Political theories help us understand politics, but they can also misrepresent what’s really happening. Let’s break it down into simpler parts.

1. Showing Reality:

   • Some theories, like realism, focus on how power works in international relations.
   • For example, the balance of power is something we can see in how countries interact, like what's happening between the U.S. and China.

2. Changing Reality:

   • On the other hand, some theories, such as Marxism, can make complicated social and economic issues seem too simple.
   • For instance, the idea of a classless society doesn’t always recognize the real differences that exist between people, even after major changes happen.

3. Theory and Practice Working Together:

   • Theories can help shape laws and policies.
   • For instance, democratic ideas can push for reforms, but the real-world challenges—like existing interests—can twist how these ideas are put into action.

In summary, political theories are useful for understanding politics, but they need to adjust to the complicated realities of the world we live in.