The term "political culture" refers to the collective values, beliefs, and attitudes of a population regarding politics and governance. It encompasses the shared norms that influence how citizens view political authority, participation, and civic responsibility. Political culture shapes public opinion, voter behavior, and the overall functioning of a political system. Factors such as history, religion, and socialization contribute to its development. Understanding political culture is essential as it affects everything from policy preferences to the legitimacy of institutions, ultimately guiding how citizens engage with their government and each other.