PAPER 1 

SECTION A 
 
 
Q1. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each : 10 x 5 = 50 
 

a. The relationship between Linguistics and Social-Cultural anthropology 10 

b. Cultural Relativism 10 
c. Pastoralism in India 10 
d. Cultural Materialism 10 
e. Relative Dating Methods 10  

Q2.(a) Discuss the evolutionary significance of bipedalism and erect posture 

20 

(b) How did Radcliffe-Brown and Levi-strauss study kinship in terms of social structure ? 
15 

(c) Elucidate Mesolithic culture and associated rock-art with examples from India. 
15  
 
Q3.(a) Discuss social stratification according to any three major approaches. 
20 
   
(b) “Europeans are closer Neanderthals.” Critically discuss in view of the African origin of 
humankind. 15   
 
(c) Discuss briefly the major traditions in the Upper Palaeolithic culture of Europe. 
15   

Q4. (a ) With reference to the somatoscopic and morphometric characteristics commonly 

used for racial classification, make critical comments as to whether ‘Race’ is a valid concept. 
20   

(b) Critically explain anthropological approaches to religion. 15   

( c ) Differentiate between transient and balanced genetic polymorphism. Illustrate your 

answer with suitable examples from human populations. 15   

 
 SECTION B 
 

Q5. Write notes on the following in about 150 words each : 

(a) Adaptive primate radiation 10 

(b) Implications of mutation in evolution 10  

(c) Olduvai Gorge 10 

 
(d) Anthropological inputs in facial reconstruction 10 
 
(e) Genetico-environmental factors affecting human growth 10 
 
 
Q6. ( a) Examine critically the contributions of Victor Turner and Clifford Geertz in 
anthropology 20 
 
( b ) “Human adaptations are always bio-cultural in nature.” Discuss with reference to human 
adaptation to high-altitude climate 15   
 
( c ) Discuss the methods of study of human growth with their merits and demerits. 15 
 
Q7. ( a ) Discuss how indigenous people encounter globalization. 20 
  
( b ) “Applied human genetics has come to touch every sphere of human life.” Discuss in 
light of recent advances in molecular anthropology. 15 
 
( c ) Evaluate participant observation in producing anthropological knowledge. 15   
 

Q8. ( a ) Discuss with examples the Megalithic culture of India in the archaeological context. 
20   

( b ) Discuss the bio-cultural factors influencing fertility in light of the relationship between 
fecundity and fertility. 15  

( c ) Discuss phenomenology as a research method in anthropological studies. 15 

 
 
UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPIC WISE UPSC QUESTIONS (1985-2018)

SYLLABUS PREVIOUS YEAR QUESTIONS

• Define Anthropology. Describe the major branches of
Anthropology elaborating on any one branch.(2017)
1.1 Meaning, scope and
development of • Critically examine the role of anthropology in Contemporary
Anthropology. India. (15Marks 2014)

• Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10X5=50

(a) The Relevance of Anthropology
1.2 Relationships with other (b) Difference between Science and Magic
disciplines: Social
Sciences, Behavioral • Major subdivisions of Anthropology (10Marks 2014)
Sciences, Life Sciences,
Medical Sciences, Earth • How do you situate Anthropology in Social Sciences? (10Marks
Sciences & Humanities. 2013)

• Give an account of the field methods used in the study of

Archaeological Anthropology. 15 marks(2018)

• Write notes on the following in about 150 words each:(2016)

a) Differences between Social Anthropology and Sociology.

1.3 Main branches of
Anthropology, their scope
• Archaeological Anthropology (10Marks 2015), * Archaeological
and relevance: Anthropology (. – 1992)
Social- cultural
• Linguistic Anthropology (10Marks 2013), * Linguistic
Anthropology.
Anthropology (. 1990)
Biological Anthropology.
• Social & Cultural Anthropology (. 1994)
Archaeological
Anthropology. • Applied Anthropology (. 1990)

Linguistic Anthropology. • Theme of Linguistic Anthropology (. 1989)

• New Physical Anthropology (. 1989)

1.4 Human Evolution and • Write notes on the following in about 150 words each:

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

emergence of Man: 10X5=50(2018)

a) Biological and Cultural (a) Gordon Childe’s Theory of Cultural Evolution
factors in human evolution. (b) Advanced Molecular Anthropology Techniques
b) Theories of Organic
Evolution (Pre- Darwinian, • Explain the biological changes that made human beings capable
Darwinian and Post- of making culture. 20 marks(2018)
Darwinian).
c) Synthetic theory of • Elucidate the biological and cultural factors in Human
evolution; Brief outline of evolution.(2016)
terms and concepts of
Evolutionary biology • Elucidate Biological & cultural factors in Human Evolution.
(Doll’s Rule, Cope’s rule, (15Marks 2015)
Gause’s rule, Parallelism,
convergence, adaptive • Critically examine the Darwin’s theory of evolution in
radiation, and mosaic understanding Evolution. (15Marks 2015)
evolution).
• Biological Evolution of early man (. – 1997)

• How Darwinism differs from the synthetic theory of organic

evolution? (. -1994)

• What is Synthetic Theory of Evolution? Discuss how this theory

helps us in understanding the evolutionary mechanism. (.. 1993)

• Synthetic theory of evolution (. – 1992)

• What is organic evolution? Give evidences for human evolution.

(.-1992)

• What is Organic Evolution? Describe the theories of organic

evolution. (.-1991)

• Theory of organic evolution (. – 1985)

• Micro evolution (. – 1990)

• Elucidate the theory of Evolution as put forward by Lamark.

