Why does the government need to take the responsibility of providing basic services like health and education…

Question

Why does the government need to take the responsibility of providing basic services like health and education, rather than leaving them entirely to the private sector?

Accepted Answer

## Model Answer The government must take responsibility for health and education because the private sector is guided by the profit motive and would charge high rates, making these services unaffordable for the poor. These are primary responsibilities of the government, which must ensure quality education and healthcare for all citizens, especially the most vulnerable. *Source: Sectors in Terms of Ownership: Public and Private Sectors, Chapter 2* --- ## Explanation The key idea examiners look for is **two reasons**: (1) private sector works for profit → services become costly/inaccessible, and (2) health and education are the **primary/constitutional responsibility** of the government. Quoting the textbook phrase "primary responsibility of the government" scores well. Don't forget to mention the poor/vulnerable — the textbook specifically states the government must care for the poorest sections.

Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question