CBSE Class 11 – Sociology Question Paper 2023

SECTION – A

Question 1:

The contemporary history now also focuses on social patterns, gender, relations, customs, etc. The credit for it goes to…

(a) Political science

(b) Sociology

(d) Social Anthropology

Answer: (b) Sociology

Question 2:

Whose idea led to the comparison of the society with living organisms?

(a) Max Weber

(b) Auguste Comte

(d) Karl Marx

Answer: (b) Auguste Comte

Question 3:

Which of these is an example of a quasi group?

(a) Classmates

(b) Office colleagues

(d) Relatives

Answer: (c) Cinema audience

Who among the following used the term ‘life chances’ which refer to the rewards and advantages afforded by market capacity?

(a) Emile Durkheim

(b) Karl Marx

(d) None of these

Answer: (c) Max Weber

Question 4:

Assertion (A): In traditional India different castes formed a hierarchy of social precedence. Reason (R): Every aspect of the life of every individual and household is affected by stratification.

(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.

(d) A is false but R is true.

Answer: (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

Question 5:

Which of the following is the most common form of marriage?

(a) Polygamy

(b) Polyandry

(d) Polygyny

Answer: (c) Monogamy

Question 6:

Assertion (A): Religion cannot be studied as a separate entity.

Reason (R): Social forces always and invariably influence religious institutions.

(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.

(d) A is false but R is true.

Answer: (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

Question 7:

Who is the founder of the functional school of Anthropology?

(a) Leslie White

(b) Edward Taylor

(d) Bronislaw Malinowski

Answer: (d) Bronislaw Malinowski

The most important agent of Socialisation in the early childhood is—–

(a) Family

(b) Peer groups

(d) Mass media

Answer: (a) Family

Question 8:

Culture refers to the intangible elements of culture.

(a) Material

(b) Non-material

(d) None of these

Answer: (b) Non-material

Question 9:

Shared ideas or beliefs serve to justify the interests of dominant groups is known as the

(a) Political ideology

(b) Dominant ideology

(d) None of these

Answer: (b) Dominant ideology

Question 10:

The social structure of society is stratified due to the……….

(a) Division of labour

(b) Difference in an individual’s position.

(d) The different level of understanding of individuals.

Answer: (c) Inequality persistent in society

Question 11:

Assertion (A): In the contemporary world, competition is the dominant norm and practice.

Reason (R): Traditionally the family and households were often seen as harmonious units where cooperation was the dominant process.

Answer: (b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.

Question 12:

….. includes a continuous urban settlement that is many times the size of a single city.

(a) Urban Agglomeration

(b) Town

(d) Commercial city

Answer: (a) Urban Agglomeration

Question 13:

Assertion (A): Change is faster to arrive in villages than in towns.

Reason (R): The social structure in village tends to follow a more traditional pattern. Institutions like caste and religion are stronger here.

Answer: (d) A is false but R is true

Question 14:

Which of the following is the outcome of human action?

(a) Deforestation

(b) Climate change

(d) All of these

Answer: (d) All of these

Question 15:

Which of the following concepts is the basis of relationships in a society?

(a) Concept of capitalism

(b) Concept of hierarchical society

(d) Concept of conflicts

Answer: (c) Concept of ownership of property

Question 16:

Assertion (A): The interaction between environment and society is shaped by social organisation.

Reason (R): Property relations determine how and by whom natural resources can be used.

Answer: (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

Question 17:

Who among the following laid the foundation of sociology as a subject?

(a) Karl Marx

(b) Emile Durkheim

(d) All of these

Answer: (d) All of these

Question 18:

Marx’s conception of the economy was based on the concept of……….

(a) Mode of production

(b) Mode of organization

(d) Political basis

Answer: (a) Mode of production

Question 19:

The book “Caste and Race in India” was the work of which of the following Indian Sociologists?

(a) Sarat Chandra

(b) Govind Sadashiv Ghurye

(d) D.P. Mukherji

Answer: (b) Govind Sadashiv Ghurye

Question 20:

He was strongly influenced by Marxism, though he had more faith in it as a method of social analysis than as a political program¹ for action.

