The study of the system of kinship within the sphere of sociology has garnered significant attention in the context of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examinations, emerging as a pivotal optional topic for aspirants seeking success in this competitive arena. The years spanning from 2013 to 2023 have witnessed a discernible focus on the exploration of the intricacies of the system of kinship within the UPSC Mains, underscoring the enduring relevance of this fundamental sociological construct. Analyzing the previous year’s questions not only provides a comprehensive understanding of the diverse forms and structures of kinship systems but also offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of familial relationships, lineage, and the complexities of kin-based social organizations. By engaging with this rich reservoir of questions, students can cultivate a profound understanding of the multifaceted dimensions of kinship, thus enhancing their preparedness to tackle the multifaceted challenges posed by the UPSC examinations.
Embarking on the journey to explore the previous year’s questions on the System of Kinship within the framework of the UPSC Mains illuminates the timeless significance of kinship structures in shaping societal organization and cultural practices. From unraveling the complexities of lineage systems to examining the roles and functions of kinship in different cultural contexts, these questions shed light on the enduring importance of kinship as a fundamental social institution. Embracing the wealth of insights encapsulated within these questions, sociology enthusiasts can embark on a transformative journey of intellectual exploration, enriching their understanding of the intricate interplay between familial relations, cultural norms, and the construction of social identities within diverse societies.
System of Kinship – Previous Year Questions (UPSC CSE Mains Sociology Optional)
1. Discuss various theoretical perspectives on the family. (2022)
2. How do you understand the relationship between patriarchy and social development? (2022)
3. Discuss the changing nature of kinship relations in the contemporary world. (2021)
4. Discuss the consequences of Across Region marriage on kinship system in modern Indian society. (2020)
5. What is the impact of gender division of labour on the development of society? (2020)
6. Does the institution of marriage continue to be sacred in Indian society? Comment. (2020)
7. In the light of judicial intervention on ‘Live-in relationships’, discuss the future of marriage and family in India. (2019)
8. What, according to Irawati Karve, are the major differences between North Indian and South Indian Kinship systems? (2019)
9. What are the new forms of family in developed societies? Discuss. (2018)
10. Distinguish between family and household with reference to the concept of development of the household. (2018)
11. Define patriarchy. How does patriarchy manifest in interpersonal relations? (2018)
12. Examine ‘patriarchal bargain’ as gendered division of work in contemporary India. (2017)
13. Examine the relationship between the contemporary trends in marriage and changing forms of family (2017)
14. Discuss the regional variations of kinshipsystem in Indian society. (2017)
15. To what extent is patriarchy a cause for the problems of women ? Discuss. (2016)
16. Discuss the contemporary trends in family as a response to social change in modern society. (2016)
17. Distinguish between family and household as sociological concepts. (2016 )
18. Is male authority absent in matrilineal society? Discuss. (2015)
19. How do the rules of descent and alliance in kinship differ from each other ? Illustrate. (2015)
20. Critically examine the functionalist views on the institution of family. How do those help us in understanding family in the present times? (2014)
21. What do you understand by institutionalization of ‘live-in – relationship’ ? (2014)
22. Analyse the contemporary trends in family with examples. (2013)
23. Is patriarchy a universal phenomenon ? Critically examine how does patriarchy affect sexual division of labour in societies. (2013)
24. Examine the emerging trends in marriage and family as a response to the charges in economic and social order. (2013)
25. Describe the importance of lineage and descent in kinship and family. (2012)
26. Show how family is distinct from household. (2012)
27. Write short note on Lineage and Descent from a sociological perspective (in about 150 words). (2011)
28. What you mean be marriage and family? Discuss the structural and functional changes in family in modern society. (2011)
29. Write short note on Kinship and Social Capital. (2010)
30. Discuss the emerging forms of marriage and family with examples from the West and the East. Can there be family without marriage? Examine. (2009)
31. Write short note on Industrialization and changes in the family’s functions. (2009)
32. Write short note: New trends in the types and forms of family in contemporary India. (2008)
33. Write short note: Changing structure of family. (2007)
