“A good statesman, like any other sensible human being, learns more from his opponents than from his fervent supporters. For his supporters will push him to disaster unless his opponents show him where the dangers are. So if he is wise he will often pray to be delivered from his friends, because they will ruin him. But, though it hurts, he ought also to pray never to be left without opponents; for they keep him on the path of reason and good sense. The national unity of free people depends upon a sufficiently even balance of political power to make it impracticable for the administration to be arbitrary and for opposition to be revolutionary and irreconcilable.”

Which one of the following statements best reflects the critical message conveyed by the author of the passage?

Correct Answer: In a democracy, the opposition is indispensable for the balance of political power and good governance.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Understanding the Central Theme of the Passage:
The author emphasizes that a wise leader or statesman learns significantly more from opponents than from supporters. Supporters, in their fervor, can blindly push a leader toward ruin or bad decisions. In contrast, opponents highlight dangers, flaws, and keep the leader on the path of reason and good sense.

2. Analyzing Key Arguments and Conclusions:
- The passage asserts that national unity in a free society relies on a balanced distribution of political power.
- This balance prevents the governing administration from becoming arbitrary (dictatorial or reckless) and ensures the opposition remains constructive rather than revolutionary or irreconcilable.
- Thus, the presence of a strong, balanced opposition is essential for maintaining both political equilibrium and sound decision-making (good governance).

3. Evaluating the Options:
- Option 1: "Without opposition parties, the administration in a democracy gets to become more responsible." – This directly contradicts the passage, which argues that supporters without opponents push administrations to disaster.
- Option 2: "Democracy needs to have revolutionaries in opposition to keep the government alert." – Incorrect. The passage explicitly states that an even balance of power prevents opposition from becoming revolutionary.
- Option 3: "Rulers in a democracy need the support of opposition for their political survival." – Incorrect. The passage speaks about learning from opponents to avoid mistakes, not seeking their political support for personal survival.
- Option 4: "In a democracy, the opposition is indispensable for the balance of political power and good governance." – Correct. This accurately captures the critical message that an opposition keeps leaders grounded in reason, prevents arbitrary rule, and maintains political balance.