; the advancement of candidates
to office; in a bad sense, artful or dishonest management to secure
the success of political candidates or parties; political
trickery.
When we say that two men are talking politics,
we often mean that they are wrangling about some mere party
question.
F. W. Robertson.