IASNOVA

IASNOVA

  • Joined: February 27, 2019
  • Articles: 361

Robert K. Merton’s Theory of Reference Groups: UPSC Sociology

Robert K. Merton’s Theory of Reference Groups A comprehensive, exam-ready module on Merton’s Reference Group Theory — with explanatory paragraphs, visual flowcharts, and responsive tables for fast conceptual recall for UPSC Sociology. 1️⃣ Background and Origins Merton developed the Reference…

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Emile Durkheim’s Theory of Suicide: UPSC Sociology Module

Émile Durkheim’s Theory of Suicide 1️⃣ Background and Purpose Émile Durkheim published Le Suicide (1897) as the first systematic, data-driven sociological study of suicide. His goal was to show that even an intensely personal act has social causes, anchored in…

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The “Iron Cage of Bureaucracy” — Max Weber

The “Iron Cage of Bureaucracy” — Max Weber 1) What Weber Meant Weber used the metaphor “iron cage” to describe the condition of modern individuals and institutions caught within systems of formal rationality—fixed rules, calculation, documentation, and hierarchical control. Bureaucracy…

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Max Weber Theory of Ideal Types: UPSC Sociology

Max Weber — Theory of Ideal TypesWeber’s methodological tool for analyzing and comparing complex social phenomena through abstract conceptual models. Exam Focus Concept of Ideal Type, its nature, uses, examples like bureaucracy and capitalism, and its criticism — all key…

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Max Weber’s Theory of Social Action: UPSC Sociology Module

Max Weber’s Theory of Social ActionWeber’s interpretive framework that studies subjective meanings individuals attach to their actions. Exam Focus Covers meaning of social action, types of action, Verstehen, Ideal Type, and rationalization — crucial for Paper I (Sociological Thinkers). 1️⃣…

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Robert K. Merton’s Theory of Manifest Functions & Latent Functions

Robert K. Merton’s Theory of Manifest FunctionsIntended and recognized consequences of a social action or institution. & Latent FunctionsUnintended and unrecognized consequences—often revealing hidden social patterns. Exam Focus Distinguish between stated purposes and actual consequences; cite classic cases (e.g., rain…

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ROBERT K. MERTON- Quick Revision Module for UPSC Sociology

Robert K. Merton: Essential Sociological Theories for UPSC A comprehensive summary of Latent and Manifest Functions, Conformity and Deviance (Strain Theory), and Reference Groups for quick UPSC Sociology revision. Merton’s Core Sociological Theories: Quick Reference Theory Core Concept Revision Focus…

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World War II : Quick Revision Module for UPSC Exam

🌍 World War II (1939–1945): A Complete Summary 1. Background and Causes World War II was the deadliest conflict in human history, lasting from 1939 to 1945, involving over 60 nations and resulting in approximately 70–85 million deaths. It was…

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WORLD WAR I – Quick Revision Module for UPSC Exam

🌍 World War I (1914–1918): A Complete Summary 1. Background and Causes World War I, also called the Great War, began on 28 July 1914 and lasted until 11 November 1918. It was primarily fought between two alliances: Allied Powers:…

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Karl Marx vs Max Weber: Quick Revision Module

Differences Between Karl Marx and Max Weber: A Comparative Summary While both Karl Marx and Max Weber are considered founding fathers of sociology, their methodologies and interpretations of society, power, and capitalism stand in stark contrast. Marx founded the **Conflict…

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Conflict Zones in the World- UPSC Quick Revision

World: Current Conflict Regions (2025) Hover over acronyms for meanings. Region / Country Main Parties Type What’s happening (very brief) Ukraine Russia vs Ukraine (+ allies’ support) NIAC Active frontlines, strikes, attrition war. Gaza & Israel / West Bank Israel…

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Max Weber Quick Revision

Max Weber’s Theories: Quick Revision for UPSC Max Weber’s theories are foundational to sociology and are crucial for the UPSC syllabus. His approach emphasized the role of **ideas, values, and rationality** in shaping society, often in dialogue with Karl Marx’s…

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Karl Marx – Fastest Revision Spreadsheet

Karl Marx — Theories in a Nutshell (Hover for Meanings) 1) Historical Materialism Concept Explanation Base & Superstructure Economic base determines superstructure. Material Conditions Material/economic forces drive history, not ideas. Dialectical Process Change via contradictions → Thesis → Antithesis →…

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Psychology UPSC 2023 Question Paper and Solutions- Paper 2