(a) Ananthkrishna Iyer

(b) D.P. Mukherji

(d) G.S. Ghurye

Answer: (b) D.P. Mukherji

SECTION – B

Question 21:

What is the meaning of the term Dialect?

Answer:

A dialect is a variety of a language that is spoken by a particular group of people in a specific region or social group. It differs from the standard form of the language in terms of vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, and intonation. Dialects are often influenced by factors such as geographical location, social class, and ethnicity.

Question 22:

What are Sanctions?

Answer:

Sanctions are penalties or punishments imposed by one country or group of countries on another country or group. They are typically used to exert political or economic pressure, often in response to undesirable behavior such as human rights violations, aggression, or non-compliance with international agreements. Sanctions can take various forms, including economic sanctions (trade restrictions, financial penalties), diplomatic sanctions (withdrawal of diplomatic relations), and military sanctions (embargoes on arms sales).

Question 23:

Explain the term Social Mobility.

Answer:

Social mobility refers to the movement of individuals or groups within a social hierarchy. It can be upward (moving to a higher social position),¹ downward (moving to a lower social position), or horizontal (moving within the same social position). Social mobility can be influenced by various factors such as education, occupation, income, and social networks.

Question 24:

What do you understand by the term Great Tradition?

Answer:

The term “Great Tradition” refers to the high culture of a society, typically associated with the elite and intellectual class. It encompasses elements such as classical literature, art, music, philosophy, and religion. The Great Tradition is often contrasted with the “Little Tradition,” which refers to the folk culture and everyday practices of ordinary people.

Question 25:

What do you mean by the term Gated Communities?

Answer:

Gated communities are residential areas that are physically separated from the surrounding environment by fences, walls, or other barriers. They often have controlled access and security measures, such as guards or surveillance systems. Gated communities are seen by some as a response to concerns about crime and urban sprawl, while others criticize them for creating social exclusion and exacerbating inequality.

Define Gentrification.

Answer:

Gentrification is the process by which affluent individuals move into previously low-income neighborhoods, leading to a rise in property values and the displacement of existing residents. This often results in the transformation of the neighborhood’s character, with the influx of new businesses, shops, and housing that cater to the tastes and preferences of the affluent newcomers.

Question 26:

Explain the term Emissions.

Answer:

Emissions refer to the release of substances into the environment, such as air, water, or soil. These substances can include pollutants, greenhouse gases, and other harmful substances. Emissions are a major concern for environmental issues like air pollution, climate change, and water pollution.

What do you understand by the term ‘Effluent’?

Answer:

Effluent refers to liquid waste discharged into the environment, such as wastewater from industrial processes, sewage treatment plants, or agricultural runoff. It can contain pollutants that can harm aquatic ecosystems and human health.

Question 27:

Explain the term Hydrology.

Answer:

Hydrology is the scientific study of water on Earth. It encompasses the water cycle, including precipitation, evaporation, transpiration, infiltration, and runoff. Hydrologists study various aspects of water, such as its distribution, movement, and quality, to understand and manage water resources effectively.

Question 28:

What are Social Facts?

Answer:

Social facts, as defined by sociologist Émile Durkheim, are social structures and cultural norms that exist independently of individuals and exert a coercive influence on their behavior. Examples of social facts include laws, customs, institutions, and shared beliefs.

Question 29:

What is the meaning of the term ‘Assimilation’?

Answer:

Assimilation is the process by which individuals or groups of people adopt the cultural norms, values, and behaviors of the dominant group in a society. It often involves giving up one’s own cultural identity and language in favor of the dominant culture.

SECTION – C

Question 30:

What is Sociology? Discuss sociology as a science.

Write down the scope of sociology in detail.

Answer:

Sociology is the scientific study of human society, social behavior, and social relationships. It examines how individuals interact with each other, how groups are formed and function, and how societies change over time.

Sociology as a Science:

Sociology employs scientific methods to study social phenomena.
It uses systematic observation, data collection, analysis, and interpretation to understand social patterns and trends.
It seeks to develop theories and explanations for social phenomena, and to test these theories through empirical research.
It aims to be objective and value-free, although recognizing the inherent subjectivity in social research.

