The terms left-wing and right-wing refer to ideological spectrums in politics. Left-wing politics generally advocate for social equality, government intervention in the economy, and progressive change, often aligning with ideologies such as socialism and liberalism. In contrast, right-wing politics emphasize individualism, free markets, and traditional values, closely associated with conservatism and libertarianism. This distinction helps to categorize various political beliefs and party affiliations, with policies and positions often reflecting these underlying principles.