Mock Test Paper - 1 (Sociology Optional Paper- I): Questions | Sociology Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

​Please read each of the following instructions before attempting the questions 

1. There are EIGHT questions divided in TWO SECTIONS and printed in ENGLISH. 
2. Candidate has to attempt FIVE questions in all. Questions no. 1 and 5 are compulsory and out of the remaining, any THREE are to be attempted choosing at least ONE question from each section. 
3. The number of marks carried by a question / part is indicated against it. 
4. 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. 
5. 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. Attempts of questions shall be counted in sequential order. 
6. 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 Question-cum-Answer (QCA) Booklet must be clearly struck off.

Time Allowed: Three Hours
Maximum Marks: 250

SECTION A

Q1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each: (10 × 5 = 50)
(a) Discuss the scope of Sociology as a discipline. How does it differ from Social Psychology?
(b) Examine the changing dynamics of caste as a social institution in contemporary India.
(c) (PYQ) Marriage as an institution has undergone a radical transformation from 'ritual' to 'commercial' in its outlook. Explain the factors behind this change.
(d) Analyze the role of social capital in strengthening democratic institutions.
(e) Explain Robert K. Merton’s concept of ‘latent’ and ‘manifest’ functions with suitable examples.

Q2.
(a) (PYQ) Sociology is the product of European enlightenment and renaissance. Critically examine this statement. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the relevance of qualitative methods in sociological research. Highlight their strengths and limitations. (20 marks)
(c) Define social stratification. Differentiate between class and status with examples. (10 marks)

Q3.
(a) Evaluate the role of visual sociology in understanding contemporary social issues. Provide recent examples. (20 marks)
(b) Critically analyze Max Weber’s theory of bureaucracy and its relevance in modern organizations. (20 marks)
(c) (PYQ) Critically explain the salient features of 'alienation' as propounded by Karl Marx. (10 marks)

Q4.
(a) Discuss the concept of ‘triangulation’ in sociological research. Explain its advantages and challenges. (20 marks)
(b) (PYQ) Define the concept of 'gig' economy and discuss its impact on labour market and workers' social security net. (20 marks)
(c) Assess the impact of globalization on traditional occupations in India. (10 marks)

SECTION B

Q5. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each: (10 × 5 = 50)
(a) Discuss the characteristics of ‘mechanical solidarity’ as proposed by Emile Durkheim.
(b) Explain Erving Goffman’s concept of ‘dramaturgy’ in social interactions.
(c) Analyze the differences in family structures between rural and urban India.
(d) Discuss the concept of ‘legitimacy’ in the context of Max Weber’s theory of authority.
(e) Examine the role of technology in shaping social movements in 2024-2025.

Q6.
(a) Discuss the impact of digital platforms on shaping public opinion in contemporary India. Highlight challenges. (20 marks)
(b) Analyze the challenges of integrating linguistic diversity in India’s education system. (20 marks)
(c) Differentiate between totemism and animism with examples. (10 marks)

Q7.
(a) Critically examine the relationship between globalization and cultural homogenization. (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the rise of new religious movements in India. What factors contribute to their growth? (20 marks)
(c) Explain the concept of ‘hegemony’ as proposed by Antonio Gramsci. (10 marks)

Q8.
(a) Analyze the shift towards child-centric families in urban India. What are its implications? (20 marks)
(b) Discuss the cyclical theory of social change. Highlight its limitations with examples. (20 marks)
(c) Critically evaluate Andre Gunder Frank’s dependency theory in the context of developing nations. (10 marks)