Scope of Sociology:

Sociology covers a wide range of topics, including:

Social Structure: The study of social institutions, social groups, and social stratification.
Social Interaction: The study of how individuals interact with each other, including communication, relationships, and social behavior.
Culture: The study of shared beliefs, values, norms, and practices within a society.
Social Change: The study of how societies change over time, including social movements, technological advancements, and globalization.
Deviance and Crime: The study of social norms, deviance from those norms, and the social control mechanisms that maintain order.
Family and Marriage: The study of family structures, relationships, and dynamics.
Religion: The study of religious beliefs, practices, and institutions.
Politics: The study of power, authority, and government.
Economy: The study of economic systems, production, distribution, and consumption.
Education: The study of educational systems, institutions, and their impact on individuals and society.
Health and Medicine: The study of the social determinants of health and illness, and the role of healthcare systems in society.

Question 31:

What do you understand by primary groups? Discuss the importance of primary groups in society.

Answer:

Primary Groups:

Primary groups are small, intimate groups characterized by close, personal, and enduring relationships. Members of primary groups typically share deep emotional bonds, strong loyalty, and a sense of belonging. Examples of primary groups include families, close friends, and tightly-knit social circles.

Importance of Primary Groups:

Socialization: Primary groups play a crucial role in the socialization process, teaching individuals social norms, values, and behaviors.
Emotional Support: They provide emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging.
Identity Formation: Primary groups help individuals develop their sense of self and identity.
Social Integration: They foster social integration and a sense of community.
Social Control: They help to maintain social order and regulate individual behavior through informal means such as peer pressure and social norms.

Question 32:

What are political institutions? Also differentiate between power and authority.

Answer:

Political Institutions:

Political institutions are formal organizations that play a crucial role in the governance of a society. They are responsible for making and enforcing laws, maintaining order, and managing conflicts. Examples of political institutions include governments, political parties, legislatures, courts, and bureaucracies.

Power vs. Authority:

Power is the ability to influence or control the behavior of others, even against their will. It can be based on coercion, force, or manipulation.
Authority is the legitimate exercise of power. It is accepted by those who are subject to it as rightful and justified. Authority is often based on tradition, law, or charisma.

Question 33:

Discuss the cognitive, normative, and material dimensions of culture.

Answer:

Cognitive Dimension: This aspect of culture refers to the shared beliefs, knowledge, and ideas of a society. It includes language, myths, legends, stories, and scientific knowledge.
Normative Dimension: This dimension encompasses the rules, norms, and values that guide human behavior. It includes social norms, laws, customs, and moral codes.
Material Dimension: This aspect of culture refers to the tangible objects and artifacts created by a society. It includes tools, technology, art, architecture, and other material possessions.

Question 34:

What are some kinds of changes brought about by technology and the economy?

Answer:

Technology and the economy have brought about numerous changes in society, including:

Social Change: Technological advancements have led to changes in communication, transportation, and social interactions.
Economic Growth: Technological innovations have fueled economic growth and development.
Globalization: Technology has facilitated globalization, increasing interconnectedness between different parts of the world.
Job Market Changes: Technological advancements have led to the creation of new jobs and the displacement of others.
Environmental Impact: Technological development has both positive and negative impacts on the environment.

What is meant by social order and how is it maintained?

Answer:

Social order refers to the stable patterns of social behavior and relationships that allow a society to function smoothly. It is the set of norms, values, and institutions that govern social interactions and maintain stability.

Social order is maintained through a variety of mechanisms, including:

Socialization: The process by which individuals learn and internalize social norms and values.
Social Control: The mechanisms through which society regulates individual behavior and maintains order. This can include formal institutions like the law and informal mechanisms like social norms and peer pressure.
Consensus and Shared Values: Shared values and beliefs provide a common ground for social cohesion and cooperation.
Social Institutions: Institutions such as family, education, religion, and the government play a crucial role in maintaining social order.

Question 35:

What are some of the challenges to maintaining social order in urban areas?

