UPSC Sociology Optional Syllabus
1. The Discipline of Sociology
- Introduction to sociology as a social science
- Scope and nature of sociology
- Relationship between sociology and other social sciences
2. Sociology as a Science
- Understanding the scientific method in sociology
- Positivist and interpretive approaches in sociology
- Critiques of sociology as a science
3. Research Methods & Analysis
- Introduction to research methods in sociology
- Qualitative and quantitative research methods
- Data collection techniques and analysis
- Ethical considerations in sociological research
4. Sociological Thinkers
- Classical sociological theories (Marx, Durkheim, Weber)
- Contemporary sociological theories (Functionalism, Conflict theory, Symbolic interactionism)
- Contributions of key sociological thinkers
5. Social Stratification and Mobility
- Concepts of social stratification and social inequality
- Theories of social stratification (Marxist, Weberian, Functionalist)
- Social mobility and its types (vertical, horizontal, intergenerational, intragenerational)
6. Work and Economic Life
- Sociological perspectives on work and occupations
- Division of labor and its impact on society
- Industrialization and its effects on work
- Globalization and changing patterns of work
7. Politics and Society
- Relationship between politics and society
- Political systems and their impact on society
- Power, authority, and legitimacy in politics
- Social movements and political participation
8. Religion and Society
- Role and functions of religion in society
- Religious beliefs, rituals, and practices
- Secularization and religious diversity
- Religion and social change
9. Family, Marriage & Kinship
- Changing patterns of family and marriage
- Theoretical perspectives on family and kinship
- Gender roles and family dynamics
- Kinship systems and their variations across societies
10. Social Change in Modern Society
- Factors influencing social change
- Theories of social change (evolutionary, cyclical, functionalist)
- Modernization and social change
- Social change and globalization
11. Introducing Indian Society
- Historical background of Indian society
- Diversity and unity in Indian society
- Caste, class, and gender in Indian society
- Social institutions in India
12. Social Structure
- Concepts of social structure and social organization
- Social roles and status
- Social groups and their types (primary, secondary, reference groups)
- Social networks and their significance
13. Systems of Kinship in India
- Types of kinship systems (unilineal, bilateral, ambilineal)
- Kinship terminology and descent groups
- Marriage patterns and practices in India
- Family, kinship, and caste in Indian society
14. Visions of Social Change in India
- Social reform movements in modern India
- Social change and development in post-independence India
- Challenges and prospects of social change in India
- Role of government and civil society in promoting social change
15. Rural and Agrarian Transformation in India
- Agrarian structure and land reforms in India
- Rural economy and agricultural practices
- Rural development policies and programs
- Agrarian distress and rural livelihoods
16. Industrialization and Urbanisation in India
- Industrial growth and urbanization trends in India
- Urbanization and its impact on society
- Urban poverty and slums
- Urban planning and sustainable development
17. Social Movements in Modern India
- Social movements and their types
- Major social movements in India (Dalit, Tribal, Women's movements)
- Role of social movements in social change
- Challenges and limitations of social movements
18. Population Dynamics
- Population growth and distribution in India
- Demographic transition and its implications
- Population policies and family planning programs
- Population aging and its social consequences
19. Challenges of Social Transformation
- Social inequalities and exclusions in India
- Gender inequality and women's empowerment
- Poverty, unemployment, and social welfare policies
- Environmental degradation and sustainable development
20. Previous Year Questions with Essays: Sociology Optional
- Review and analysis of previous year questions in UPSC Sociology Optional
- Essay writing practice on sociological topics
- Tips and strategies for answering sociology optional questions
Note: This syllabus is not exhaustive and may be subject to updates and changes by the UPSC. It is advisable to refer to the official UPSC website and consult relevant study materials for the most updated syllabus and preparation.
This course is helpful for the following exams: UPSC