Question 1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each: (a) Compare directional and non-directional therapies with reference to their effectiveness. Directional therapies (like psychoanalysis and behavior therapy) focus on structured, therapist-driven interventions. These therapies guide the patient towards…

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Sociology Paper 1 UPSC 2023 – Questions and Solutions

SECTION- A Question no 1. Answer the following questions in about 150 words each: (10-5-50) a) What is the distinctiveness of the feminist method of social research? Comment. Answer Feminist method of social research challenges traditional positivist approaches, emphasizing the…

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Sociology UPSC 2023 Questions and Solutions – Paper 2

SECTION ‘A’ Write short answers, with a sociological perspective, on the following questions in about 150 words each:a). Highlight the significant features of A.R. Desai’s ‘Dialectical Perspective’ to study Indian Society. Answer- A.R. Desai’s dialectical perspective focuses on the study…

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Sociology and Common Sense

Sociology and common sense are two ways of understanding the world around us, but they differ significantly in their approach, methods, and scope. While common sense refers to everyday knowledge that is taken for granted, Sociology is a scientific discipline…

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Comparison of Sociology With Other Social Sciences

Sociology, like other social sciences, seeks to understand human behavior and societal dynamics. However, it differs in its focus, methods, and scope. Below is a detailed comparison of Sociology with Psychology, History, Economics, Philosophy, Anthropology, and Political Science. 1. Sociology…

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Scope of Sociology Discipline

The Scope of Sociology Sociology is a broad discipline that seeks to understand the social structures, institutions, and interactions that shape human life. Its scope is vast, covering a wide range of topics related to human behavior, relationships, and the…

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500 Most Probable Topics- List 12

Content visible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers To Subscribe, Click Here 1. Pandaram Lands Lakshadweep administration is actively numbering trees on Pandaram lands. Pandaram lands definition according to the Laccadive Minicoy and Amini Islands Land Revenue and Tenancy Regulation, 1965:…

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500 Most Probable Topics- List 11

Content visible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To subscribe, CLICK HERE 1. Changpa Tribe: Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk and Leh Apex Body (LAB) decided to call off the Pashmina border march aimed at highlighting the plight of the Changpa nomadic…

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500 Most Probable Topics- List 10

Content visible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To subscribe, CLICK HERE 1. DEEP SEATED MINERALS Deep-seated minerals are those that are found deep within the Earth’s crust, typically at depths greater than 300 meters. These minerals are often of high value…

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500 Most Probable Topics- List 9

Content visible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To subscribe, CLICK HERE 1. ISRO’s X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XpoSat) Launch Launch Announcement: ISRO has launched XpoSat, its first X-ray Polarimeter Satellite, to study X-ray polarization from cosmic sources like Black Holes, Neutron…

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500 Most Probable Topics- List 7

Content visible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To subscribe, CLICK HERE 1. Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership – DEEP CSIR-CCMB, Hyderabad joins Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP). DEEP aims to study genetics of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in diverse populations. Five-year international…

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500 Most Probable Topics- List 6

Content visible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To subscribe, CLICK HERE 1. Indian Space Policy 2023 Aims to foster a commercial space presence with robust private sector involvement. Key Entities for Private Sector Participation: InSPACe: Single-window clearance for space activities,…

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500 Most Probable Topics- List 5

Content visible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To subscribe, CLICK HERE 1. Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 The Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme 2024 is designed to boost Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption in India, with a budget of Rs. 500 crore…

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500 Most Probable Topics- List 4

Content visible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To subscribe, CLICK HERE 1. Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) Recently, an official delegation from the Department of Science and Technology visited Mauna Kea to discuss “challenges” to the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project.…

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500 Most Probable Topics- List 3

Content visible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To subscribe, CLICK HERE 1. Koya Tribes Koya Tribe conserves Indian Bison by stopping the use of horns for traditional flutes. Located in Papikonda, Andhra Pradesh, and also in Madhya Pradesh and Orissa. Speak Gondi, Telugu,…

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500 Most Probable Topics- List 2

Content visible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To subscribe, CLICK HERE 1.  Stratospheric Aerosol Intervention (SAI): Geoengineering method that involves injecting reflective aerosols into the stratosphere to reflect sunlight and cool the Earth, aiming to counteract global warming. Modeled after…

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GM Mustard, GM Crops, GEAC – Prelims 2024

GM MUSTARD The Government of India has stated to the Supreme Court that Genetically Modified (GM) mustard could reduce the cost of quality edible oil and benefit national interest by decreasing foreign dependency. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) has…

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Diseases in News – Prelims 2024

KYASANUR FOREST DISEASE- Recently reported in Karnataka Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) is a tick-borne viral hemorrhagic fever endemic to South Asia, particularly in India. Here are the key points about KFD: Cause: Caused by the Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus (KFDV),…

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Maldives and Lakshadweep Islands

Maldives and Lakshadweep have been in news in the recent past prominently and IASNOVA considers them important topics for UPSC Prelims 2024 around which questions can be asked, whether general information related to both or map-based questions, or questions on corals and reefs.

