Question

Read the passage and answer the question that follows:
In tough times or in times of a crisis, the democratic nation often becomes an authoritarian one. During ordinary times, nobody thinks about the political system. People just vote for those who make promises and try to keep them. As long as the country is secure and there is reasonable development, no one is bothered about the leaders and the policies. But, if there is some kind of aggressive revolution or a shortage of basic supplies or a lot of unemployed citizens, the leadership comes under question. 
Which one of the following statements best describes the central idea of the passage above: 

• A. if there is an economic collapse, democracy gets strengthened
• B. People are least concerned with economic policies, if their life is not affected.
• C. The communist governments were functioning without any popular support.
• D. Citizens are one with the government in ensuring law and order when sections of the society revolt.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The passage discusses the general attitudes of citizens towards their government during normal times versus times of crisis. Let's analyze the options to determine which best encapsulates the central idea.

1. Option 1: If there is an economic collapse, democracy gets strengthened.
   This option is not supported by the passage. The passage suggests that in times of crisis, a democratic nation may shift towards authoritarianism, not that democracy is strengthened.
2. Option 2: People are least concerned with economic policies if their life is not affected.
   This accurately reflects the passage's central idea. When life is stable and unchallenged, individuals are not as engaged with the political system or economic policies. Public interest peaks when a critical situation impacts everyday living conditions.
3. Option 3: The communist governments were functioning without any popular support.
   This statement is unrelated to the passage. The passage does not discuss communist governments or their public support.
4. Option 4: Citizens are one with the government in ensuring law and order when sections of the society revolt.
   This does not capture the passage's focus on the shift in citizens' attitudes during a crisis versus regular times. It talks about unity in law enforcement rather than the political system's change in perception and function.

Therefore, the most accurate choice is Option 2: People are least concerned with economic policies if their life is not affected. This option concisely captures the essence of the passage, which states that citizens generally do not question political systems or leaders as long as their lives are secure and there is reasonable development.