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 (2017)
SECTION – A
1. (a) Explain how sociology has emerged as a distinct discipline based on rationality and scientific tamper. (10 Marks)
(b)Examine ethnomethodological and phenomenological perspective as critique of positivism. (10 Marks)
(c) Illustrate with example the significance of variable in sociology research. (10 Marks)
(d)Critically analyse Talcott Parsons conception of pattern variable’. (10 Marks)(e) Can we equate ‘poverty’ with ‘poor living’ Elaborate your answer. (10 Marks)
2. (a) Discuss the changing equation of discipline of sociology with other social sciences. (20 Marks)
(b)Examine the basic postulates of positivism and post-positivism. (20 Marks)
(c) Elaborate the main tenets of interpretative perspective in sociology. (10 Marks)
3. (a) Discuss distinct sociological method adopted by Emile Durkheim in his study of ‘suicide’. (20 Marks)
(b)Analyse Marxian conception of historical materialism as a critique of Hegelian dialectics. (20 Marks)
(c) Examine epistemological foundation of qualitative methods of social research. (10 Marks)
4. (a) What is Weberian critique of Marxist notion of social stratification. (20 Marks)
(b)Examine gender. Ethnicity and race as major dimensions of social stratification. (20 Marks)
(c) How can one resolve the issue of reliability and validity in the context of sociological research on inequality ? (10 Marks)
SECTION – B
5. (a) What do you understand by informalisation of labour ‘? Write your answer with special reference to India. (10 Marks)
(b)Discuss the changing interface between state and civil society in post-independent India. (10 Marks)
(c) Give an assessment of Durkheimian notion of ‘sacred’ and ‘profane’ in sociology of religion. (10 Marks)
(d)Examine ‘patriarchal bargain ‘ as gendered division of work in contemporary India. (10 Marks)
(e) Assess the role of mass media as an agent of social change. (10 Marks)
6. (a) Trace the changing nature of organisation of work in capitalist society over the years. (20 Marks)
(b) What is new in ‘new social movement ‘? Elaborate your answer with special reference to India. (20 Marks)
(c) Examine the dynamics of pressure group in multi-party political system. (10 Marks)
7. (a) Examine the relationship between the contemporary trends in marriage and changing from family. (10 Marks)
(b) Discuss the regional variations of kinship system in Indian society. (20 Marks)
(c) Problematize the concept if secularism in the present context. (10 Marks)
8. (a) Examine any two theories of social change in detail society. (20 Marks)
(b)Critically analyse the role of science and technology in bringing about social change. (20 Marks)
(c) Elaborate on various types of religious practices prevalent in India society. (10 Marks)
Sociology Optional Question Paper-2 (2017)
SECTION – A
1. Write short answers with a sociological perspective on the following, in about 150 words each: (10×5=50) marks
(a) Write a critique of the structural and functional perspective used by M.N. Srinivas in the understanding of Indian society. 10 marks
(b) Which is more significant, the principle of ‘hierarchy’ or the principal of difference; in inter caste relations in the present day ? 10 marks
(c) What are the distinct features of islam as practised in India, and how have they changed over time ? 10 marks
(d) How have the struggles against untouchability changed their forms and perspective from Gandhian to Ambedkarite positions? 10 marks
(e) Write a short note a changing means of production and increased rural poverty. 10 marks
2. (a) The main objective of socio- religious movement during the colonial rule in India were reforming and synthesizing Hinduism. Write any two such important movements. (20 Marks)
(b) Discuss Yogendra singh’s thesis on Modernization of Indian Tradition. And evaluate its applicability in the present day context. (20 Marks)
(c) What are the changes in the cultural and structural aspects of the caste system since independence? (10 Marks)
3. (a) Indebtedness is one of the serious issues leading to farmers suicides Discuss reasons and suggest solutions. (20 Marks)
(b) Clarify the distinction between “household” and “family” and evaluate Whether joint families have completely disintegrated. (20 Marks)
(c) Compare the north Indian kinship System with the South Indian kinship system. (10 Marks)
4. (a) Explain the concepts of dominant caste’ and ‘ vote ‘ bank giving examples from specific regions. (20 Marks)
(b) What is the nature of religious change among tribal communities ? Illustrate with two examples from colonial and post independence times. (20 Marks)
(c) Compare the pressing problems of a dalit poor family living in an urban slum with a similar type of family living in a rural setting . (10 Marks)
SECTION – B
5. Write short answers with a sociological perspective on the following, in about 150 words each: (10×5=50) marks
(a) What are the reason for the escalation of violence against women in the public domain ?
(b) Write a note on Education and equality in India.
(c) Give an account of the problems relating to the “creamy layer”.
(d) Do you agree that the issue of child labour raises questions about and beyond the informal sector ? Give reasons.
(e) What are the Emerging concerns on women’s reproductive health ?
6. (a) Discuss some of the striking issues of development induced imbalances that need urgent attention. (20 Marks)
(b) Examine the impact of heritage tourism on urban socio-spatial patterns in India. (20 Marks)
(c) What are the causes and solutions for the low female sex-ratio in the DEMARU States of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal, and Gujarat ? (10 Marks)
7. (a) Despite gains from the women’s gender movement and states policy of women empowerment, gender equality is far from achieved. Identify two major challenges the prevent this goal from being reached. (20 Marks)
(b) To what extent does nation building depends on strengthening of pluralities in Indian society? (20 Marks)
(c) Explain the issue relating to ethnicity and sub-ethnicity. (10 Marks)
8. (a) What is cultural Revivalism ? Give some examples from performing arts , language dissemination and arts crafts in recen times. (20 Marks)
(b) What, according to you are the two fundamental axes of social discrimination in Indian society ? Are they changing ? (20 Marks)
(c) Why have we started using another category of tribes called the Particularly Vulnerable Groups (PVTGs) Why are they so called ? (10 Marks)
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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