• Give a critical account of the processes of organic evolution and

explain how they contribute to speciation. (LQ – 1988)

• Biological evolution and concept of new Physical Anthropology

(. -1986)

• Lamarckism & Darwinism (. – 1986)

1.5 Characteristics of • What do you understand by the National Character Study?

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS
Primates; Evolutionary
Trend and Primate
Taxonomy; Primate
Adaptations; (Arboreal and
Terrestrial) Primate
Taxonomy; Primate
Behaviour; Tertiary and
Quaternary fossil primates;
Living Major Primates;
Comparative Anatomy of
Man and Apes; Skeletal
changes due to erect
posture and its implications.
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Illustrate the concept. 15 marks(2018)
• Bring out the comparative anatomical features of man and apes.
Discuss their evolutionary significance.(2017)
• Explain the skeletal changes due to erect posture and their
implications.(2016)
• Elucidate the skeletal differences between humans and
chimpanzees. (15Marks 2014)
• Role of Primatology in Anthropological studies. (10Marks 2013)
• Discuss the anatomical changes that occurred in Man due to erect
posture. (. -1998)
• Discuss primate locomotion with special reference to adaptation
to arboreal life. (. – 1996)
• Adaptive radiation in primates (. – 1995)
• Primate (. – 1994)
• Narrate with reasons man’s place in primate order (. – 1994)
• Discuss the similarities and differences between Chimpanzee &
Man in salient physical and anatomical characteristics. (. – 1993)
• Anthropoid Apes (. – 1992), * Anthropoid apes (. – 1987)
• What are the characteristic physical features of the primates?
• Show the position of man among the other primates in a tabular
form. (. -1992)
• Why is Man a primate? Describe the place of Man in the animal
kingdom. (. -1991)
• Why is man included in the Primate Order? Discuss in detail. (. –
1989)
• Characters of Primates (. – 1988)
• Discuss the evolution of primates with special reference to
dentition – (. – 1986)
• What are the different fossil primates of the Palaeocene &
Eocene times?
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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

• Discuss critically the contribution of these primates to human

origin ? (. – 1986)

• Give a brief account of the distribution and physical features of

the Asiatic Anthropoid apes. (. – 1985)

• Describe the culture related to homo erectus. 15 marks(2018)

• Write short notes of 150 words on Rhodesian Man(2016)

• Describe the Salient characteristics & Geographical distribution

of Homo erectus. (20Marks 2015)
1.6 Phylogenetic status,
characteristics and • Asian Homo erectus (10Marks 2014)
geographical distribution of
the following: • Comment briefly on the phylogenetic position of
Australopithecines (10Marks 2012)
Social Sciences,
Behavioural Sciences, Life • Neanderthal Man (15 Marks – 2011)
Sciences, Medical Sciences,
Earth Sciences and • Describe major skeletal similarities & differences between Home
Humanities. Erectus & Homo Sapiens (30 Marks – 2011)

Homo erectus: Africa • Culture of Homo erectus (15 Marks – 2010)

(Paranthropus), Europe
(Homo erectus • Homo Habilis (20 Marks – 2009)
heidelbergensis), Asia
(Homo erectus javanicus, • Distinguish between major categories of Australopithecines.
Homo erectus pekinensis). How are Australopithecines different from Apes? (30 Marks –
2009)
Neanderthal Man- La-
Chapelle-aux-saints • Homo sapiens sapiens. (-1996)
(Classical type), Mt.
Carmel (Progressive type). • Discuss the geographic distribution and taxonomic issues
concerning early hominids. Elucidate evidence in support of
Rhodesian man. alternative positions.( -1996)

Homo sapiens — • Discuss the single source Vs multiple sources of the origin of
Cromagnon, Grimaldi and Homo sapiens. Which one of the two hypotheses do you think is
Chancelede. more tenable? Give reasons in support of your answer ( – 1995

• Homoerectus finds from Africa. ( – 1995) (– 1986)

• Homo sapiens – Neanderthalensis ( – 1994)

• Compare the fossil remains of progressive and ‘classic’

Neanderthal men for anatomical characteristics and spatial

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

distribution. Examine Their phylogenetic position in human

evolution. ( - 1993)

• Discuss the origin of Australopithecines. Describe their spatial

distribution and physical features. , (– 1990)

• Morphological characters of Homo erectus (. – 1989)

• Write what you know about Homo sapiens and Neanderthalensis.

(. – 1989)

• Discuss the spatial distribution, physical features, cultural status

and origin of Australopithecines (. – 1987)

• What do you understand by the term Homo sapiens’? Give an

account of the distribution and physical features of the earliest
fossil homosapiens. (. -1985)

• Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10X5=50

Town Planning of Harappan Culture

• What are dating methods? Discuss one absolute method and one
relative methods in detail.(2017)
1.8 1. Principles of
Prehistoric Archaeology. • Salient features of Mesolithic culture(2017)
Chronology: Relative and
Absolute Dating methods. • Critically examine the Stewardian view of neo-
2. cultural Evolution- Broad evolutionism.(2017)
Outlines of Prehistoric
cultures: • Short notes on Neolithic Cultures of India(2016)
Paleolithic • Give an account of the consequences of food production of
Neolithic culture. 15 m(2018)
Mesolithic
• Describe the absolute dating methods in Archaeology,
Neolithic
Highlighting the importance of each method. (15Marks 2014)
Chalcolithic
• Carbon-14 method of dating (10Marks 2013)
Copper-Bronze Age
• Problems of dating in Prehistoric Archaeology (. – 1997)
Iron Age
• Radiometric methods of dating fossils (. – 1996)

