All 8 questions from UPSC Civil Services Mains Anthropology 2024 Paper I (400 marks total). Every stem reproduced in full, with directive-word analysis, marks, word limits, and answer-approach pointers.
50M150wCompulsorywrite short notesAttributes of culture, Harappan trade, kinship, genetics, hemoglobin
Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50
(a) Attributes of culture
(b) Harappan maritime trade
(c) Critical perspective on avoidance and joking relationship
(d) Lethal and sublethal genes
(e) Hemoglobin in health and disease
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित प्रत्येक पर लगभग 150 शब्दों में टिप्पणी लिखिए : 10×5=50
(a) संस्कृति की विशेषताएँ
(b) हड़प्पाकालीन समुद्री व्यापार
(c) परिहार एवं परिहास संबंधों पर समालोचनात्मक दृष्टिकोण
(d) घातक और उपघातक जीन
(e) स्वास्थ्य और बीमारी में हीमोग्लोबिन
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Anthropology Paper 1. (a) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (b) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (c) critique: the claim > its strengths > its weaknesses > your judgment | (d) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (e) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance Full marks: Precise definitions, named examples, critical analysis, and Indian context.
Define culture (e.g., Malinowski or Kroeber)
Identify culture as learned and shared
Mention culture is symbolic and integrated
Provide one specific example of a cultural attribute
Identify key trade partners (Mesopotamia, Oman)
Mention specific trade goods (carnelian, cotton)
Name a key site (Lothal or Balakot)
Reference to archaeological evidence (docks, seals)
Define avoidance and joking relationships
Identify the kinship context (e.g., affinal)
Provide a critical perspective (e.g., gender bias)
Mention a specific ethnographic example
Define lethal genes (death before reproductive age, dominant or recessive)
Define sublethal/semilethal genes (death of a proportion of carriers, reduced viability)
Give an example of a lethal gene (e.g., yellow mouse A^Y, Tay-Sachs)
Give an example of a sublethal gene (e.g., haemophilia, sickle cell anaemia in untreated populations)
(a) Discuss historical particularism as a critical development to the classical evolutionism. 20 marks
(b) Describe the evidences of food production and domestication of animals with special reference to Mehrgarh. Throw light on its significance. 15 marks
(c) Critically comment on the lifestyle diseases and their impact on human health. 15 marks
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) शास्त्रीय विकासवाद के आलोचनात्मक विकास के रूप में ऐतिहासिक विशिष्टतावाद पर चर्चा कीजिए। 20 अंक
(b) मेहरगढ़ के विशेष संदर्भ में खाद्य उत्पादन और पशुओं को पालतू बनाने के साक्ष्यों का वर्णन कीजिए। इसके महत्व पर प्रकाश डालिए। 15 अंक
(c) जीवन-शैली से जुड़ी बीमारियों और मानव स्वास्थ्य पर उनके प्रभाव पर आलोचनात्मक टिप्पणी कीजिए। 15 अंक
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Anthropology Paper 1 (Sociology & Social Anthropology). (a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (c) comment: context > arguments both sides > judgment > close Full marks: Precise definitions, named scholars/sites, and clear logical flow.
50MdiscussKaryotype analysis, urbanization and family, fieldwork challenges
(a) What is meant by karyotype? How does its analysis help in diagnosis of the chromosomal aberrations in man? 20 marks
(b) Define urbanization and discuss its impact on family in India with examples. 15 marks
(c) Discuss the contemporary challenges in fieldwork method in anthropological research. 15 marks
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) गुणसूत्री-रचना से आपका क्या तात्पर्य है? इसका विश्लेषण मनुष्य में गुणसूत्र विपथन के निदान में किस प्रकार सहायता करता है? 20 अंक
(b) शहरीकरण को परिभाषित कीजिए तथा भारत में परिवार पर इसके प्रभाव की संदर्भ विवेचना कीजिए। 15 अंक
(c) मानवशास्त्रीय अनुसंधान में क्षेत्रीय कार्य-पद्धति में समकालीन चुनौतियों की विवेचना कीजिए। 15 अंक
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Anthropology Paper 1 (Physical Anthropology & Social Anthropology). (a) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) challenges: 3-4 challenges > solutions mapped to them > conclusion Full marks: Precise definitions, specific examples, clear structure, and strong analytical depth.
