Final answer:
Politics encompasses the system of government and the broader processes of decision-making and distribution of power, reflecting societal values and norms, and is studied through political science and sociology. The correct option is a.
Step-by-step explanation:
Politics can be viewed as a broad concept that encompasses both the system of government and the processes involved in decision-making and distribution of power within a society, often reflecting its underlying social norms and values. It includes activities both inside and outside of the formal structure of government and affects many aspects of our daily lives. Political science is the systematic study of these phenomena, using empirical or philosophical methods to understand how leaders are chosen and how power is allocated.
Politics also refers to the art of diplomacy, the process for resolving disputes, and the allocation of scarce resources. Therefore, when considering options a), b), c), and d) provided in the student's question, 'politics' is most appropriately defined as a system of government, which is a structured approach to governing and the distribution of power, but also encompasses the broader interactions between citizens and their governments and the impact of these on societal norms and values.
Hence, Option a is correct.