Sociology Optional Previous Year Papers hold immense value for candidates preparing for competitive exams, especially the Civil Services Examination. These papers, curated from past years’ question papers, offer aspirants a profound understanding of the exam’s structure, question types, and complexity level. They serve as a practical tool for refining one’s sociological knowledge, critical analysis, and time management abilities. By solving these papers, candidates can acquaint themselves with the intricacies of sociology as a subject and cultivate the assurance necessary to excel in the examination. Moreover, the scrutiny and examination of previous year papers aid aspirants in identifying pertinent topics, prioritizing their study material, and customizing their preparation to align with the specific demands of the Sociology Optional paper.
Question Paper Specific Instructions
- Please read each of the following instructions carefully before attempting questions :
- There are EIGHT questions divided in two SECTIONS and printed both in HINDI and in ENGLISH.
- Candidate has to attempt FIVE questions in all.
- Questions no. 1 and 5 are compulsory and out of the remaining, THREE are to be attempted choosing at least ONE from each section.
- The number of marks carried by a question / part is indicated against it.
- Answers must be written in the medium authorized in the Admission Certificate which must be stated clearly on the cover of this Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet in the space provided. No marks will be given for answers written in a medium other than the authorized one.
- Word limit in questions, wherever specified, should be adhered to.
- Illustrate your answers with suitable sketches, maps and diagrams. These shall be drawn in the space provided for answering the question itself.
- Attempts of questions shall be counted in chronological order. Unless struck off, attempt of a question shall be counted even if attempted partly. Any page or portion of the page left blank in the answer book must be clearly struck off.
Sociology Optional Question Paper-1 (2014)
SECTION – A
1. Write short answers of the following in about 150 words each:
(a) How is objectivity different from value neutrality? Discuss with reference to Weber’s views on methodology.
(b) How did the emergence of industrial society change the family life in Western Europe?
(c) How is sociological approach to human action different from that of psychological approach?
(d) In what way biographies could be used to study social life?
(e) How can we use reference group theory to understand fashion in society?
2. (a) Which research technique would be most suitable for the study of consumer behavior and its social correlates? Explain.
(b) Identify the similarities and differences between Marx’s theory of ‘alienation’ and Durkheim’s theory of ‘anomie’
(c) How could one use Merton’s concept of deviance to understand the traffic problem in urban India?
3. (a) What do you understand by gender? How does it shape ‘male’ identity?
(b) “According to Max Weber, ‘class’ and ‘status’ are two different dimensions of power”. Discuss
(c) Using Merton’s concepts of ‘manifest’ and ‘latent’ functions, explain the persistence of corruption in Indian society.
4. (a) How does Weber use the notion of ‘ideal types’ in his theory of bureaucracy?
(c) Using Mead’s theory of symbolic interactionism, discuss the stages in the formation of gender identity.
SECTION – B
5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
(a) For Marx, class divisions are outcomes of ‘exploitation’ Discuss.
(b) What are the distinctive features of social organization of work in slave society?
(c) Discuss T. H. Marshall’s views on citizenship
(d) Distinguish between Political Parties and Pressure Groups.
(e) “According to Durkheim, the essence of religion in modern society is the same as religion in primitive society”. Comment.
6. (a) “Power is not a zero-sum game.” Discuss with reference to Weber’s and Parsons’ views.
(b) Critically examine the functionalist views on the institution of family. How do those-help us in understanding family in the present times?
(c) What do you understand by institutionalization of ‘live-in relationship’?
7. (a) How is religious revivalism different from communalism? Elaborate with suitable examples from the India context.
(b) Education is often viewed as an agency of social change. However, in reality it could also reinforce inequalities and conservatism. Discuss.
(c) According to Marx, capitalism transforms even the personal relationships between men and women. Critically examine with illustrations from the contemporary India context.
8. (a) How is the increasing use of technology is changing the status of women in Indian society?
(b) Write a short essay on the Latin American perspective on ‘dependency’
(c) What do you understand by social movement? How has the mobilization by Scheduled Castes helped them in constructing a new identity?
Sociology Optional Question Paper-2 (2014)
SECTION – A
1. Write short notes with a sociological perspective on the following in about:
(a) Gandhi’s efforts on communal harmony
(b) Modernization of Indian traditions
(c) Types of kinship systems in India
(d) Features of caste system
(e) G. S. Ghurye’s Indological approach to understand society in India
2. (a) Analyse the different views on integration and autonomy of tribes in India.
(b) Discuss the social background of Indian nationalism.
(c) Define Patriarchy. How does it impact the overall entitlement of girl child in India?
