In the third paragraph, the author of the passage refers to criticism of the theory of pluralist democracy primarily ...

Mehran May 22, 2018

Hi @sarahxxkesler, thanks for your post.

This passage follows the following structure:

In paragraph 1, a specific theorist (Robert Dahl) is introduced and his theory (a defense of polyarchy) is described.

In paragraph 2, the concept of polyarchy is defined in much greater detail.

Paragraph 3 flags certain criticisms of the theory of pluralist democracy (also known as polyarchies - see lines 3-4).

Then in paragraph 4 the author notes that Mr. Dahl himself seems to agree with some of these criticisms, even though Dahl embraces polyarchy generally.

Answer choice (E) is correct because it identifies the role played by the introduction of the critics' views in the passage - to point out an objection to Dahl's defense of polyarchy.

Hope this helps! Please let us know if you have any additional questions.

Julie-V August 21, 2019

would (D) be incorrect because it states that paragraph three is pointing out a "flaw" when in fact it's criticizing instead? Thanks!