Final answer:
Steven Levitsky is most closely identified with the concept of competitive authoritarianism, which describes regimes that appear democratic but employ undemocratic practices to maintain power. Max Weber, who is known for his work on authority and the 'iron cage,' is not associated with this term. The correct option is 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scholar most closely identified with the idea of “competitive authoritarianism” is Steven Levitsky. This term is used to describe regimes that are formally democratic, where elections are held and opposition parties compete for power, but where the playing field is heavily skewed in favor of incumbents who engage in various undemocratic practices to stay in power. Competitive authoritarian regimes are characterized by violations of civil liberties, unfair electoral processes, and the use of state resources for incumbent advantage.
The concept of competitive authoritarianism contrasts with clear-cut authoritarian regimes where no semblance of democratic institutions is present, and also with fully democratic societies where free and fair competition for power is upheld. Levitsky's work, often alongside Lucan A. Way, highlights how these regimes maintain a facade of democracy while systematically undermining the actual mechanics of a democratic society.
Max Weber, another sociologist mentioned in the question, is well-known for his concept of the 'iron cage' and his extensive work on authority, bureaucracy, and social structures. While he was not associated with the concept of competitive authoritarianism, his studies of authority types and the rationalization of society have greatly influenced sociological thought and the analysis of political systems.
Hence, Option 1 is correct.