In this numbered error spotting question, read the sentence and identify the part that contains an error. The sentence is: "Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should provide us (1) with open networks and should not block or discriminate for (2) any application or content that rides over those networks. (3) No error (4)". Choose 1, 2, 3, or 4.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests correct preposition usage in a modern technological context. The sentence discusses what Internet Service Providers should or should not do with respect to applications and content on their networks. One part of the sentence contains a preposition that is not idiomatic in English for this situation. You must locate that part.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Sentence with parts:
  • (1) Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should provide us
  • (2) with open networks and should not block or discriminate for
  • (3) any application or content that rides over those networks.
  • (4) No error.
• Options: 1, 2, 3, 4.
• The intended meaning is that ISPs should not block or discriminate against any application or content.

Concept / Approach:
The correct phrasal expression is "discriminate against" when describing unfair treatment of a person, group, application, or content. The preposition "for" does not form this idiom. We say "do not discriminate against any user" and by extension "do not discriminate against any application or content". Therefore, the segment that uses "discriminate for" contains the error.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Check part (1): "Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should provide us" is grammatically sound and introduces the subject and verb. Step 2: Examine part (2): "with open networks and should not block or discriminate for". The phrase "discriminate for" is not idiomatic. The correct expression is "discriminate against". Step 3: Part (3): "any application or content that rides over those networks." This is a clear object of the verbs "block or discriminate against" and is grammatically correct. Step 4: Therefore, the only incorrect part is segment (2), which should be "with open networks and should not block or discriminate against".

Verification / Alternative check:
Rewrite the corrected sentence: "Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should provide us with open networks and should not block or discriminate against any application or content that rides over those networks." This is the standard wording used in discussions of net neutrality. If we leave "discriminate for", the meaning becomes unclear and incorrect, as the phrase suggests favouring something without the usual negative nuance of discrimination.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Part (1) properly introduces what ISPs should do and has correct grammar.

Part (3) correctly states "any application or content that rides over those networks", which is understandable and grammatical.

Option (4) "No error" is wrong because we have already found the incorrect preposition in part (2).

Common Pitfalls:
Learners sometimes confuse "discriminate against" with expressions like "care for" or "vote for" and wrongly attach "for" to "discriminate". Remember that in standard English, "discriminate against" is used when someone is treated unfairly, while "discriminate between" is used when distinguishing two things. Knowing these patterns prevents common mistakes in both speaking and exams.

Final Answer:
The error is in part (2); "discriminate for" should be "discriminate against", so option 2 is correct.