Question

The quote below is an excerpt from the Supreme Court's ruling in New York Times v. United States (1971): In the First Amendment, the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors. Which statement supports this ruling?
a. Media intrusions into people's privacy threaten individual liberties.
b. An aggressive media serves as a check on the government's power.
c. Citizens need access to reliable news sources in order to be well informed. ( wrong answer )
d. Government ownership of news sources threatens freedom and democracy.

Answer 1

Answer: b. An aggressive media serves as a check on the government's power.

This is the most likely answer out of the given options. The First Amendment protects the freedom of the press by ensuring that freedom of speech is respected in the country. More importantly, it states that the press must serve the citizens, and not the government. This is important because an active and aggressive media that is protected by the law can act as a check on the government's power.

Answer 2

"b. An aggressive media serves as a check on the government's power" would be the best option, since the First Amendment guarantees free speech in order to make sure that people can speak against their government.