The Federal Trade Commission was created to _____.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) was established primarily to prevent anticompetitive business practices. This foundational role is critical in maintaining a fair marketplace where competition thrives, ensuring that no single company can dominate a market to the detriment of consumers or other businesses.

While the FTC certainly plays an important part in preventing deceptive practices, such as misleading advertising and the bait-and-switch tactic, its overarching mission includes a broader focus on maintaining competitive practices. The education of consumers regarding their purchasing decisions also falls within the FTC's scope, but it is not the primary reason for its establishment.

Thus, while options related to preventing deceptive practices and consumer education are valid functions of the FTC, the most accurate and encompassing answer regarding the core purpose of the commission is its role in preventing anticompetitive practices. This enables the FTC to uphold competition and promote consumer protection effectively in the marketplace.