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 (2015)
SECTION – A
1.Write short answers of the following in about 150 words each :
(a) Is sociology a science? Give reasons for your answer.
(b) Discuss the relevance of historical method in the study of society.
(c) What are variables? Discuss their role in experimental research.
(d) Which concepts did Weber use to analyse the forms of legitimate domination?
(e) “No society can either be completely open or completely closed.” comment.
2. (a) Discuss the role of Calvinist ethic in the development of Capitalism.
(b) Examine the problems of maintaining objectivity and value neutrality in social science research.
(c) “Self and society are twin-born ” Examine the statement of Mead.
3. (a) Why is random sampling said to have more reliability and validity in research?
(b) Differentiate between Maxian and Weberian theories of Social stratification.
(c) How had Enlightenment contributed to the emergence of sociology?
4. (a) “Non-positivist methodology is essential for understanding human behaviour.” Discuss.
(b) How is social equilibrium maintained in Parsonian framework?
(c) “Anomie is rooted in social structure.” Explain with reference to R.K. Merton’s contribution.
SECTION – B
5. Write short answers of the following in about 150 words each : 10 x 5=50 marks
(a) Distinguish between the social organization of work in feudal society and in capitalist society.
(b) “Ideology is crucial for social transformation in a democracy.” Discuss.
(c) Distinguish between sects and cults with illustrations.
(d) Is male authority absent in matrilineal society? Discuss.
(e) Explain the relevance of the idea of ‘cultural lag’ in understanding social change.
6. (a) “Education helps in perpetuating social and economic inequalities.” Critically examine the statement.
(b) Explain the conditions under which a collective action transforms into a social movement.
(c) How do the rules of descent and alliance in kinship differ from each other? Illustrate.
7. (a) Define Secularisation. What are its major dimensions in the modern world?
(b) the increasing importance of the tertiary sector has weakened the formal organization of work in recent times. Examine the statement .
(c) Caste ideology appears to have strengthened democracy .Comment.
8. (a) “Globalization involves deterritorialization .” Examine with reference to the nation-state.”
(b) Examine the dialectical relation between tradition and modernity in the study of social change.
(c) Elaborate the views of Durkheim on “The Elementary Forms of Religious Life”.
Sociology Optional Question Paper-2 (2015)
SECTION – A
1. Write short notes with a sociological perspective on the following in about 150 words each: 10 x 5=50 marks
A. Verrier Elwin’s views on freedom for the tribals.
B. Jyotirao Phule as an agrarian radical.
C. Louis Dumont’s perspective on Indian caste system .
D.How far Gandhiji was trusted by the untouchables.
E.Feminization of poverty.
2. A. Is caste system changing, weakening or disintegrating in India?
B. Give some of the important studies relating to the structural changes in the Indian family system.
C. Broadly compare the kinship system of North and South India.
3. A. Discuss the paradigm of modernization of Indian tradition in analyzing social change in India.
B.What is patriarchy? How does it affect the child socialization pattern in India?
C.Discuss the problems of elderly in India. What are the different perspectives to solve their problems?\
4. A. Discuss Marxist approach to the analysis of Indian nationalism.
B.What are the basic tenets of Hindu religion? Is Hinduism based on monotheism or polytheism?
C.Why is it necessary to implement PCPNDT Act in India?
SECTION – B
5 . Write short notes with a sociological perspective on the following in about 150 words each: 10 x 5=50 marks
(a) Important components of National Education Policy in India.
(b) Main objective of Tribal sub plan (TSP)
(c) Effect of displacement through development on the rural landless and marginal farmers .
(d) Issues relating to the informal labour market in urban India.
(e) How far Srinivas Sanskritization is modernizing force or traditionalizing force in understanding the changes in caste system?
6. (a) Discuss the impact of post- 1970 feminist movement on Indian middle class.
(b) What are the major concerns of ethnic identity and religious identity in India?
(c) How serious is the problem of trafficking against women and children in India?
7. (a) Discuss B.R. Ambedkar as a wise democrat.
(b) Discuss the main features of farmers’ movements in independent India.
(c) To what extent the Muslim Personal Law Board is in agreement with Islamic feminist agenda?
8. (a) Analyze Gandhi as a moralist, ascetic and man of action through his Hind Swaraj.
(b) Human development approach affirms that education and health –care growth are more important than economic growth. Discuss this issue in the light of postliberalized Indian society.
(c) Write a brief note on the Freedom of the Press.
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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