Definition of karyotype (chromosome number, size, centromere position)
Mechanism of karyotyping (metaphase arrest, banding techniques)
Identification of numerical aberrations (e.g., Down syndrome, Turner syndrome)
Identification of structural aberrations (e.g., translocation, deletion)
Definition of urbanization (rural-urban migration, lifestyle change)
Shift from joint to nuclear family structure
Changes in marriage patterns (arranged to love, inter-caste)
Impact on gender roles and women's workforce participation
Ethical challenges (informed consent, IRB approval, do no harm)
Access and security issues (conflict zones, restricted areas)
Digital fieldwork challenges (cyber-ethics, data privacy)
Positionality and reflexivity (researcher's bias, power dynamics)
(a) Critically discuss the characteristics of the psychological types in the cultures of the American South-West as observed by Ruth Benedict. 20 marks
(b) Discuss the Acheulian and Oldowan traditions of Indian Paleolithic cultures with suitable illustrations. 15 marks
(c) What is genetic counselling? Briefly discuss various steps involved in it. 15 marks
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) रुथ बेनेडिक्ट द्वारा देखी गई अमरीका की दक्षिण-पश्चिम की संस्कृतियों में मनोवैज्ञानिक प्रकारों की विशेषताओं पर समालोचनात्मक चर्चा कीजिए। 20 अंक
(b) उपयुक्त उदाहरणों के साथ भारतीय पुरापाषाणिक संस्कृतियों की एच्यूलियन और ओल्डोवन परंपराओं की चर्चा कीजिए। 15 अंक
(c) आनुवंशिक परामर्श क्या है? इसमें सम्मिलित विभिन्न चरणों की संक्षेप में चर्चा कीजिए। 15 अंक
Answer approach & key points
(a) critique: the claim > its strengths > its weaknesses > your judgment | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) explain: definition/context > points in order > small example > short close Full marks: Comprehensive, critical, and well-structured answers with specific examples and illustrations.
Benedict's configurational approach ('personality writ large', cultural integration)
Apollonian and Dionysian types defined (borrowed from Nietzsche)
Pueblo peoples (Zuni) as Apollonian versus neighbouring Dionysian peoples (Pima, Plains); Kwakiutl and Dobu as further contrasts
Critical evaluation of the typology's validity and limits
Define Oldowan and Acheulian traditions
Identify key tool types (e.g., hand axes, choppers)
Name specific Indian sites (e.g., Bori, Belan valley)
Provide suitable illustrations or descriptions of tools
50M150wCompulsorywrite short notesChronometric dating, Kula exchange, heritability, political organization, genetic disorders
Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10×5=50
(a) Chronometric dating
(b) Cultural relevance of the Kula
(c) Heritability and its estimation
(d) Authority and forms of political organization
(e) Single-gene mutation disorders in man
हिंदी में पढ़ें
निम्नलिखित प्रत्येक पर लगभग 150 शब्दों में टिप्पणी लिखिए : 10×5=50
(a) कालानुक्रमिक आयु-निर्धारण
(b) कुला की सांस्कृतिक प्रासंगिकता
(c) वंशागतिक और इसका अनुमान
(d) राजनीतिक संगठन के प्राधिकार और स्वरूप
(e) मनुष्य में एकल-जीन उत्परिवर्तन विकार
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Anthropology Paper 1 (UPSC). (a) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (b) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (c) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (d) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance | (e) write short notes: define > 3-4 key features > one example > one-line significance Full marks: Precise definitions, named theorists (Malinowski/Weber), and specific examples for all parts.
Definition of absolute dating methods
Principle of radiometric dating (e.g., C-14)
Distinction from relative dating
One specific example (e.g., C-14, K-Ar)
Definition of Kula (Trobriand Islands)
Description of exchange of valuables (mwali/soulava)
Mention of Malinowski's functionalist analysis
Significance for social cohesion/status
Definition of heritability (H2)
Distinction between broad and narrow sense
Mention of twin studies (MZ vs DZ)
Formula or logic of estimation
Definition of authority (legitimate power)
Weber's types (traditional, charismatic, legal)
Forms: Band, Tribe, Chiefdom, State
One example of a form
Definition of monogenic disorders
Mention of autosomal dominant/recessive
Mention of X-linked disorders
Two specific examples (e.g., Sickle cell, Cystic fibrosis)
(a) Discuss the geographical distribution of Homo erectus. Taking into account its physical features, where does it fit in human evolutionary line? 20 marks
(b) Discuss the applications of forensic anthropology with suitable examples. 15 marks
(c) How does Lévi-Strauss look at the Tsimshian myth of Asdiwal? Critically discuss Lévi-Strauss' theory of structuralism in the light of his study of mythologies. 15 marks
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) होमो इरेक्टस के भौगोलिक वितरण की विवेचना कीजिए। इसकी भौतिक विशेषताओं के दृष्टिगत, मानव विकासक्रम रेखा में इसका उपयुक्त स्थान कहाँ होगा? 20 अंक
(b) उपयुक्त उदाहरणों के साथ फोरेंसिक मानव-विज्ञान के अनुप्रयोगों पर चर्चा कीजिए। 15 अंक
(c) लेवी-स्ट्रॉस सिमशी आस्दीवाल मिथक को कैसे देखते हैं? मिथकों के अध्ययन की रोशनी में लेवी-स्ट्रॉस के संरचनावाद के सिद्धांत की आलोचनात्मक विवेचना कीजिए। 15 अंक
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Anthropology Paper 1 (Physical & Social). (a) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (b) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close | (c) critique: the claim > its strengths > its weaknesses > your judgment Full marks: Comprehensive, well-structured, with specific examples and critical analysis.
