SOCIOLOGY A BLEND OF THEORY AND APPLICATION Dr. Surendra Kumar Singh: Mob No.

9810571079, 9868602770 Sociology, a scientific study of society is a well established discipline in academics. Its theoretical, methodological and conceptual perspectives are systematic and very rich in literature. In UPSC, Sociology as an optional paper has remarkably done very good in almost every year. Though having initiation in Sociology is an added advantage, the candidates who have opted it despite not being initiated academically have done very well. The nature of the discipline is such that any candidate with analytical approach will do quite good and Sociology will not be a cause of rejection. The new syllabus begins with emergence of modernity in Europe and the consequent changes brought therein and how within this light sociology as a discipline found its origin and development. At the same time the endeavour to make sociology akin to science not only differentiates it form common-sense but also establishes sociology as a scientific discipline. Thus, Unit-2 makes us analyse in this light the emergence of positivism, which though provides a unique dimension in this direction. The further development of sociology also generates debate pertaining to it. The heart and soul of Sociology (Paper-I) particularly lies in Unit -4, the sociological thinkers, who not only make us analyse different dimensions analytically but also help in understanding almost all the remaining units in Paper-I along with its applicability in Paper-II. As a candidate you are advised not only to understand the different views of thinkers holistically but also to know the bases on which these thinkers built up their theoretical views. It will help you approach almost all those questions which are not direct. At the same time candidates are also required to understand the corollaries related to the different dimensions of Unit-4, for which not only analytical brain but integrative approach is required, for e.g., last year the questions like 'cybernetic hierarchy of control' and 'serendipity' were asked, which are related to Unit 4, similarly while dealing with different Units and the sub-units we also need to keep this fact in mind, e.g., in 2009 the question on Wallerstein's 'World System Theory' was related to Theory of Dependency (Unit 10), and the question on Elton Mayo was well placed in the context of Works and Economic Life (Units-6). The rest of the units, thus need only conceptual clarity and knowing the context. The inter-linkage between the different units particularly with Unit-4 has to be comfortably dealt with and then other thinkers or sociological views are to be brought keeping the need disposition of the question in mind. The second paper related to Indian Sociology plays an important contributor in fetching good marks. If approached well, I think that it works like mathematics. The second paper's content has 3 dimensions, ie. (A) Indian society, its perspectives and impact of colonial rule. (B) The different facets of Indian social structure. (C) The changes and challenges of social transformation However, the inter-linkage between Part B & C needs to be understood along with continuity and change & change and continuity. Though most of the units & sub-units seem to be gerneralistic in nature, we should not forget that Indian Sociology is equally rich in concepts, theories, and analysis. Thus, the parameters on which questions are asked require a keen observation and applicability. Empirical examples are to be quoted for substantiating your analysis and not other way around. A very good understanding and analysis of Paper-II will help the candidate in tackling the issues of social relevance in General Studies. An integrative, holistic knowledge of Paper-II will fetch you good marks in Essay, for which you need not worry as every year there are certain essays asked from social dimension in which Sociology, as an optional plays a crucial role. The knowledge of sociology develops the perspective to see the society in which we live in a holistic manner and thus your framing of answers not only in Main but also in interview becomes impressive. At the same time, the Paper - I in Prelim, particularly development, inclusion, poverty, sustainable development, ecological dimensions, Panchayati raj are the contents of Sociology Paper - II, which makes you hit the required target comfortably. I think that, if the newly proposed changes (though not confirmed by any official recommendation) become reality, almost every candidate of UPSC would require to know the social dimensions and perspectives of Sociology. We should also not forget that as an optional Sociology deals with such issues, a civil servant requires to know once inducted into service. A balanced blend of conceptual clarity, theoretical dimension, holicism and analysis will help the candidate to secure success not only in UPSC, but also in discharging the responsibilities as a civil servant during the tenure of the service. Note:- Dr. Surendra Kumar Singh is an alumni of Delhi University and a renowned faculty, teaching Sociology to the IAS Aspirants for last 15 years.