• Chronometric dating methods (. – 1995)

• Paleolithic Culture (10Marks 2015)

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS
2.1 The Nature of
Culture: The concept and
characteristics of culture
and civilization;
Ethnocentrism vis-à-vis
cultural Relativism
2.2 The Nature of
Society: Concept of
Society; Society and
Culture; Social Institutions;
Social groups; and Social
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• Describe the Neolithic culture of India. (15Marks 2014)
• Why is the Neolithic phase of culture ‘in Europe called
revolution? Describe its distinctive features. (. – 1995)
• Delineate the salient features of Chalcoloithic cultures.(2016)
• Short notes on Cultural Relativism(2016)
• Is culture unique to human beings? Critically examine. (15Marks
2014)
• Why the concept of Culture Relativism been so dear to
Anthropologists? (20Marks 2013)
• Bring out the distinguishing features of culture and civilization.
(15Marks 2013)
• Cultural relativism and subsequent violation of Human rights?(15
Marks — 2010),
.*Cultural Relativism (. -1995, 1987)
• Components of culture vast and varied”. Explain this statement.
(.. 2002)
• Culture trait and culture complex (. – 1999)
• Super organic view of culture (. – 1998)
• Pattern of culture (.-1998)
• Acculturation and Contra – acculturation (. -1997)
• What do you understand by cultural relativistic approach &
ethnocentric approach in the study of culture” Discuss the logical
premises of cultural relativistic approach. (. – 1997)
• Culture as construct or reality (. -1989)
• How does culture differ from civilization? Describe the attributes
of Culture? (. -1987)
• Define ethnography and present a brief history of ethnographic
studies. 20 marks(2018)
• Society and culture (10Marks 2015)
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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

stratification. • Incest Taboos (10Marks 2015)

• Define Status & Role. Distinguish between Ascribed and

Achieved Status. (15Marks 2014)

• What is the basis of social stratification? Discuss with examples

(20Marks 2012)

• Explain the concept of status and role in anthropology (20Marks

2012)

• Write a detailed note on polyandrous societies, citing Indian

examples (30 Marks-2009)

• Social stratification (. – 2000)

• Social structure (. – 1999)

• Discuss the Different forms of preferential marriage with suitable

examples from(2017)

• Define marriage & describe the various types of marriages in

human societies. (15Marks 2014)

• Where do you situate ‘live-in relationship’ within the institution

of marriage? (15Marks 2013)
2.3 Marriage: Definition
and universality; Laws of • Ways of acquiring a spouse in simpler societies (12Marks 2012)
marriage (endogamy,
exogamy, hypergamy, • How does taboo serve as a means of social control?(15Marks
hypogamy, incest taboo); 2013) * Incest Taboo (. – 2006)
Types of marriage
(monogamy, polygamy, • Describe various ways of getting mate in Primitive Society. Give
polyandry, group marriage). examples from Indian context.(.-1994)
Functions of marriage;
Marriage regulations • Matrilineal society (. -1991)
(preferential, prescriptive
and proscriptive); Marriage • Describe the problems of Universal definition of marriage. (. –
payments (bride wealth and 1991)
dowry).
• Describe the different forms of marriage among the tribal people
of India. (. – 1991)

• Define Marriage. Describe its different forms with suitable

examples as prevalent among the tribal people of India. Point out
the Functions of marriage. (. – 1989)

• What are incest regulations? Bring out their socio-cultural

functions in the context of stability in the institutions of marriage,

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

family and kinship.(.. 1988)

• What are various forms of preferential mating? Explain with

Indian examples. (. – 1985)

• Discuss the impact of urbanization and feminist movements on

family in India.(2016)

• Define family and critically examine Universality of Family.

(15Marks 2015)

• Discuss the impact of urbanization and feminist movement on

family. (20Marks 2013)

• Is family a social institution? (12Marks 2012)

• What do you understand by Feminist movements? Discuss their

impact on family. (. – 2002)

2.4 Family: Definition and • Critically comment on the forces and factors that have brought
universality; Family, about changes in the family structure in recent times (. – 1999)
household and domestic
groups; functions of family; • Do you agree with the view that family is a ‘universal
Types of family (from the association’? Critically examine the above statement. (. -1998)
perspectives of structure,
• Examine family both as a social group and as an institution.
blood relation, marriage,
Describe the functions of family and household, Indicating there
residence and succession);
in the recent changes. (. -1996)
Impact of urbanization,
industrialization and
• Is family a Universal Social group? Critically examine this with
feminist movements on
examples. (. – 1993)
family.
• Give a comparative account of different types of family in the
tribes of India. Illustrate your answer with suitable examples. (. –
1990)

• Universality of family (. – 1988)

• Give a comparative account of different types of family in tribal

& non-tribal societies of India.(.1987)

• What are the major functions of the family? Indicate the recent
changes that have taken place in its types and functions with
special reference to India. (. – 1985)

2.5.Kinship: Consanguinity • Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10X5=50
and Affinity; Principles and

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

types of descent (Unilineal, Kinship Terminology(2018)

Double, Bilateral,
Ambilineal); Forms of • Elucidate the determinants of kinship terminology.(2017)
descent groups (lineage,
clan, phratry, moiety and • Bilincal and bilateral descents.(2017)
kindred); Kinship
terminology (descriptive • Short notes on Lineage and Clan(2016)
and classificatory);
Descent, Filiation and • Describes the cardinal points of descent and alliance
Complimentary Filiation; theories.(2016)
Descent and Alliance.
• Double Descent (10Marks 2014)

• Various types of descent (10Marks 2013) (. – 2008)

• Describe types of kinship groups formed on the basis of different

principles(20Marks 2012)

• What factors are responsible for bringing about variation in

residence of different societies? Explain how kinship influences
man’s social life. (30 Marks — 2010)

• Segmentary lineage and territoriality (15 Marks – 2010)

• Define kinship & throw light on ‘functional importance’ of

kinship in Anthro. (. – 2003)

• Explain the salient features of Descent and Alliance theories.

