The second function of government is to:

• A. Promote values
• B. Maintain order
• C. Resolve conflict
• D. Provide services

Answer: (D)

In governance, after establishing the rules and safety of society, the next practical role is delivering services that people rely on daily. Providing services means the government offers and maintains the programs and infrastructure that individuals and markets alone can’t reliably supply or would underprovide—things like roads, schools, water and sanitation, healthcare, public safety, and welfare programs. This service delivery helps daily life run smoothly, supports economic activity, and ensures access for everyone, funded through taxes and coordinated planning. While promoting shared values or resolving conflicts are important aspects of governance, they are not as directly tied to meeting citizens’ everyday needs through organized programs and infrastructure, which is why providing services is the best fit for the second function.