The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Statics \Stat"ics\ (-[i^]ks), n. [Cf. F. statique, Gr. statikh`
   the art of weighing, fr. statiko`s. See Static.]
   That branch of mechanics which treats of the equilibrium of
   forces, or relates to bodies as held at rest by the forces
   acting on them; -- distinguished from dynamics.
   [1913 Webster]

   Social statics, the study of the conditions which concern
      the existence and permanence of the social state.
      [1913 Webster]