As used in this chapter:

1. (a) “Employee” includes an officer, employee, or servant, whether or not compensated, but does not include an independent contractor.
2. (b) “Employment” includes office or employment.
3. (c) “Public entity” includes the state, the Regents of the University of California, a county, city, district, public authority, public agency, and any other political subdivision or public corporation in the state.