Media policy in a democracy — should government control all news? Statement: Should all news be controlled by the Government in a democracy? Arguments: I. Yes — variety of news only confuses people. II. No — controlled news loses credibility.
Verbal Reasoning
Statement and Argument
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AOnly argument I is strong
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BOnly argument II is strong
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CEither I or II is strong
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DNeither I nor II is strong
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EBoth I and II are strong
Answer
Correct Answer: Only argument II is strong
Explanation
Introduction / Context:The question addresses press freedom versus government control in a democratic setup. A strong argument must align with democratic principles and practical outcomes for information integrity and public trust.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- I claims diversity confuses citizens.
- II argues that government-controlled news loses credibility among the public.
- Democracies value pluralism and independent verification as checks on power.
Concept / Approach:
- Credibility in news depends on independence, transparency, and accountability. Monopolized, state-controlled narratives are prone to bias and erosion of trust.
- Citizens can process varied information; institutions (public broadcasters, press councils) and media literacy help reduce confusion without censorship.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Argument I: Asserting that variety “confuses” people is paternalistic and ignores the role of plural media in democracy. Weak.Argument II: Controlled news tends to be distrusted and is vulnerable to propaganda, undermining democratic accountability. Strong.Verification / Alternative check:
Historical experience shows that press control typically reduces investigative scrutiny and public confidence, validating II.Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Only I / Both / Either / Neither: These fail to recognize that I is weak while II is cogent and relevant.Common Pitfalls:
Equating information management with truth; credibility stems from independence, not monopoly.Final Answer:
Only argument II is strong