Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow by selecting the most appropriate option from the given alternatives.
Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of democratic societies, allowing individuals to express ideas, question authority, and promote change. However, in the digital world, this right encounters complex challenges. Social media platforms have become arenas where opinions can be voiced instantly-but also where hate speech, misinformation, and cyberbullying thrive. Balancing the right to speak freely with the responsibility to prevent harm is now a pressing debate. Should platforms censor harmful content, or would that violate freedom? While some argue that regulation is essential to protect vulnerable groups, others fear it might lead to suppression of dissent. The problem deepens when private companies-not elected bodies-decide what speech is allowed or banned. Striking the right balance requires thoughtful policies, digital literacy, and legal frameworks rooted in both human rights and public safety. In a world where words travel faster than thought, protecting free speech without enabling harm may be one of the defining tests of modern democracy.
What tone does the author adopt in the passage?
- AOption (a)
Dismissive
- BOption (b)
Alarmist
- COption (c)
Balanced and reflective
- DOption (d)
Aggressive
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Correct answer
Balanced and reflective
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is Option 3.
Key Points
- The passage discusses both the importance of freedom of speech and the challenges posed by digital platforms.
- The author presents multiple perspectives, including the need to protect free expression and the risks of harm from hate speech or misinformation.
- The tone is reflective because it carefully weighs pros and cons without exaggeration or dismissal.
- It is balanced because it neither overstates the dangers nor ignores them, and it suggests thoughtful solutions like policy, literacy, and legal frameworks.
Therefore, the correct answer is Balanced and reflective.
Additional Information
- Dismissive (उपेक्षापूर्ण): Ignores or downplays the importance of free speech; not applicable here.
- Alarmist (अतिशयोक्तिपूर्ण): Exaggerates dangers to provoke fear; the passage does not exaggerate.
- Aggressive (आक्रामक): Forceful or confrontational tone; the passage is analytical and measured, not aggressive.