Final answer:
The first paragraph in 'Protecting People' by Eric Arneson aims to introduce the topic, set the tone, and outline the central idea or thesis of the text.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of the first paragraph in "Protecting People" by Eric Arneson is generally to introduce the topic, set the tone, and provide a framework for the arguments or information that will follow. It might establish the importance of social protection measures, present a startling fact or statistic to grab the reader's attention, or outline the scope of the issue at hand. The opening paragraph often contains a thesis statement or a summary of the central idea that is further developed throughout the text.