Question

under new deal reforms, the biggest change to the traditional role of the federal government was

a higher degree of government regulation of business and the economy.
a lower degree of government regulation of business and the economy.
decreased government support for private/public partnerships.
decreased government support of laissez faire capitalism.

Explanation:

Analyze the question stem

The question asks for the biggest change to the traditional role of the federal government under New Deal reforms.

Evaluate the options

• Option 1: "a higher degree of government regulation of business and the economy." The New Deal introduced extensive federal programs, agencies, and regulations (like the SEC, FDIC, and Wagner Act) to stabilize and oversee the economy, representing a massive shift away from limited government.
• Option 2: "a lower degree of government regulation of business and the economy." This is incorrect because regulation increased significantly.
• Option 3: "decreased government support for private/public partnerships." This is incorrect as the government actively partnered with and funded various sectors.
• Option 4: "decreased government support of laissez-faire capitalism." While the New Deal did move away from laissez-faire, the primary, active structural change was the direct implementation of a higher degree of federal regulation and intervention in the economy.

Select the best answer

The most direct and accurate description of the shift in the federal government's role is a higher degree of regulation of business and the economy.

Answer:

• (A) a higher degree of government regulation of business and the economy. (Correct answer)
• (B) a lower degree of government regulation of business and the economy.
• (C) decreased government support for private/public partnerships.
• (D) decreased government support of laissez-faire capitalism.