Map Old World sites (Africa, Asia, Europe)
Detail key physical features (brow ridges, cranial capacity)
Position in evolutionary line (H. habilis to H. sapiens)
Mention Out of Africa or Multiregional context
Define forensic anthropology
Explain identification of skeletal remains
Discuss age, sex, and stature estimation
Provide a suitable example (e.g., mass disaster)
Levels of analysis of Asdiwal (geographic, techno-economic, sociological, cosmological) and its oppositions
Link to Tsimshian social structure (matrilineal descent vs patrilocal residence; failed matrilocal marriages)
(a) Critically explain the notion of 'deconstruction' in the light of the postmodern works of Jacques Derrida. 20 marks
(b) What is a multifactorial trait? Illustrate your answer with suitable human examples. 15 marks
(c) Discuss the applicability of various sampling techniques in selecting the study group. 15 marks
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) जाक् देरिदा के उत्तर-आधुनिकतावादी कार्यों के आलोक में 'विखंडन' की धारणा की आलोचनात्मक व्याख्या कीजिए। 20 अंक
(b) बहुषटकीय विशेषक क्या है? अपने उत्तर को उपयुक्त मानवीय उदाहरणों से स्पष्ट कीजिए। 15 अंक
(c) अध्ययन समूह के चुनाव में विभिन्न प्रतिचयन तकनीकों की प्रयोज्यता की विवेचना कीजिए। 15 अंक
Answer approach & key points
Framework: UPSC Anthropology Paper 1 (Sociology/Methodology). (a) critique: the claim > its strengths > its weaknesses > your judgment | (b) define: precise definition > the distinguishing feature > one example | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Precise definitions, named examples, clear distinction between concepts, and critical analysis where required.
50Mcritically examineSocial stratification, ABO and Rh blood groups, biocultural evolution
(a) Examine critically the concept of social stratification as a basis for sustaining social inequality. 20 marks
(b) Describe the genetics and inheritance patterns of the ABO and Rh blood groups in man. 15 marks
(c) Critically discuss the synergistic effect of biological and cultural factors in human evolution. 15 marks
हिंदी में पढ़ें
(a) सामाजिक असमानता की निरंतरता के आधार स्वरूप सामाजिक स्तरीकरण की अवधारणा का आलोचनात्मक परीक्षण कीजिए। 20 अंक
(b) मनुष्य में ABO और Rh रक्त समूहों के आनुवंशिकी और वंशानुक्रम विन्यासों का वर्णन कीजिए। 15 अंक
(c) मानव विकास में जैविक और सांस्कृतिक कारकों के सहक्रियात्मक प्रभाव की आलोचनात्मक चर्चा कीजिए। 15 अंक
Answer approach & key points
Framework: Anthropology Paper 1 (Physical & Social). (a) examine: intro > how/why with reasoning > evidence > conclusion | (b) describe: define > structure or process in order > labelled diagram > significance | (c) discuss: intro > 3-4 dimensions > example > balanced close Full marks: Precise definitions, named theorists, clear diagrams, Indian context.
Define stratification and its link to inequality
Explain the functionalist view (Durkheim, Parsons, Davis–Moore) that stratification is necessary
Explain the conflict (Marxist) view of stratification as exploitation, and critique both
Apply to the Indian caste system (Dumont, Srinivas, Béteille)
Define ABO alleles (IA, IB, i) and dominance
Explain Rh factor (D antigen) genetics
Show Punnett square or inheritance chart
Mention ABO/Rh polymorphism in human populations
Define biological evolution (genetic change)
Define cultural evolution (technological/social change)
Explain co-evolution (e.g., brain size and tool use)