• Discuss their relevance to the analysis and understanding of

social structure (. – 2001)

• Discuss the distinguishing features of unilineal, bilineal and

bilateral kin groups with

• Suitable examples in support of your answer. (. -1997)

• What is Kinship System? Describe the changing roles of the

system in the context of westernization in India. (. – 1995)

• Kinship terms and Kinship behavior (. – 1994)

• What is kinship system? Discuss its relevance in understanding

the social structure of society. ( 1991)

• Difference between clan and lineage in primitive society (. -

1986)

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS
3. Economic
organization: Meaning,
scope and relevance of
economic anthropology;
Formalist and Substantivist
debate; Principles
governing production,
distribution and exchange
(reciprocity, redistribution
and market), incept
communities, subsisting on
hunting and gathering,
fishing, swiddening,
pastoralism, horticulture,
and agriculture;
globalization and
indigenous economic
systems.
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• Write the characteristics of hunting and gathering economy. 15
marks(2018)
• With the help of appropriate example, explain the various forms
of exchange system.(2017)
• Discuss the principles governing production, distribution and
exchange in simple societies.(2016)
• Horticulture (10Marks 2015)
• Critically examine the Formalists &Substantivists views on the
applicability of Economic laws in the study of Primitive
societies. (20Marks 2015)
• Discuss the impact of globalization on tribal economy (20Marks
2013)
• Differentiate between Economics and Economic Anthropology
(10Marks 2013)
• Discuss different modes of Exchanges in simple societies with
examples (30Marks 2011)
• Critically examine the debate between Formalists
&Substantivists (30Marks 2011)
• What stage is known as incipient stage of food production? Point
out major features of this cultural stage. Illustrate your answer
with suitable examples from a specific area in the old world.(30
Marks 2010)
• Trade & barter (. -2005)
• Critically discuss the formalist and substantivist approaches in
the context of economic anthropology. (. – 2005)
• Ceremonial Exchange (. – 2004)
• Kula Ring (. -2003)
• Primitive economic organization has several peculiar features
relating to the production, consumption, distribution and
exchange.” Discuss above statement by providing appropriate
illustrations.(.-2003)
• Delineate the meaning and scope of economic anthropology and
discuss the principles that govern production, distribution and
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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS
4. Political organization and
Social Control: Band, tribe,
chiefdom, kingdom and
state; concepts of power,
authority and legitimacy;
social control, law and
justice in simple societies.
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consumption in hunting and gathering communities. (. – 1997)
• Define market. Discuss the nature and role of markets in tribal
communities. (. -1992)
• Discuss the meaning & scope of ‘economic anthropology’. (. –
1990)
• Discuss the role of reciprocity & redistribution in tribal economy
with examples. (. – 1988)
• How does customary law function in the tribal society? Discuss
its different sources. 15 marks(2018)
• Mention the characteristics features of band with suitable
examples.(2017)
• discuss different social control mechanisms in simple
societies.(2016)
• Differentiate between State and Stateless Societies. (10Marks
2014)
• Discuss the nature of Law and Justice in simple societies citing
suitable examples. (20Marks 2014)
• Band and tribal societies (12Marks 2012)
• Chiefdom in tribal society (20 Marks — 2009)
• Discuss mechanisms of social control in simple societies citing
suitable examples. (. – 2007)
• Describe the evolution of Political Systems (. – 2006)
• ‘Primitive Society is governed by the traditional customary law’.
Do you agree with this statement? Explain. (. – 1998)
• Differentiate between centralized political systems and stateless
political Systems and state how law & justice are administered in
stateless societies. (. -1996)
• Differentiate between state & stateless political systems. Do you
think that a stateless political system can function in modern
societies? (.-1994)
• Describe the means of social control in simpler societies and
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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS
5.Religion: Anthropological
approaches to the study of
religion (evolutionary,
psychological and
functional); monotheism
and polytheism; sacred and
profane; myths and rituals;
forms of religion in tribal
and peasant societies
(animism, animatism,
fetishism, naturism and
totemism); religion, magic
and science distinguished;
magico- religious
functionaries (priest,
shaman, medicine man,
sorcerer and witch).
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compare the legal system of simple and complex societies. (. –
1993)
• Explain the meaning and scope of political anthropology.
Describe how law and justice are maintained in simpler
societies.(.-1991)
• Law & Justice in simple societies. (. -1987)
• How is law administered in primitive societies? Give suitable
examples. (. – 1985)
• Explain the meaning & scope of political anthropology. Describe
how law and order are being maintained in the so-called
preliterate societies. (. – 1989)
• Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10X5=50
Ways of acquiring mate in Tribal Society(2018)
• Discuss the different traditional forms of religion in tribal
societies.(2017)
• Difference between religion and magic.(2017)
• Short notes on Totemism(2016)
• critically examine different Anthropological approaches to
Religion.(2016)
• How do you relate the concepts of ‘Sacred’ and ‘Profane’ in
Durkheim’s theory of Religion with a focus on the role of
Totem? (15Marks 2015)
• Totemism (10Marks 2013)
• Distinguish between religion, magic and science (20Marks 2013)
• Explain various Anthropological approaches to study Religion
(30Marks 2011)
• How anthropologists define Religion? Describe various forms of
religion with examples. (. – 2007)
• Shamanism (. – 2007)
• “Witchcraft accusation is the result of strained interpersonal
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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

relations” – Explain (. – 2005)

• Distinguish between magic and religion. Give suitable examples.