Temple Architecture- Prelims 2024

In News- The Ram Mandir, which is being supervised by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, is designed in the Nagara style of architecture.   NAGARA STYLE OF TEMPLE ARCHITECTURE The Nagara style of temple architecture, prevalent in North…

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Defence Topics for Prelims 2024

All the topics have been picked from updates by ISRO and DRDO. UPSC generally asks questions from their updates/ news.   Content accessible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To Subscribe, Click Here Mission Divyastra- AGNI V, MIRV India announced successful…

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Space Topics for Prelims 2024

All topics have been picked from updates given by DRDO AND ISRO. UPSC asks questions mostly from their updates.     Content accessible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To Subscribe, Click Here SPACE ISRO’s Milestone in Gaganyaan Mission Human-Rating of…

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GI Tags in News – UPSC 2024

Content accessible only to IASNOVA PRO Subscribers. To Subscribe, Click Here Geographical Indication (GI) Tag Definition: A GI tag is a sign used on products with a specific geographical origin, conferring an assurance of quality and distinctiveness. Protection: Ensures only…

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Corporate Governance- Ethics Paper

Introduction Corporate Governance refers to the system by which companies are directed and controlled.The principles of corporate governance are crucial for civil servants to understand, as they often interact with the corporate world and need to ensure that public interests…

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Ethical Issues in International Relations

Introduction Ethical issues in international relations encompass a complex spectrum of concerns arising from the interactions between different nations. These interactions are governed not just by political and economic interests but are also deeply influenced by ethical considerations. The field…

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Philosophical Basis of Governance and Probity

Introduction The philosophical basis of governance and probity delves into the ethical frameworks and moral principles that underpin the functioning of governments and public institutions. This concept is rooted in the belief that governance should be guided by ethical considerations,…

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Concept of Public Service

Introduction Public service is a concept central to governance and the administration of public affairs. It is pivotal in UPSC’s ethics syllabus, which expects aspirants to have a thorough understanding of its various dimensions. This concept extends beyond mere employment…

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Probity in Governance

Introduction In the realm of governance, probity stands as a cornerstone, reflecting the ethical integrity and uprightness expected in the administration and management of public affairs. It’s a principle that underpins the trust between the government and its citizens, ensuring…

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Emotional Intelligence- Concepts

Emotional intelligence (EI) is a multifaceted concept that has gained significant attention in psychology, leadership, and organizational behavior. Evolution of the Concept of Emotional Intelligence Early Concepts: The roots of EI can be traced back to theories of social and…

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Social Influence and Persuasion

Social Influence Social influence involves the ways in which individuals change their behavior to meet the demands of a social environment. It’s a fundamental process by which people’s beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors are molded by those around them. Types of…

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Moral and Political Attitudes

Moral Attitudes Moral attitudes refer to the predispositions or orientations individuals have towards ethical principles, values, and judgments. They play a crucial role in guiding behavior and decision-making, especially in situations involving moral or ethical dilemmas. Nature of Moral Attitudes:…

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Attitude’s Influence and Relation with Thought and Behavior

Attitude’s influence on and relation with thought and behavior is a crucial area of study in psychology and ethics. Attitudes significantly shape how individuals think and behave, impacting their decision-making processes, interpersonal interactions, and overall approach to various situations. Attitude…

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Kantianism

Kantianism, a philosophical theory developed by Immanuel Kant in the 18th century, emphasizes the principles of rationality, autonomy, and the moral law. It represents a significant shift from the consequentialist framework of utilitarianism to a deontological ethical theory, where the…

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Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism, a prominent ethical theory, is principally concerned with the maximization of happiness or utility. It was primarily developed in the 18th and 19th centuries by thinkers like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill. This philosophy assesses the moral worth…

