Which of the following is NOT one of the major purposes of government according to general political theory?

The primary purposes of government, as indicated by general political theory, focus on core responsibilities such as ensuring national security, providing public services, and making economic decisions. These functions serve to maintain order, support societal needs, and promote the welfare of the citizenry within a structured framework.

Ensuring national security involves protecting the state and its citizens from external threats and maintaining sovereignty. Providing public services like education, transportation, and healthcare directly supports the community's well-being and quality of life. Making economic decisions includes the regulation of markets and the establishment of fiscal policies to encourage economic stability and growth.

Regulating social media, while increasingly relevant in contemporary discussions of technology and communication, does not fall under the traditional or foundational roles of government as defined in political theory. Instead, it represents a more modern consideration of governance, emerging from the unique challenges posed by digital communication and information dissemination in the 21st century. As such, this specific function does not align with the classical objectives of government.