(. – 2004)

• Discuss some of the characteristic features of tribal religions in

India and state how far they have changed in recent times. (. –
1999)

• Witchcraft and Sorcery (. -1998)

• Why have religion and magic become stable features of a

society?

• What role do the religious functionaries play in simple and non-

literate societies? (. .1996)

• Discuss the role of totemism in primitive religion, according to

Durkheim. (. – 1994)

• Highlight the significance of religious practices in Tribal

communities of India. (. – 1993)

• Religion and Magic (. – 1992)

• What is religion? Discuss Tylor’s Theory of Origin of religion.

—. (. -1991)

• Describe the Origin of religion. Distinguish between religion and

magic. (. – 1990)

• What do you mean by Totemism? Discuss the role of totemism in

the tribal life of India. (. – 1989)

• Distinguish between religion and magic. Critically examine the

different theories of religion and comment on their relevance
today.(. -1987)

• Differences between primitive religion and world religion (. -

1986)

• How do you explain the origin and evolution of religion? How

does religion continue to function in human society? (. – 1985)

• How did Morgan explain the Evolution of Marriage, Family and

Classical evolutionism Socio-Political organization & how did other Evolutionists
(Tylor, Morgan and Frazer) disagree with his explanation? (20Marks 2015)

• How do Diffusionism & Evolutionism differ as explanations of

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

Culture change? (15Marks 2015)

• Point out the differences in the concepts of Classical

Evolutionism and neo-evolutionism in socio-cultural
anthropology. Which stage of Prehistoric culture is known as
cultural evolution and why? (30 Marks — 2010)

• Universal Culture Evolution (. – 2002)

• Classical evolutionism (. – 1997)

• How do the approaches of the 19th century Evolutionists differ

from those of the Neo-Evolutionists? Discuss (. – 1993)

• “Evolution is biological & socio-cultural” – Discuss (. – 1990)

• 19th Century evolutionism (. -1988)

• Contributions of Morgan and Tylor in the history and linguistics?

(. – 1985)

• Historical Particularism (10Marks 2015)

• How do Diffusionism & Evolutionism differ as explanations of

Culture change? (15Marks 2015)

• Culture area & Age area (Diffusionism) (. – 2000)

• Define ‘culture area’. How did it help American diffusionists to

Historical particularism understand diffusion of culture? (. – 1998)
(Boas); Diffusionism
(British, German and • Critically examine the Historical Particularistic approach of
American) Franz Boas to the study of culture. (. -1997)

• What was Boas’ approach of studying primitive cultures?

Delineate the role of Field work and history in anthropological
study (LQ – 1995)

• Franz Boas (.-1991), Franz Boas (. -1988)

• Basic tenets of structural-functionalism.(2017)

Functionalism
(Malinowski); Structural- • Short notes on Functionalism(2016)
functionlism (Radcliffe-
Brown) • What is functionalism? Discuss the functional approach to the
understanding of Religion. (20Marks 2014)

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

• In what ways is Functionalism different from Structural

Functionalism? (20Marks 2013)

• Structural-functionalism (. – 2008)

• Describe the structural features of social life as suggested by

Radcliffe Brown in his theory of social structure. (. – 2003)

• Discuss the approaches of Radcliffe – Brown and Evans

Pritchard to Comparative Methods in Anthropological Research.
(. -2001)

• What is meant by functionalism? Discuss the basic tenets of

Malinowski’s functionalism? (– 1999)

• To Radcliffe-Brown function was the contribution an institution

makes to the maintenance of social structure’. Elucidate in the
light of R.C. Brown’s contributions to structural functional
theory. (. – 1998)

• A.R. Radcliffe-Brown (. – 1994)

• Discuss Malinowski’s contributions to functionalism in social

anthropology. (. -1990)
Evaluate Malinowski’s contributions to functionalism (. – 1987)

• Reexamine the views of R.C. Brown in connection with structure

& function in Anthropology?(.-1989)

• Examine Malinowski’s theory of needs and state its merits. (. -

1986)

• Write an essay on ‘Structure – function’ theory of Radcliffe –

Brown. (. -1986)

• How do the concepts of binary opposites and exchange figure in

Levi-Strauss’ structural analysis of kinship?(2016)

Structuralism (L’evi – • What are the major criticisms of the theory of “Structuralism” as
Strauss and E. Leach) propounded by Claude Levi—Strauss? (30 Marks — 2009)

• Edmond R. Leach (. – 1993)

Culture and personality • Explain Ruth Benedict’s patterns of culture.(2017)

(Benedict, Mead, Linton,

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Kardiner and Cora – du • Discuss the relationship between culture and personality. (. –
Bois). 2008)

• Critically discuss the contributions of Ruth Benedict to the study

of culture. (. – 2004)

