AIR 407 · CSE 2025 · Sociology II · 31 pages

Arunprakash M: Sociology II answer copy

8 answers by Arunprakash M, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1Critically examine the concept of sanskritisation with suitable illustrations. (10m)10 marks
  2. Q2Do you agree with the view of Andre Beteille that india’s villages are representative of Indian society’s basic civilizational values? Present a sociological overview. (10m)10 marks
  3. Q3Discuss the role of technology in agrarian change in India. (10m)10 marks
  4. Q4Write a short note on changing means of production and increased rural poverty. (10m)10 marks
  5. Q5Examine the features and relevance of Indological studies of Ghurye and Dumont. (20m)20 marks
  6. Q6Evaluate the efficiency of land reforms in India. Can the lacunae be addressed in Land Reforms 2.0? (20m) 7) "Villages" are regarded as authentic models of Indian society, thus making village studies becomes essential to comprehend "Indian values". Discuss the challenges faced during village studies.20 marks
  7. Q7Discuss the challenges during village studies in India. (20m)20 marks
  8. Q8Examine the factors responsible for the rural unrest in contemporary India.20 marks

The answers

Question 5 · 20 marks · 237 words written

Examine the features and relevance of Indological studies of Ghurye and Dumont. (20m)

Opening · a definition

Indology focussed on studying Indian society in ways & methods that are unique to India, through analysis of ancient scriptures.

Body · points

Features of Indological studies of Ghurye & Dumont

  1. Caste
  • They assert that Caste is an important social institution that shapes the social relationships.
  • Ghurye gives diffusionist explanation of caste, that it spread from Ganga region to other areas of India.

Relevance:

  1. Existence of caste hierarchy, still in rural areas. Eg: Differential land access.
  2. Prevalance of Endogamy.

But, occupation is not ascriptive anymore.

  1. Religion:
  • Religion is an important aspect of Culture & thus studying Hindu culture is essential to understand Indian Culture.
  • Religion is dynamic & adaptive

Relevance:

  1. India is still more spiritual nation. Eg: Rising religious worship places.

  2. Flexibility of religion Eg: Allowing multi religious syncretism like food habit change. Issue: Existence of multiple religious beliefs; not just Hindu society

  3. Tribe:

  • Tribes are backward Hindus.
  • So there is need for

assimilation approach, inculcating Hindu values into Tribes. Relevance: Majority of tribes follow Hindu culture. Eg: Idol worship. Issue: Assimilation may result in Cultural erosion of tribes, thus diminishing India's cultural diversity.

  1. Village

Close · a summary

Villages are not self sufficient so there existed Village Exogamy. Relevance: Rising inter dependance of villages due to Globalisation & Industrialisation.

Indological studies are still relevant to an extent, but yet they were largely mere book views than comprehensive field studies.