Insurance is a contract between an insurer and insured where the insurer agrees to compensate the insured for financial losses in exchange for a premium payment. It helps manage risk by providing financial protection against uncertainties. The main types of insurance are life, health, property, and liability insurance. Key principles are utmost good faith, insurable interest, and indemnity. The process begins with an application, then the insurer assesses risk and sets a premium, issuing a policy if accepted that outlines coverage terms. Insurance benefits include financial protection from hardships, enabling savings and investment, and contributing to economic growth through stability and confidence.