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 (2022)
SECTION – A
1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
a) Delimit the scope of sociology in relation to other social sciences.
b) How does a researcher achieve objectivity in interpretative research?
c) The difference between information and data in social science is subtle. Comment.
d) Durkhiem argued that society is more than the sum of individual acts. Discuss.
e) How do sociologists construct gender in their analysis on social inequality?
2. a) What aspects of Enlightenment do you think paved way for the emergence of sociology ? Elaborate.
b) Explain the different types of non- probability sampling techniques .Bring out the conditions of their usage with appropriate examples.
c) Discuss social mobility in open and closed system.
3. a) What are the shortfalls of positivist philosophy that gave rise to the non-positivist methods of studying social reality ?
b) Critically examine how Durkheim and Merton explicate Anomie.
c) Suggest measures to minimize the influence of the researchers in process of collecting data through focus group discussion.
4. a) What characterizes degradation of work in capitalist society according to Marx ?
b) Social stratification is claimed to contribute to maintenance of social order and stability in society. Critically assess.
c) What is reliability ? Explain the different tests available to social science researcher to establish reliability.
SECTION – B
5. Write short answers of following questions in about 150 words each:
a) Critically examine the relevance of Durkheim’s views on religion in contemporary society.
b) Discuss various theoretical perspectives on family.
c) Explain the implications of feminization of work in the developing societies.
d) Write a note on global trends of secularization.
e)Trace the trajectory of development perspectives on social change.
6. a) According to Mead the idea of self develops when the individual becomes selfconscious.Explain.
b) Analyse the nature of transition from ideology to identity politics in India.
c) How do little tradition and great tradition coexist in contemporary Indian society ?
7. a) Critically analyse Parsons views on society as a social system.
b) Discuss how “environmentalism” can be explained with new social movements approach.
c) Illustrate with examples the role of pressure groups in the formulation of social policies.
8. a) Sociologists argue for democratization of science and technology for inclusive development. Comment.
b) Are traditional social institutions getting weakend as agents of social change in the contemporary society ? Substantiate.
c) How do you understand the relationship between patriarchy and social development ?
Sociology Optional Question Paper-2 (2022)
SECTION – A
1. Write short answers, with a sociological perspective, on the following questions in about 150 words each:
a) Elaborate on M.N. Srinivas’s structural functionalist approach to the study of Indian society.
b) Do you agree that the agrarian class structure in India is changing ?Justify your answer with illustrations.
c) Elucidate the challenges of integration for tribal communities in india.
d) In the context of changing Indian society, how do you view Andre Beteille’s conceptions of harmonic and disharmonic social structures ?
e) Explain Leela Dube’s concept of “Seed and Earth”.
2. a) Critically examine GS Ghurye’s Indological approach to the understanding of Indian society.
b) Elaborate on changing nature of caste system with suitable illustrations.
c) Discuss the problem of religious minorities in India and suggest measures to solve them.
3. a) Critically examine Yogendra Singh’s thesis on ‘Modernization of Indian Traditoion’.
b) Discuss the material basis of patriarchy as an ideological system.
c) Explain the different forms of untouchability in India.
4. a) Examine the social background of growth of indian nationalism.
b) Explain how land reforms brought about desired agrarian transformation.
c) Discuss the challenges during village studies in India.
Section B
5. Write short answers, with a sociological perspective, on the following questions in about 150 words each:
a) Discuss Law as an important instrument for women’s empowerment.
b) Examine different understandings of secularization in india?
c) How do you view the growth of informal sector in india ?
d) Discuss the role of pressure groups in strengthening democracy.
e) What role do co-operatives plays in poverty alleviation in rural India ?
6. a) Examine whether rural bondage still continues to be a social reality. Give your argument .
b) Define ethnicity . Discuss the factors responsible for the growth of ethenic movements in India.
c) Discuss the changing nature of structure of political elites.
7. a) “Instead of promoting equality in society , the present system of education itself has contributed to increased socio economic disparities” Comment .
b) Discuss recent trends in the structure of migration .
c) Discuss different forms of deprivation associated with slums.
8. a) Bring out the various issues involved in Dalit movements in India.
b) Critically examine the dialectics between ‘development and environment’.
c) Discuss the changing nature of industrial working class.
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.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
