Polity is a general term that refers to political organization of a group. It is often used to describe a loosely organized society such as a tribe or community, but can mean any political group including a government or empire. See also: body corporate and politic.

Polity is also used to decribe religious political organizations, particularly Christian. Subtypes of polities include hierarchical, presbyterial, and congregational.

Polity rule by the many, who are neither wealthy nor poor, in the interests of the whole community. - Aristotle

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