• Discuss the contributions of Margaret Mead and Ralph Linton to

the analysis of the relationship between culture and personality.(.
-2001)

• Discuss the contribution of Ralph Linton, Cora-Du-Bois and

Abraham Kardiner in the study of personality. (. – 1999)

• Culture- Personality (. – 1996)

• Model Personality (Cultural personality school) (. -1992)

• Explain the theory of ‘Neo-Evolutionism’ (60 Marks — 2009)

• Neo-evolutionism (. – 1997)

• What do you understand by Neo-evolutionism? Evaluate how

Leslie A White’s approach is helpful in understanding cultural
revolution.(. -2000)
Neo – evolutionism
• What do you mean by cultural ecology’? Evaluate how Julian
(Childe, White, Steward,
Steward’s particularistic
Sahlins and Service)
Approach is helpful in understanding multilineal evolution. (. -
1998)

• How do the approaches of the 19th century Evolutionists differ

from those of the Neo-Evolutionists? Discuss (. – 1993)

• Write an essay on neo-evolutionism and cultural ecology.(. –

1989)

Cultural materialism
• Cultural Materialism (15 Marks 2011), 2003
(Harris)

• According to Geertz, how does the cock-fight reveal aspects of

Symbolic and interpretive
Balinese culture?(2016)
theories (Turner, Schneider
and Geertz) • What made Geertz’s Interpretative Anthropology distinct from
Turner’s Symbolic Anthropology? What does each of them mean

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Cognitive theories (Tyler,
Conklin)
Post- modernism in
anthropology
7. Culture, language and
communication: Nature,
origin and characteristics of
language; verbal and non-
verbal communication;
social context of language
use.
8. Research methods in
anthropology:
Fieldwork tradition in
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by the terms Symbol & Symbolic? (20Marks 2015)
• Explain the difference between ‘Emic’ & ‘Etic’ and how does the
difference derive from the study of language? (10Marks 2015)
• Bring out the contribution of Turner and Geertz in symbolic and
interpretive theories in Anthropology (15Marks 2013)
• Critically examine the contribution of anthropologists in the
interpretation of Symbols (30Marks 2011)
• Symbolism (. -2007), Symbolism (. – 1999)
• Symbolic Anthropology (. – 2001)
• Explain the difference between ‘Emic’ & ‘Etic’ and how does the
difference derive from the study of language? (10Marks 2015)
• Cognitive Anthropology (. – 2002)
• What is cognitive approach? Critically examine its implications
in Socio-cultural Anthropology. (. -1996)
• Explain the basic features of ‘Postmodernism’ in Anthropology.
(20Marks 2015)
• Post-modernism in anthropology (12Marks 2012)
• Critically examine that the structure and content of language are
influenced by culture. 15 marks(2018)
• Short notes on
a)Non-verbal communication.(2017)
b)questionnaire
• State the theories regarding the origin of spoken languages in
human societies both from Biological and cultural points of view.
(30 Marks —2010)
• How is case study method helpful in understanding a social
phenomena? Explain with suitable example. 20 marks(2018)
• Elucidate the basic characteristics of anthropological fieldwork
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anthropology methods.(2017)

Distinction between • Describe the evolution of Fieldwork tradition in

technique, method and Anthropology.(2016)
methodology
• Field work tradition in Anthropology (10Marks 2014)
Tools of data collection:
observation, interview, • Field work tradition in Anthropology (15Marks 2011)
schedules, questionnaire,
Case study, genealogy, life- • Discuss the different fieldwork traditions in anthropological
history, oral history, research. (. – 1988)
secondary sources of
information, participatory • Fieldwork traditions in Anthropology (. – 1987,1985)
methods.
• Genealogical Method (10Marks 2014), * Genealogical method of
Analysis, interpretation and field investigation. (. – 1994)
presentation of data.
• Discuss the relevance of Case Study method of data collection.
(20marks 2013)

• Relative dating methods (12Marks 2012)

• What are the tools of data collection?

• Discuss the advantages and limitations of participant –

observations as a technique of data collection (20Marks 2012)

• What do you understand by the following terms? (30 Marks —

2010)
(i) Systematic sampling. (ii) Stratified sampling. (iii) Multistage
sampling.

• Schedule and ‘Questionnaire’ in research methodology (20

Marks — 2009)

• Discuss the importance of field work in anthropology and

describe various tools of data collection (. – 2008)

• Critically examine the contribution of Positivist and Non-

Positivist approaches in Social Science Research (. – 2007)

• Participatory Rapid Assessment (PRA) (. – 2004)

• Discuss the contributions of field work in the development of

anthropological concepts and theories. (. – 1999)

• Trace the genesis and development of fieldwork in

anthropological research.

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

Assess its importance in the development of Anthropology. (. –

1998)

• Examine the importance of observation as a field work technique

in Anthropology. Differentiate between participant & non-
participant Observation and analyze the problem of objectivity in
participant observation. (. -1996)

• What are questionnaires & schedule techniques of field study?

Assess their relative usefulness in anthropological studies. (. –
1995)

• Discuss the nature and logic of anthropological field work

methods. How these differ from those of other social sciences?
Discuss. (. -1994)

• Method and Methodology (. -1993)

• Discuss the nature and method of Anthropological Fieldwork and

explain its uniqueness. (. – 1993)

• Discuss the nature and logic of anthropological field work

methods. (. -1991)

• Discuss the difference between the technique, method and

methodology as employed in anthropological studies. (. – 1990)

• Participant observation in Anthropological Fieldwork. (. – 1989)

• How does fieldworker strike a balance between the theoretical

requirements and real field situations?Describe with suitable
examples. (. – 1989)

• Distinguish between technique, method and methodology.

