____ represents what affirmative action programs basically strive to do.

A) Break the white male monopoly
B) Make up for past discrimination
C) Increase job opportunities for women
D) Protect racial minorities
E) Prevent future discrimination

Affirmative action programs aim to address past discrimination by providing opportunities or preferential treatment to marginalized groups who have historically been discriminated against. This can include women, racial minorities, and other groups. The goal is to create a more level playing field and make up for past injustices. While breaking the white male monopoly or increasing job opportunities for women may be outcomes of affirmative action programs, they are not the primary objective. Similarly, protecting racial minorities and preventing future discrimination may be byproducts of affirmative action, but they are not the main goal.