34. Write short note: Nuclear family and industrial society. (2006)
35. Elucidate changing structure of family and marriage in modern society. (2005)
36. Write short note: Role of Family in Social Control. (2005)
37. Write short note: Gender Roles in Changing Structure of Family. (2004)
38. Discuss the meanings and significance of culture in Human Society. Critically bring out the role of Culture in the Development of personality. (2003)
39. Elaborate on the concepts of Family and Lineage. Discuss the relationship between Rules of descent and inheritance of property. (2003)
40. Distinguish between Sex and Gender issues with suitable examples. (2002)
41. In what way is the process of socialization helpful in the development of personality? Explain with suitable examples. (2002)
42. Write short note : Incest taboo. (2001)
43. Discuss the factors responsible for the changing structure of family in modern societies. (2000)
44. Social control is more a matter of conviction than that of coercion. Comment. Discuss the role of ideology in social control. (1999)
45. ‘Socialization is a process by which all of us acquire the culture that we transmit to the next generation’. Elaborate the statement and discuss its various stages. (1998)
46. Compare the role of custom as an agency of social control in primitive and modern industrial societies. (1996)
47. Write short note : Impact of changes in sexrole on family. (1996)
48. What has been the impact of industrialisation on family and kinship organisation ? Illustrate the significance of kinship organisation in the industrial societies. (1995)
49. Write short note : Primary group. (1995)
50. Write short note : Role of culture. (1995)
51. Explain the view that the nuclear family “fits” the needs of industrial society. Is it that the structure of nuclear family is the same in all industrial societies ? (1994 )
52. Give a brief account of the trends in sociological analysis of change in traditional family and kinship systems in the face of industrialisation. (1993)
53. Bring out the relationship between culture and personality. Discuss with examples the differences in personalities in the same culture. (1993)
54. Short note : Social consequences of increase in the rate of divorce. (1992)
55. Write short note : Social control. (1991)
56. Write short note : Socialization and personality. (1990 )
57. How do changes in the age and sex roles in the family affect the social structure itself ? (1989)
58. Write short note : Structural principles of kinship. (1988)
59. How does culture influence personality ? Can personality influence culture ? How ? (1985)
60. What are the agencies of social control? Which is the most effective one in a democratic society ? (1985)
61. Analyze scientific theory of culture.Will the crisis in culture in the contemporary society facilitate the emergence of new man ? (1984)
62. Discuss family as a basic and fundamental social institution. Do you think changing sex roles necessitate the replacement of family by another institution ? (1984)
63. Write short note : Change in sex roles and the socialisation of children. (1984)
FAQs on System of Kinship
Q. What is the significance of the system of kinship in sociological analysis?
Ans. The system of kinship holds immense significance in sociological analysis as it serves as a foundational social structure that influences familial relationships, social roles, and cultural practices within a society. Understanding the intricacies of kinship systems helps sociologists comprehend the dynamics of family structures, lineage, and the transmission of social, economic, and cultural values across generations.
Q. What are the different types of kinship systems found across various societies?
Ans. Kinship systems can vary significantly across different societies, with variations in terms of descent patterns, family organization, and marriage practices. Societies may follow matrilineal, patrilineal, or bilateral kinship systems, each with its unique implications for family dynamics, inheritance patterns, and social roles within the community.
Q. How does the study of the system of kinship contribute to understanding cultural practices and societal norms?
Ans. The study of the system of kinship offers insights into the cultural practices, rituals, and traditions that shape familial relationships and social structures within a society. By examining the roles and obligations associated with different kinship ties, sociologists can gain a deeper understanding of the ways in which cultural norms and values are transmitted, maintained, and reinforced within a community.
Q. What role does the system of kinship play in shaping social identities and group affiliations?
Ans. The system of kinship plays a crucial role in shaping social identities and group affiliations by defining roles, responsibilities, and expectations within families and communities. It contributes to the construction of individual and collective identities, influencing notions of belonging, inheritance, and the transmission of cultural heritage and values across generations.
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