Democratic societies from the earliest times have expected their governments to protect the weak against the strong. No era of good feeling can justify discharging the police force or giving up the idea of public control over concentrated private wealth. On the other hand, it is obvious that a spirit of self-denial and moderation on the part of those who hold economic power will greatly soften the demand for absolute equality. The extent to which the Government must interfere with business, therefore, is not exactly measured by the extent to which economic power is concentrated into a few hands. The required degree of government interference depends mainly on whether economic powers are oppressively used, and on the necessity of keeping economic factors in a tolerable state of balance.But with all these threats to liberty, the powers of government are unavoidably increased. The growth of government is a necessary result of the growth of technology and of the problems that go with the use of machines and science. Since the Government in our nation must take on more powers to meet its problems, there is no way to preserve freedom except by making democracy more powerful.Tolerable state of balance in the last sentence may mean
Correct answer: C. A reasonable amount of government interference.
- A. An adequate level of police force.
- B. A reasonable level of economic equality.
- C. A reasonable amount of government interference.
- D. A reasonable check on economic power.
Explanation
In the passage, the term "tolerable state of balance" refers to maintaining equilibrium or stability in economic factors. The passage suggests that the extent of government interference should be determined by the necessity of keeping economic factors in check. Therefore, option C, "A reasonable amount of government interference," is the most fitting interpretation. It indicates that the government should intervene to ensure a balance in economic matters without necessarily implying excessive interference. The term "balance" implies a state where economic powers are appropriately regulated to prevent oppressive use and maintain a stable environment.
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