​The realist theory of democracy as a critique of the classical democracy was formulated by​

Correct option is A

The realist theory of democracy, as a critique of classical democracy, was primarily formulated by Joseph Schumpeter. In his seminal work Capitalism, Socialism and Democracy (1942), Schumpeter argued against the classical notion of democracy as rule by the people. He rejected the idealized view that democracy is a direct form of self-governance in which citizens actively participate in decision-making. Instead, Schumpeter argued that democracy is better understood as a competitive process in which political elites, through elections, compete for power. He posited that the masses play a passive role, selecting leaders who then make decisions on their behalf, rather than directly governing themselves. This was a shift from the classical view of democracy, which emphasized widespread participation and deliberation.

Information Booster:

Hannah Arendt: Arendt was a political theorist who focused on totalitarianism, authority, and the nature of power. While she critiqued forms of political domination, her ideas on democracy were more about participatory engagement and the role of public spaces in fostering political action. She did not formulate the realist theory of democracy.

Ernest Barker: Ernest Barker was a political scientist who contributed to the theory of democracy, particularly focusing on the historical development of democratic institutions. However, his work was not centered around a critique of classical democracy in the realist sense that Schumpeter proposed.

Thus, Schumpeter is the correct answer as he is the one who formulated the realist theory of democracy, critiquing the classical democratic ideals.​