Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow by selecting the most appropriate option from the given alternatives.
Freedom of speech is a cornerstone of democratic societies, allowing individuals to express ideas, question authority, and promote change. However, in the digital world, this right encounters complex challenges. Social media platforms have become arenas where opinions can be voiced instantly-but also where hate speech, misinformation, and cyberbullying thrive. Balancing the right to speak freely with the responsibility to prevent harm is now a pressing debate. Should platforms censor harmful content, or would that violate freedom? While some argue that regulation is essential to protect vulnerable groups, others fear it might lead to suppression of dissent. The problem deepens when private companies-not elected bodies-decide what speech is allowed or banned. Striking the right balance requires thoughtful policies, digital literacy, and legal frameworks rooted in both human rights and public safety. In a world where words travel faster than thought, protecting free speech without enabling harm may be one of the defining tests of modern democracy.
Why is regulation of speech on social media controversial?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
According to the text, the controversy stems from several conflicting factors:
Fear of Censorship: Many worry that regulating content could lead to the suppression of dissent and violate the fundamental right to free speech.
Private Authority: The problem is complicated by the fact that private companies, rather than elected bodies, are often the ones deciding what speech is permitted or banned.
Balancing Act: There is a difficult tension between the need to protect vulnerable groups from hate speech or misinformation and the risk of over-regulation.