What would Benjamin Franklin most likely see as a major role of the press?

• A. To defend the nation
• B. To investigate and report on government actions
• C. To set monetary policy
• D. To draft laws

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is that the press acts as a watchdog for the people, especially by investigating government actions and informing citizens about what those in power are doing. Benjamin Franklin, a printer and publisher who believed strongly in liberty and informed self-government, used newspapers to shine a light on government activities, expose abuses, and explain public affairs so people could participate wisely in governance. This makes reporting on what the government does the central role of the press in his view, because transparency and accountability safeguard liberty. Tasks like defending the nation, setting monetary policy, or drafting laws belong to government institutions, not the press, so they don’t fit Franklin’s concept of the press’s major role.