UPSC CSE 1979 Sociology Optional PYQs

PAPER - I

1. Substantiate, citing literature, the view that analysis of social stability and change has been the main concern of classical sociologists. Or Explain the view that the social system is a basic conceptual model useful in understanding social organization. 
2. Explain as to why and how Durkheim described social reality to the group, not to the individual. 
3. Taking clue from Weber's analysis of the role of Calvinist ethics in the rise of mature capitalism, discuss the relative impact of 
• (a) economic conditions, and 
• (b) values and ideas, on social change. 
4. The personality is formed, maintained and changed as the socialization process moves along.” Explain.
5. What functions does social conflict perform? Explain the nature of social conflict in the developing countries today. 
6. Write the short notes on any two of the following: 
• (a) Pareto on social equilibrium. 
• (b) Power and legitimacy. 
• (c) Role-set and role conflict. 
• (d) Totemism and social solidarity. 
7. Discuss the Marxian theory of class as criticized by Weber. 
8. What do you mean by empiricism? Examine the significance of empirical confirmation in building sociological theory. 
9. “Participant observation in many situations is nothing more than a case study.” Comment.
10. Explain the basic features of the ex post facto research design and assess its role in sociological research. 
11. Write notes on any two of the following: 
• (a) Reliability and validity. 
• (b) Verstehen method.
• (c) Sources of hypothesis. 
• (d) Survey research.

PAPER - II

1. Bring out the unity and diversity in the society and culture in India. Or  Describe the different approaches to the study of Indian society and examine fully the utility of any one of them. 
2. Discuss the impact of religious, linguistic, caste and tribal groups on the nation building process in India. 
3. Distinguish between tribe and caste bringing out the implications of the difference for settlement pattern and community living. 
4. Enumerate and explain the factors conducive to joint family and comment on its prevalence/disappearance in rural India. 
5. Enumerate the forces affecting the jajmani system and examine their impact on the community aspect of the village. 
6. Examine whether the different centres of political power in India are successful as democratic institutions. 
7. Define social stratification and discuss the principles of stratification in the traditional hierarchy. 
8. Examine the changing stratification system in modern India in relation to the issues of equality and social justice. 
9. Bring out the impact of education on social mobility and equality with special reference to the Scheduled castes. 
10. Define social change and assess the role of legislative measures in bringing about social change in India. 
11. Write short notes on any two of the following: 
• (a) Social movements in post-independence India. 
• (b) Industrialisation and social change in India. 
• (c) Role of religion in the traditional Indian society. 
• (d) Unintended consequences of planned social change in India.  

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