14. Based on the above passage, the following assumptions have been made : 1. Internet is not inclusive enough. 2. Internet can adversely affect the quality of policies in a country. Which of the assumptions given above is/are valid?

1. A. 1 only
2. B. 2 only
3. C. Both 1 and 2
4. D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Explanation

Both assumptions are valid based on the passage. Assumption 1 is supported by the statement, ‘When anonymous private entities with high capital can pay for more space for their opinions, they are effectively buying a louder voice.’ This implies that access to a significant audience on the internet is not equal and is influenced by financial power, making it not inclusive enough. Assumption 2 is supported by the line, ‘If political discourse in the digital sphere is a matter of outshining one’s opponent till the election is won, then the quality of politics suffers.’ This directly suggests that the nature of internet-based political discourse can negatively impact the quality of politics, and by extension, the quality of policies in a country. This question tests the ability to identify underlying premises or implications within the passage.