Sociology is one of the most popular optional subjects in the UPSC Civil Services Exam. The Sociology Optional Syllabus for UPSC IAS Mains Exam is as follows:
Functionalism is a prominent theoretical perspective in sociology that attempts to explain social phenomena in terms of the roles they perform within a society. Conceptually, it views society as a complex system where all parts work together to promote solidarity and stability.
Population sociology, an integral branch of sociology, scrutinizes the interrelationship between population dynamics and social structures. It involves the systematic study of population size, composition, and distribution, and how they are influenced by birth, death, migration, and aging
The case study method is typically used in social sciences, such as anthropology, sociology, and psychology, to explore real-life, complex, multifaceted phenomena within their context. It often involves a blend of various data collection techniques, including interviews, observations, and document analysis.
Ethnography, as a research approach, holds a unique position within the social sciences. It provides researchers with a profound understanding of human behavior, cultural practices, and social dynamics.