3. (a) Give a sociological analysis of the problems of migrant urban poor.
(b) Discuss the problems of religious minorities in India.
(c) Write some of the important social reforms in India for the removal of untouchability.
4. (a) Discuss the status of women among the emerging urban middle class.
(b) Describe the impact of land reforms on the peasants of Indian society.
(c) What is the idea of ‘Indian village’ Explain.
SECTION – B
5. Write short notes with a sociological perspective on the following in about 150 words each:
(a) Trends of Infant Mortality Rate among Females
(b) Domestic Violence Act, 2005
(c) Dynamics of Contemporary Dalit movements
(d) Impact of privatization on educational disparities
(e) Rural landless labourers and development induced displacement
6. (a) What are the main features of the second wave of Women’s movement in the India context?
(b) Domestic Violence Act, 2005
(c) Dynamics of Contemporary Dalit movements
(d) Impact of privatization on education disparities
(e) Rural landless labourers and development induced displacement
7. (a) What are the main features of the second wave of Women’s movement in the Indian context?
(b) Discuss the ‘Chipko movement’ as an example of eco-feminism.
(c) Discuss the impact of globalization on the workers in the Informal sector.
8. (a) What are the demographic projections for the ageing population (60+) for the next decade? What are the implications for formulating policy for them?
(b) What are the possible underlying causes of the spurt of increased violence against women in public spaces in the last decade?
(c) How do caste and class come together in creating the category of extreme poor?
9. (a) ‘Manu caste conflicts are between castes which are close to each other on the hierarchical scale.’ Give a sociological explanation for this phenomenon.
(b) ‘Tribal conflicts based on ethnic differences often camouflage a struggle for political and economic advantage.’ Substantiate with examples.
(c) Who are the elites? Discuss their roles in bringing social transformation.
FAQs
Q: What is the significance of the sociology optional paper in UPSC examinations?
Ans. The sociology optional paper in the UPSC examinations allows candidates to showcase their understanding of societal structures, dynamics, and changes, thereby enabling them to demonstrate their analytical and critical thinking skills.
Q: How can one prepare effectively for the sociology optional paper?
Ans. Effective preparation for the sociology optional paper involves a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental sociological theories, concepts, and their practical application. It is also essential to practice answer writing and analyze previous year question papers.
Q: What are the key components of the sociology optional syllabus for the UPSC examination?
Ans. The sociology optional syllabus for the UPSC examination generally covers topics such as the sociological thinkers, social structure, social change, and contemporary social issues. It includes various theories and perspectives related to sociology.
Q: Is it necessary to cover the entire sociology optional syllabus for the UPSC examination?
Ans. While it is beneficial to have a comprehensive understanding of the entire syllabus, focusing on core topics, key thinkers, and contemporary social issues is crucial to scoring well in the sociology optional paper of the UPSC examination.
Q: What are the advantages of choosing sociology as an optional subject for the UPSC examination?
Ans. Opting for sociology as an optional subject can provide candidates with a deeper understanding of societal dynamics, which can be beneficial in comprehending the various socio-political issues that are often a part of the UPSC examination.
Q: How can one utilize sociology as an optional subject to enhance overall UPSC preparation?
Ans. Integrating sociological perspectives and theories with current affairs and general studies can help candidates develop a holistic approach to analyzing and understanding complex socio-political issues, thereby enhancing their overall UPSC preparation.
Q: What are some recommended books for sociology optional in the UPSC examination?
Ans. Some recommended books for sociology optional in the UPSC examination include “Sociology: Themes and Perspectives” by Haralambos and Holborn, “Sociology: Principles of Sociology with an Introduction to Social Thoughts” by C.N. Shankar Rao, and “Indian Society: Themes and Social Issues” by Nadeem Hasnain.
Q: Are there any specific resources or study materials that can complement the recommended books for sociology optional in the UPSC examination?
Ans. Utilizing additional study materials such as UPSC-specific sociology optional guides, question banks, and contemporary sociological journals can provide candidates with a more comprehensive understanding of the subject, thereby enhancing their preparation.
Q: How can previous year question papers for sociology optional benefit candidates preparing for the UPSC examination?
Ans. Previous year question papers for sociology optional can provide candidates with insights into the examination pattern, important topics, and the level of depth required in their answers, thereby helping them tailor their preparation strategies accordingly.
Q: Where can candidates access sociology optional previous year question papers for the UPSC examination?
Ans. Sociology optional previous year question papers for the UPSC examination are often available on various online platforms, UPSC-related forums, and educational websites. Candidates can also find them in certain comprehensive UPSC preparation books and materials.
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