A politikai elmélet is a branch of political science that explores the fundamental ideas and principles underlying political systems and behaviors. It examines concepts such as power, justice, authority, and governance, providing frameworks to understand how societies organize themselves and make decisions. These theories often draw from historical contexts and philosophical traditions, including the works of thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, and John Locke. By analyzing different political ideologies, such as liberalism and socialism, political theory helps us comprehend the complexities of political life and the values that shape our institutions and policies.