Examine their role in anthropological studies. (. – 1987)

• Explain the significant role of an informant in anthropological

fieldwork. (. – 1986)

9.1 Human Genetics –

Methods and Application: • Briefly describe the various methods used in the genetic study of
Methods for study of man.(2017)
genetic principles in man-
family study (pedigree • Twin method in human genetics (10Marks 2013)
analysis, twin study, foster
• Non-Communicable diseases (20 Marks — 2009)
child, co-twin method,
cytogenetic method,

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chromosomal and karyo-
type analysis), biochemical
methods, immunological
methods, D.N.A.
technology and
recombinant technologies.
9.2 Mendelian genetics in
man-family study, single
factor, multifactor, lethal,
sub-lethal and polygenic
inheritance in man.
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• Genetics of HLA and organ transplantation (30 Marks — 2009)
• Anthropological relevance of population genetics (20 Marks —
2009)
• Thrifty genotype (20 Marks — 2009)
• Pedigree Analysis (. – 2007)
• Genome Study (. – 2007)
• Discuss the areas in which the knowledge of human genetics can
be applied. (. – 2004)
• Discuss the role of twins in nature – nurture problems and
illustrate your answer with suitable examples (. – 1999)
• Define twins. Describe the methods of diagnosis of twins. In
what way are twins useful in the study of human genetics? (. –
1998)
• What are the legal and sub-lethal genes? Explain (20Marks
2012)
• Discuss monogenetic & polygenetic inheritance in man with
suitable examples (30Marks 2011)
• What are the contributions of Gregor Mendel to the field of
Genetics?
• Discuss with suitable examples how Mendel’s laws of
inheritance are applicable to Man? (. – 1993)
• What are Mendel’s laws of inheritance? Describe the recent
advances in human genetics. (. – 1992)
• Describe Mendel’s laws of inheritance. What are the recent
advances in human genetics and human cytogenetics? (. – 1990)
• Laws of heredity as propounded by Mendel. (. – 1989)
• Discuss how laws of heredity propounded by Mendel can be
understood in the context of meiotic Cell division and their
applications to Man. (.-1987)
• Discuss the laws of inheritance propounded by Mendel on the
basis of his classic experiments. Explain how these laws are
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applied in the study of human genetics (. – 1986)

• Hardy-Weinberg Law.(2017)

• Critically discuss the Mendelian principles and their application

to human populations.(2016)

• What do you understand by Immunogenetics? Explain with

suitable examples. (15Marks 2015)

• Discuss the factors affecting gene frequencies among human

populations. (20Marks 2014)

• What do you understand by ‘Genetic Load’ in a population? How

is it measured And what are the important factors that can
influence it? (15Marks 2013)
9.3 Concept of genetic
polymorphism and • What are the genetic effects of Consanguinity? Give examples?
selection, Mendelian (20Marks 2012)
population, Hardy-
Weinberg law; causes and • Conditions necessary for the operation of hardy – Weinberg law
changes which bring down (15Marks 2011)
frequency – mutation,
• What is Balanced Genetic Polymorphism? How is it maintained
isolation, migration,
in a population? (30 Marks—2010)
selection, inbreeding and
genetic drift.
• What is genetic load’ and what factors influence it? (30 Marks —
Consanguineous and non-
2009)
consanguineous mating,
genetic load, genetic effect • Inbreeding (. – 2008)
of consanguineous and
cousin marriages. • What do you understand by Hardy- Weinberg equilibrium?
Discuss the factors that produce and redistribute variations. (. –
2008)

• Problems of Inbreeding (– 2005)

• Genetic polymorphism and selection (. – 2003)

• Describe the major causes of change in gene frequency of a

population (. – 2003)

• What are the statistical methods used in Physical Anthropology?

(. – 2001)

• Sampling methods (. -2001)

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• Mutation (. – 1998)

• Discuss the concept of Mendelian Population’ and its application

in the study of anthropogenetic variations in India. (. – 1997)

• Discuss the concepts of balanced po1ymorphism & relaxed

selection with special reference to malaria dependent
polymorphism in Man. (. -1994)

• Inbreeding and cross breeding (. -1993)

• Is inbreeding different from consanguinity? Give an account of

inbreeding studies in
India and comment on their social relevance. (. – 1987)

• Discuss role of genetic drift, mutation and migration as the

causes of variation. (. -1985)

• Define Genetic polymorphism. Give details of its types with

suitable examples. (15Marks 2015)

• Genetic Polymorphism (15Marks 2011) (. -2006)

9.4 Chromosomes and • Describe the mechanism for structural anomalies of autosomes
chromosomal aberrations in with diagrams. 20 marks(2018)
man, methodology.
• Write notes on the following in about 150 words each:
Numerical and structural 10X5=50
aberrations (disorders). Categorize Genes that influence Human Survival(2018)
Explain the significance of screening and counseling for genetic
Sex chromosomal disorders.(2016)
aberrations – Klinefelter
(XXY), Turner (XO), Super • Down’s syndrome (10Marks 2015)
female (XXX), intersex and
other syndromic disorders. • Discuss chromosomal aberrations in man illustrating with
examples. (15Marks 2015)
Autosomal aberrations –
Down syndrome, Patau, • Describe Turner and Kline filter Syndromes (15Marks 2014)
Edward and Cri-du-chat
syndromes. • Genetic Counselling (10Marks 2014)
Genetic counseling (12Marks 2012)
Genetic imprints in human
disease, genetic screening, • Discuss the chromosomal aberrations and manifestations of
genetic counseling, human Klinefelter and Turner syndromes (20Marks 2013), * Klinefelter
DNA profiling, gene Syndrome (. – 2003)
mapping and genome study.
• Chromosomal deletions and numerical fluctuations may lead to

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

gross abnormalities in man.

