UPSC Anthropology Syllabus 2023: Anthropology is a popular subject in the UPSC exam. This is because there are many resources available for preparation and the syllabus is easy to understand. The syllabus includes components from science, so it is preferred by science graduates as well. The focus of the syllabus is to assess the aspirant’s ability to understand science and apply it to real-life problems. Some important topics include human evolution, cultural evolution, social structures, and development. According to past exams, the questions in anthropology are generally of an easy to moderate level.
Main Focus of UPSC Anthropology Optional Syllabus 2023
The anthropology syllabus is designed to evaluate candidates’ proficiency in comprehending and implementing scientific knowledge in practical situations. It covers significant subjects such as human evolution, cultural evolution, social structures, and development. Based on the previous year’s exam analysis, it can be observed that the questions in anthropology optional papers ranged from easy to moderately challenging difficulty levels.
UPSC Exam Pattern 2023
The UPSC anthropology optional syllabus is structured into two papers, Paper I and Paper II, with each paper carrying 250 marks, making a cumulative total of 500 marks. To achieve a high score in the civil services exam, it is essential to diligently study the comprehensive UPSC anthropology syllabus.
Let’s explore the topic-wise UPSC anthropology syllabus for both papers
IAS Anthropology Syllabus for Paper I
Meaning, Scope, and Development of Anthropology
Relationships with other disciplines
Main branches of Anthropology, their scope, and relevance
Detailed Topic-wise UPSC Anthropology Syllabus for Paper I:
- Evolution of Man and Society:
- Biological and Cultural Evolution
- Organic Evolution
- Human evolution
- Primates and Fossil Primates
- Anthropological Theories
2. Human Genetics:
- Mendelian genetics in humans
- Chromosomes and chromosomal aberrations
- Molecular genetics
3. Physical Anthropology:
- The concept of race and racism
- Biocultural adaptation
- Human growth and development
- Human variation and population genetics
4. Archaeological Anthropology:
- Definition and scope of Archaeology
- Methods of archaeological excavation
- Dating methods in Archaeology
- Prehistoric archaeology
5. Social-Cultural Anthropology:
- Definition and scope of social-cultural anthropology
- Marriage, family, and kinship
- Political organization and social control
- Economic organization
6. Anthropological Theories:
- Evolutionism
- Diffusionism
- Historical particularism
- Functionalism
IAS Anthropology Syllabus for Paper II:
- Prehistoric Cultures:
- Paleolithic period
- Mesolithic period
- Neolithic period
- Chalcolithic period
2. Indian Ethnography:
- Tribal situation in India
- Major tribal groups in India
- Linguistic and religious minorities
3. Indian Social System:
- Caste system
- Joint family system
- Village community
4. Religion and Society:
- Religious beliefs and practices
- Rituals and ceremonies
- Religious movements and sects
5. Applied Anthropology:
- Development anthropology
- Medical anthropology
- Urban anthropology
Download UPSC Anthropology Syllabus 2023 << Available Now >>