What are/ is politics?

Definition of politics according to Merriam Webster Dictionary:

“1a : the art or science of government

b : the art or science concerned with guiding or influencing governmental policy

c : the art or science concerned with winning and holding control over a government

2 : political actions, practices, or policies

3a : political affairs or business especially : competition between competing interest groups or individuals for power and leadership (as in a government)

b : political life especially as a principal activity or profession

c : political activities characterized by artful and often dishonest practices

4 : the political opinions or sympathies of a person

5a : the total complex of relations between people living in society

b : relations or conduct in a particular area of experience especially as seen or dealt with from a political point of view”

( https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/politics)

Our parents often have an opinion and sure, some news stories pop up in our social media feeds, but we rarely have the time to stop and read them on our own.

Things might not seem like they’re of great importance to you, but they are. Even as a young adult the person we elect into office is going to affect us. Understanding the different platforms, a candidate’s reputation in office, their promises for the country or city, and what their plans will mean for your life is crucial. The older you get, the more responsibility you’ll need to take on and a big part of being an adult is keeping up with those who shape the rules of your adulthood.

Another big reason why you should care is because you’ll learn where you fall on the political spectrum and realize how important your voice is. When you turn 18, your vote matters in elections and the more you know about politics, the more likely you are to make yourself heard. Ignore that voice in your head telling you your voice doesn’t matter because it absolutely does. Sticking up for something and coming to terms with your own beliefs will help you in the long run, especially as you get older.

Plus, politics can affect your life in funny ways. Politicians can also tweak how government funding for school is handled. These scenarios might not seem like immediate reasons for concern, but one day they might sneak into your life and understanding the proper procedure and new laws concerning these things is bound to help you.

Like it or not, politics will have an impact on your everyday life. Not knowing about politics or make an active decision to ignore it is a one-way ticket to ignoring how the world around you works. You shouldn’t shy away from how things are done or why laws and bills came into fruition. Ignoring politics is like ignoring the news. You can’t do it. It’s around you all the time for a reason: it’s important to keep up to date with politicians and their latest policies because it plays a part in your life.