Politics

 Politics refers to the activities associated with gaining and exercising power within a group or society, essentially the “what” of governance and power dynamics. Political science, on the other hand, is the academic study of these activities, using scientific methods to analyze and understand political systems, behavior, and institutions.

• Politics: This involves the practical aspects of governance, including policymaking, elections, and the struggle for power. It’s the real-world process of how societies are organized and how decisions are made. 
• Political Science: This is the academic discipline that uses social science methodologies to study politics. It examines the theory and practice of politics, analyzes political systems, and explores political behavior.

A political scientist might study the history of democratic systems (political science), while a politician might be actively involved in running for office and campaigning (politics).