Determining the "polity" generally involves identifying and analyzing the following aspects of a political entity:

1. Type of Government:
   • Is it a democracy, republic, monarchy, oligarchy, theocracy, or some other form?
   • How is power distributed and exercised?
2. Political Institutions:
   • What are the main governing bodies (e.g., parliament, executive branch, judiciary)?
   • How are they structured and what are their functions?
3. Ideology and Political Culture:
   • What are the dominant political ideologies (e.g., liberalism, conservatism, socialism)?
   • What are the prevailing values, beliefs, and attitudes towards politics?
4. Legal Framework:
   • What is the constitution or set of fundamental laws?
   • How are laws made and enforced?
5. Political Actors:
   • Who are the key political players (e.g., political parties, interest groups, civil society organizations)?
   • What are their roles and influence?
6. Sovereignty and Territory:
   • What are the defined boundaries of the political entity?
   • Who has the legitimate claim to exercise authority within that territory?

By examining these components, one can determine the nature and characteristics of a polity.