Answer:

Maintaining social order in urban areas can be challenging due to factors such as:

Diversity and heterogeneity: Urban areas are often characterized by diversity in terms of ethnicity, religion, and socioeconomic status, which can lead to social tensions and conflicts.
Rapid urbanization and social change: Rapid urbanization can lead to social and economic disparities, environmental problems, and increased crime rates.
Social inequality: Urban areas often experience significant levels of social inequality, which can lead to social unrest and conflict.
Urbanization and environmental issues: Urbanization can lead to environmental problems such as pollution, traffic congestion, and resource depletion, which can threaten social order.

What is the importance of conserving the environment?

Answer:

Conserving the environment is crucial for the following reasons:

Sustaining life: A healthy environment provides the essential resources for human survival, such as clean air, water, and food.
Protecting biodiversity: Conserving the environment helps to protect biodiversity, which is essential for maintaining a healthy ecosystem.
Combating climate change: Protecting natural habitats and reducing greenhouse gas emissions are crucial for mitigating the effects of climate change.
Ensuring sustainable development: Environmental conservation is essential for sustainable development, which aims to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their

SECTION – D

Question 36:

What are the basic features of Bureaucracy?

Answer:

Basic Features of Bureaucracy (as per Max Weber):

Hierarchy: A clear chain of command with authority flowing from top to bottom.
Division of Labor: Tasks are divided into specialized roles and assigned to specific individuals or departments.
Rules and Regulations: Standardized procedures and regulations govern all aspects of the organization’s operations.
Impersonality: Rules and regulations apply equally to all members, regardless of personal relationships or status.
Formal Communication: Communication channels are formal and follow established procedures.
Competence: Appointments and promotions are based on merit and qualifications.
Record Keeping: Detailed records are maintained of all organizational activities.

What are the main features of the “Theory of Alienation”?

Main Features of the “Theory of Alienation” (as per Karl Marx):

Alienation from the product of labor: Workers are alienated from the products they create because they do not own them or have control over the production process.
Alienation from the process of labor: Workers are alienated from the act of production itself, as they are forced to perform repetitive, monotonous tasks that lack creativity and meaning.
Alienation from other workers: Competition and division of labor create alienation between workers, hindering solidarity and cooperation.
Alienation from oneself: Workers are alienated from their own human potential and creativity, as they are reduced to mere instruments in the production process.

Question 37:

What are the Structural features of caste as given by G. S. Ghurye?

Answer:

G.S. Ghurye, a prominent Indian sociologist, identified several key structural features of the caste system in India:

Hierarchy: Caste system is a hierarchical system with a strict ranking of castes based on purity and pollution.
Endogamy: Marriage is restricted within one’s own caste, maintaining caste boundaries.
Occupational Specialization: Traditionally, certain occupations were associated with specific castes.
Ritual Purity and Pollution: Caste system is based on the concept of purity and pollution, with certain castes considered “higher” and “purer” than others.
Social Exclusion: Lower castes faced social discrimination and exclusion from access to resources and opportunities.

Question 38:

Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow:

Competition and the whole laissez-faire economy of 19th century capitalism, may have been important in promoting economic growth. The exceptionally rapid development of the American economy may be attributed¹ to the greater scope of competition in the United States. But still, we cannot produce any exact correlations between the extent of competition, or the intensity of the competitive spirit, and the rate of economic growth in different societies. And on the other hand, there are grounds for supposing that competition has other less welcome effects.

1. Competition is the basis of capitalistic society. Justify.

Answer:

Yes, competition is considered the basis of capitalist society. In a capitalist system, individuals and businesses compete with each other for resources, markets, and profits. This competition drives innovation, efficiency, and economic growth. The pursuit of profit motivates individuals and businesses to produce goods and services, leading to economic development.

2. What are the key principles on which social stratification is based?

Answer:

Social stratification refers to the hierarchical arrangement of individuals and groups within a society. The key principles on which social stratification is based include:

Wealth and Income: Unequal distribution of wealth and income creates social hierarchies.
Occupation: Different occupations have varying levels of prestige and social status.
Education: Access to education and educational attainment play a significant role in determining social status.
Power: The ability to influence and control others is a key determinant of social status.
Social Prestige: Social prestige is associated with certain lifestyles, occupations, and social groups.