Correct option is C
The concept of "Polyarchy" as a model of democratic process has been expounded by Robert Dahl. Polyarchy describes a form of government that allows for high levels of public participation and contestation, making it a realistic representation of democracy in practice. Dahl argued that ideal democracy is often unattainable, but polyarchy offers a framework for functioning democracies through institutional guarantees.
Explanation of Other Options:
1. (a) John Dewey:
· Incorrect. Dewey emphasized participatory democracy and education’s role in fostering democratic values but did not develop the concept of polyarchy.
2. (b) Samuel Huntington:
· Incorrect. Huntington wrote about political order and the "third wave" of democratization but did not propose the polyarchy model.
3. (c) Robert Dahl:
· Correct. Dahl’s model of polyarchy focuses on systems with pluralism, inclusiveness, and competitive elections.
4. (d) Karl Mannheim:
· Incorrect. Mannheim contributed to the sociology of knowledge but did not discuss polyarchy.
Information Booster:
1. Key Features of Polyarchy (Robert Dahl):
· Inclusiveness: Broader participation in the political process.
· Public Contestation: Free and fair competition for political power.
· Institutional guarantees like freedom of speech, association, and voting rights.
2. Importance of Polyarchy:
· Recognizes practical limitations in achieving ideal democracy.
· Emphasizes the role of institutions and pluralism in sustaining democratic governance.
3. Major Works by Robert Dahl:
·
A Preface to Democratic Theory (1956).
·
Polyarchy: Participation and Opposition (1971).