Assertion (A): Throughout the world, the governments are withdrawing from their social responsibilities and the business sector is stepping into the space created as a result of Government withdrawals.
Reason (R): The general public is not reacting to the situation as the media is supporting such a move.
- Both (A) and (R) are true.
- Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not correct explanation of (A).
- (A) is true, but (R) is false.
- (A) is false, but (R) is true.
Correct Ans: (A)
Explanation:
Governments across the globe are steadily stepping back from their traditional social responsibilities. They are reducing their roles in education, healthcare, housing, and welfare. As a result, the business sector is moving in to fill the void. Private companies now run many services that once belonged to the state.
This trend is not new. In fact, it’s part of a broader shift towards privatization and neoliberal economic policies. Governments claim efficiency and cost-saving as reasons. Yet, this shift often leaves vulnerable populations with reduced support.
At the same time, the public’s reaction remains muted. This is surprising, considering these changes impact daily life. One strong reason for this silence is the role of media. In many cases, mainstream media supports or normalizes the shift. It either promotes corporate solutions or avoids criticizing government withdrawal.
Because of this, people don’t always recognize the depth of the change. They don’t question it, as the media frames it as progress or necessity. Consequently, protest is limited, and the conversation stays controlled.
Both the assertion and the reason are true. And in this case, the reason directly connects to the assertion. When the media supports corporate involvement, the public is less likely to resist or even notice the transition.
In short, governments are stepping back, businesses are stepping in, and the media shapes public perception, often softening the blow of these major shifts.