Political Philosophers: What is the most important function of government?

Question

Any kind of government at any level of society.

Please give a one-word or short phrase response, and then argue for your response in as many words as you want.

I have an answer, but I want to read yours first.

Answer 1

to protect it citizens

Answer 2

Protecting the peoples' right to "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness"... nothing more, nothing less...

Answer 3

safeguarding individual liberty

Answer 4

To keep the poor people from murdering the rich people.

Answer 5

To solve the problems of the people and to make sure they cause the least trouble as possible.

Answer 6

Roads

The government should be put in charge of roads.   Surly with only one thing to do they could get it right.

Answer 7

Management.

To manage an environment in where the peoples success is limited only by their own determination and will. Where success or failure is not determined by race, color, or religion.

Answer 8

Protection of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Answer 9

to manage and redistribute wealth.

Which is the correct answer -- at least if studying pol-sci for 4 years had anything to do with it.