Discuss with the help of suitable example. (30 Marks — 2010)

• Discuss different types of sex chromosomal aberrations. (. -2007)

• What is Genetic Counseling? Discuss its relevance in the present

day context. (. – 2006), * Genetic counselling (. – 2002), *
Genetic Counseling (. – 1998)

• Discuss the relevance of human DNA profiling and Gene

Mapping in the prevention and cure of diseases. (. -2001)

• Gene therapy (. – 1995)

• Discuss genetic and clinical aspects of the anomalies of sex

chromosomes in man with Special reference to the associated
mosaic constitutions (. – 1995)

9.5 Race and racism,

biological basis of
morphological variation of • Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10X5=50
non-metric and metric Race is a Myth. Justify its Present Day Relevance(2018)
characters. Racial criteria,
racial traits in relation to • Concept of race(2017)
heredity and environment;
biological basis of racial • Explain the role of heredity and environment in the formation of
classification, racial races.(2016)
differentiation and race
crossing in man.

9.6 Age, sex and population

variation as genetic marker-
ABO, Rh blood groups,
HLA Hp, transferring, Gm,
blood enzymes.
Physiological • Write notes on the following in about 150 words each:
characteristics- Hb level,
a) RH-blood group(2016)
body fat, pulse rate,
respiratory functions and
sensory perceptions in
different cultural and socio-
economic groups.

9.7 Concepts and methods
of Ecological
Anthropology. Bio-cultural
Adaptations – Genetic and
Non- genetic factors. Man’s
physiological responses to
• Distinguish between adaptation, adaptability and acclimatization
with examples. 20 marks(2018)
• Discuss the responses and acclimatization to high altitude
stresses.(2017)

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

environmental stresses: hot • Discuss the development of the concept of cultural in

desert, cold, high altitude Anthropology.(2017)
climate.
• Discuss the genetic and non-genetic factors in the bio-cultural
adaptations of human beings to different environments.(2016)

9.8 Epidemiological
• Narrate evolution of disease and major causes of ill health in
Anthropology: Health and
human populations. 15 marks(2018)
disease. Infectious and non-
infectious diseases.
• Describe the scope of Epidemiological Anthropology in the study
Nutritional deficiency
of infectious and non-infectious diseases.(2016)
related diseases.

10.1 Relevance in
understanding of
contemporary society.
Dynamics of ethnicity at
rural, tribal, urban and • Explain the impact of discovery of iron technology on
international levels. Ethric contemporary society. 15 marks(2018)
conflicts and political
developments. Concept of
ethnic boundaries. Ethnicity
and concept of nation state.

10. Concept of human

growth and development:
stages of growth – pre- • Do Allen’s rule and Bergmann’s rule hold for human
natal, natal, infant, populations? Explain with examples. 15 marks(2018)
childhood, adolescence,
maturity, senescence. • Explain the mechanisms of human variation in gene frequencies.
– Factors affecting growth 20 marks(2018)
and development genetic,
• Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10X5=50
environmental,
Issues of Elderly and Senescence in Developing and Developed
biochemical, nutritional,
Countries(2018)
cultural and socio-
economic.
• Discuss Sheldon’s method of somatotyping.(2017)
– Ageing and senescence.
Theories and observations – • Describe the various methods of studying growth highlighting
biological and their merits and demerits.(2017)
chronological longevity.
Human physique and • Discuss different factors affecting growth and development in
somatotypes. human beings.(2016)
Methodologies for growth
studies.

11.1 Relevance of
menarche, menopause and • Describe the biological and socio-ecological factors affecting
other bioevents to fertility. fertility and mortality.(2017)
Fertility patterns and

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UPSC ANTHROPOLOGY PAPER 1 TOPICWISE QUESTIONS

differentials. • Age at menarche(2017)

11.2 Applications of
Anthropology:
Anthropology of sports,
Nutritional anthropology,
Anthropology in
designing of defence and
other equipments, Forensic
Anthropology, Methods • What are the methods of personal identifications? Critically
and principles of personal examine how personal identification helps in criminal
identification and investigations.(2017)
reconstruction, Applied
human genetics – Paternity • Write short notes on Forensic Anthropology(2016)
diagnosis, genetic
counseling and eugenics,
DNA technology in
diseases and medicine,
serogenetics and
cytogenetics in
reproductive biology.

12. Biological and socio-

ecological factors
• Define fecundity and explain major factors affecting fecundity in
influencing fecundity,
Indian populations. 15 marks(2018)
fertility natality and
mortality.

12. 1Applications of
Anthropology:
Anthropology of sports,
Nutritional anthropology,
Anthropology in
designing of defence and
other equipments, Forensic
Anthropology, Methods
and principles of personal • Anthropology and designing of equipments.(2017)
identification and
• Describe the role of Anthropology in designing defence and other
reconstruction, Applied
equipment.(2016)
human genetics – Paternity
diagnosis, genetic
counseling and eugenics,
DNA technology in
diseases and medicine,
serogenetics and
cytogenetics in
reproductive biology.

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