UPSC Mains 2017 Anthropology Optional Paper I questions

25 questions from the Civil Services (Main) Examination 2017. Official UPSC paper (PDF) · All Anthropology Optional PYQs

1. Bilineal and bilateral descents

2. Difference between religion and magic

3. Basic tenets of structural-functionalism

4. Non-verbal communication

5. Discuss the development of the concept of culture in Anthropology.

   20 marks

6. Elucidate the determinants of Kinship terminology.

   15 marks

7. Discuss the different forms of preferential marriage with suitable examples from tribal societies in India.

   15 marks

8. Discuss the different traditional forms of religion in tribal societies.

   20 marks

9. Mention the characteristic features of band with suitable examples.

10. With the help of appropriate examples, explain the various forms of exchange system.

    15 marks

11. Explain Ruth Benedict's patterns of culture.

    20 marks

12. Elucidate the basic characteristics of anthropological fieldwork methods.

    15 marks

13. Critically examine the Stewardian view of neo-evolutionism.

    15 marks

14. Hardy-Weinberg law

15. Salient features of Mesolithic culture

16. Concept of race

17. Anthropology and designing of equipments

18. Define Anthropology. Describe the major branches of Anthropology elaborating on any one branch.

    20 marks

19. Bring out the comparative anatomical features of man and apes. Discuss their evolutionary significance.

    15 marks

20. What are dating methods? Discuss one absolute method and one relative method in detail.

    15 marks

21. Briefly describe the various methods used in the genetic study of man.

    20 marks

22. Discuss the responses and acclimatization to high altitude stresses.

    15 marks

23. Describe the biological and socio-ecological factors affecting fertility and mortality.

    15 marks

24. What are the methods of personal identification? Critically examine how personal identification helps in criminal investigations.

    20 marks

25. Describe the various methods of studying growth highlighting their merits and demerits.

    15 marks