The democratic role of the press: The press should uphold just causes, criticise government constructively, vigilantly protect the rights of workers and suppressed groups, and provide balanced coverage to help people form healthy public opinion; which statement is best supported?

Given data

• Press should support just, righteous causes and offer healthy criticism.
• Press must protect the rights of workers and suppressed sections.
• Press should provide balanced views to shape healthy public opinion.

Concept/Approach (institutional function)These functions—scrutiny, advocacy, balance—are hallmarks of a robust democratic press, implying its great role in democracy.

Step-by-Step reasoning1) Identify roles: watchdog, advocate, informer.2) Map to democracy: these ensure accountability and informed citizenry.3) Choose the statement asserting a major democratic role.

Verification/Alternative checkThe passage does not claim exclusivity (only medium) or partisan messaging; freedom is important but not the sole element stated.

Final AnswerThe press has a great role to play in a democracy.