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 (2018)
SECTION – A
1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each: 10 x 5 = 50 Marks
(a) The focal point of sociology rests on interaction. How do you distinguish it from common sense? 10 Marks
(b) Distinguish between fact and value in Weber’s Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism. 10 Marks
(c) Do you think T and Me are central terms in Mead’s work. 10 Marks
(d) What is the difference between natural and social inequality examples from caste and class dimensions. 10 Marks
(e) What are the new forms of family in developed societies? Discuss. 10 Marks
2. (a) Is non-positivist methodology scientific? Illustrate.
(b) Explain Durkheim’s basic arguments on suicide. Can you analyse high suicide rates of contemporary Indian society with Durkheim’s theory?
(c) Evaluate if social stratification is functional for society.
3. (a) Does the collapse of functionalism and bankruptcy of Marxism coincide with the rupture of modernity? Discuss.
(b) Define patriarchy. How does patriarchy manifest in interpersonal relations?
(c) What is the difference between anomie in Merton and Durkheim? Explain.
4. (a) According to Marx, how are human beings alienated from their human potential and what does he suggest to change this?
(b) Schooling does not ensure upward mobility of all members of this society. Discuss with reference in class societies.
(c) Discuss the challenges thrown by religious revivalism to a secular nation-state.
SECTION – B
5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each: 10 x 5 = 50 Marks
(a) Is the theory of cultural lag valid in present times? Discuss.
(b) Are social movements primordial in means and progressive in agenda? Explain.
(c) Does scientific method make Sociology a Science? Illustrate your answer with Durkheim’s method .
(d) Distinguish between qualitative techniques of data collection with suitable examples from Indian society.
(e) In social mobility possible in closed systems of stratification ? Illustrate from research work.
6. (a) Discuss the nature of social organization of work in capitalist society with reference to the Limits of the working day.
(b) Distinguish between family and household with reference to the concept of development of the household.
(c) Explain with examples, the explanatory and exploratory designs of social research.
7. (a) How can Parsons’ AGIL framework be used to analyse key problems is a society? Discuss.
(b) What is labour commitment? Discuss it with reference to studies of manufacturing industry.
(c) What, according to Pareto, are the basic characteristics of elites? Discuss
8. (a) “The sociological imagination enables us to grasp SOCIOLOGY and biography and the relationship between the two in society.” – C.W.Mills . Explain.
(b) What is sects? Discuss their role in multi-religious societies with empirical examples.
(c) In what way did Durkheim perceive religion as functional to society?
Sociology Optional Question Paper-2 (2018)
SECTION – A
1. Write short answers with a sociological perspective of the following questions in about 150 words each.
(a) Write a note on G.S.Ghurye’s Indological perspective of understanding Indian society.
(b) Give a critical analysis of Andre Beteille’s study of Tanjore village.
(c) Media is the fourth pillar of democracy. Discuss.
(d) Write a note on the changing roles of middle-class women in India.
(e) Discuss the growth of religious sects in India.
2. (a) Analyse A.R. Desai’s views on India’s path of development.
(b) Examine sociological dynamics of Champaran Peasant Movement in colonial India.
(c) How do the recommendations of Swaminathan Commissions (2004-2006) ensure food and nutrition security for the Indian masses?
3. (a) What do you understand by discrete castes and muddled hierarchies? Substantiate your answer with suitable illustrations.
(b) Discuss development induced displacement in the context of tribal uprising in India. Substantiate your answer with any one detailed illustration from India.
(c) Illustrate the importance of ‘Kanyadaan’ and ‘Kulavadhu’ in changing institution of marriage and family.
4. (a) How has the New Economic Policy (1991) affected the lifestyle and life changed in new middle class in India.
(b) Write a critical narrative on the concerns of religious minorities in India.
(c) Discuss the issues relating to the entitlement of transgender in Indian society.
SECTION – B
5. Write short answers, with a sociological perspective of the following questions in about 150 words each.
(a) Elaborate the concept of constitutional morality as given by B.R.Ambedkar.
(b) Construct a sociological narrative on the increasing trend of child abuse in India.
(c) Explain the dynamics of neo-farmers movement in contemporary India.
(d) Assess the role of the State in promoting education of girl child.
(e) Elaborate the ‘Me Too’ Movement and its impact in India.
6. (a) How do you relate the growth of development of metropoles and its impact on the mental and social life of people in India.
(b) Has Green Revolution led to the formation of new power elite in rural India? Elaborate your answer.
(c) Write a note on Basic Services to Urban Poet (BSUP) and Integrated Housing and Slum Development (IHSD) programme provided for the urban poor.
7. (a) Has caste system hindered democracy and adult franchise in India. Discuss.
(b) Elaborate various forms of Dalit assertions in contemporary India? Discuss.
(c) With increase in education and economic development is Indian society becoming more secular.
8. (a) What are the issues relating to male migration and its impact on birth rate? Does it necessarily result in skewed sex ratio?
(b) Western patriarchy which surrenders feminine principles is the development project in India. Do you agree with this view Why?
(c) Assess the impact of ban on ‘Triple Talak’ on marriage and divorce among the Muslim community in India.
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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