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Stoicism

Stoicism, a school of Hellenistic philosophy, was founded in Athens by Zeno of Citium in the early 3rd century BCE. It’s known for teaching the development of self-control and fortitude as a means to overcome destructive emotions. The philosophy holds…

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Epicureanism

Epicureanism is a philosophical system based on the teachings of the ancient Greek philosopher Epicurus. It advocates for a life of moderate pleasure, guided by morality, rationality, and the pursuit of tranquility. The ethical dimensions of Epicureanism can be explored…

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ARISTOTLE

Aristotle (384–322 BC) Background Aristotle, a student of Plato and tutor to Alexander the Great, is one of the most important founding figures in Western philosophy. His works cover various subjects, including ethics, where he made significant contributions that continue…

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PLATO

Plato (428/427 or 424/423 – 348/347 BC) Background Plato was a student of Socrates and later became the teacher of Aristotle, forming a foundational trio in Western philosophy. His work is central to understanding ethics and morality, significantly influencing Western…

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SOCRATES

Socrates (469-399 BC) Background Socrates, an ancient Greek philosopher, is one of the founders of Western philosophy. His work and ideas laid the groundwork for ethics and moral philosophy. He’s known not for penning books, but for engaging in dialogues,…

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Tiruvalluvar- Lessons from Life and Teachings

Tiruvalluvar, a celebrated Tamil poet and philosopher, is best known for his work, the ‘Tirukkural’, a collection of couplets on ethics, political and economic matters, and love. Dating back to somewhere between the 3rd century BCE and the 1st century…

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Guru Nanak- Lessons from Life and Teachings

Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus, was an influential spiritual and social reformer. Born in 1469 in the Punjab region of South Asia, his teachings laid the foundation for Sikhism and have…

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Guru Ravidas- Lessons from Life and Teachings

Guru Ravidas, a prominent North Indian mystic poet-saint of the Bhakti movement during the 15th to 16th century, left a significant impact on Indian society and spirituality. His teachings, deeply embedded in devotional songs and verses, revolved around spiritual equality,…

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Kautilya- Lessons from Life and Teachings

Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, was an ancient Indian teacher, philosopher, economist, jurist, and royal advisor. He is traditionally identified as the author of the Arthashastra, a classical Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy. His life and…

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Sri Rabindranath Tagore- Lessons from Life and Teachings

Rabindranath Tagore, a luminary of Indian culture, was a poet, writer, philosopher, educator, and Nobel laureate. Beyond his literary genius, Tagore was a visionary who advocated for educational and social reforms, and his thoughts on nationalism, internationalism, and spirituality continue…

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Narayana Guru- Lessons from Life and Teachings

Narayana Guru, a spiritual leader and social reformer from Kerala, India, played a pivotal role in the social reform movement against caste discrimination in the early 20th century. His teachings and actions focused on promoting social equality, spiritual enlightenment, and…

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Swami Dayananda Saraswati- Lesson from Life and Teachings

Swami Dayananda Saraswati, a prominent Hindu religious leader and the founder of the Arya Samaj, significantly impacted Indian society in the 19th century. His teachings and reformist activities focused on reviving Vedic ideologies and practices, challenging prevailing religious superstitions, and…

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Raja Ram Mohan Roy- Lesson from Life and Teachings

Raja Ram Mohan Roy, often regarded as the father of the Indian Renaissance, was a prominent social and educational reformer in the 19th century. His life and teachings offer a wealth of lessons in ethics, social justice, and religious reform,…

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Sri Aurobindo- Lesson from Life and Teachings

Sri Aurobindo, an influential spiritual leader, philosopher, and nationalist, made significant contributions to the fields of spirituality, ethics, and human potential. His life and teachings provide profound insights into the integration of spiritual practices with daily life, offering valuable lessons…

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Ramakrishna Paramahamsa- Lesson from Life and Teachings

Ramakrishna Paramahansa, a 19th-century Indian mystic and spiritual leader, left an indelible mark on the spiritual and ethical landscape of India and beyond. His life and teachings offer profound insights into the nature of spirituality, devotion, and ethical living. Here,…

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Swami Vivekananda- Lesson from Life and Teachings

Swami Vivekananda, a key figure in the introduction of Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world, remains an influential spiritual leader whose teachings offer profound insights into the realm of ethics. His life and teachings provide valuable…

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Ethics – in Private and Public Relationships

Ethics in private and public relationships is a broad topic that encompasses the moral principles and standards guiding human interactions in both personal and professional spheres. Understanding the nuances of ethics in these different contexts is essential for fostering healthy…

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