Sociology is the most underrated optional subject in UPSC civil services exam, whereas Political Science is an overrated optional subject in UPSC Civil services exam.

The reason why Political science is a popular optional is because of the following myth:

Many people, especially UPSC aspirants, often perceive Political science as a subject that solely deals with politics. However, political science encompasses a much broader range of topics beyond politics.

Political science is the study of various aspects of governance, including political systems, institutions, and behaviour. It covers various topics related to political theory, public policy, international relations, comparative politics, and political economy. Political scientists analyze the structures and processes of governance, the distribution of power, and the relationship between the state and society. Political science explores the interactions of individuals and groups within political systems and examines how political decisions impact society and governance.

Therefore, it is important to recognize that political science is not about politics, but rather a multidisciplinary subject that encompasses various fields of study.

Sociology optional is popular among IAS rankers

 Sociology optional vs Political Science optional, For UPSC Civil Services exam

 Some important points to consider when comparing sociology and political science as optional subjects for UPSC Civil services exam.

1. Syllabus and content:
   The syllabus for sociology optional is comparatively shorter and more concise than political science. Sociology involves the study of society, culture, and human behavior, while political science covers various topics related to governance, political theories, and international relations.
2. Availability of study materials:
   Sociology has a wide range of study materials available in the market, making it easier for aspirants to access and prepare. On the other hand, political science has fewer study materials, and the availability of updated study materials is a significant concern for aspirants.
3. Conceptual understanding:
   Sociology concepts are relatively easier to understand and grasp than political science. Political science involves complex concepts and theories, and the aspirants need to have a good understanding of the subject.
4. Scoring potential:
   Sociology is a more scoring subject in the UPSC optional exam than political science. Sociology optional is considered to be a more objective and analytical subject, and the aspirants can score high marks in it by presenting their understanding and critical analysis of the subject.

In conclusion, while both sociology and political science are challenging optional subjects, sociology might be considered an easier option for aspirants due to its concise syllabus, availability of study materials, and scoring potential. However, it’s essential to note that the choice of an optional subject ultimately depends on an individual’s interests, aptitude, and understanding of the subject.

Number of thinkers

Number of thinkers covered in the UPSC IAS sociology optional is relatively fewer than in the UPSC political science optional.

The sociology optional syllabus covers various concepts related to the study of society, culture, and human behavior. However, the number of sociological thinkers covered in the syllabus is relatively limited. The syllabus mainly focuses on the works of thinkers such as Emile Durkheim, Max Weber, and Karl Marx, along with some contemporary sociologists.

On the other hand, the political science optional syllabus covers a broad range of topics related to governance, political theories, and international relations. The syllabus includes the works of various political thinkers such as Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Mill, and Rawls, among others.

Why some people might find sociology concepts easier to understand than political science concepts?

1. Familiarity:
   Sociology concepts are often related to our daily lives and experiences, making them more relatable and easier to understand. On the other hand, political science concepts are often abstract and can be challenging to grasp.
2. Language:
   Sociology concepts are generally presented in simpler language than political science concepts. Political science concepts often use technical terms and jargon, which can be confusing for those not familiar with the subject.
3. Scope:
   Sociology concepts tend to have a narrower scope than political science concepts. Political science encompasses various areas such as governance, public administration, international relations, and political theories, which can be overwhelming for aspirants.
4. Methodology:
   Sociology concepts often rely on empirical data and research methods to explain social phenomena, making them more concrete and easier to understand. In contrast, political science concepts often rely on abstract reasoning and deductive logic, which can be difficult to follow.

The syllabus for the sociology optional in UPSC is comparatively shorter than that of political science optional

The sociology optional syllabus covers various topics related to the study of society, culture, and human behavior. It includes the following broad areas:

1. Sociological Thought: Theories of social structure and social change, sociological concepts, and their application to the study of social phenomena.
2. Methods of Sociological Research: Research methods, tools, and techniques used in sociology.
3. Social Structure: Social institutions, social stratification, and mobility, caste, class, gender, and race.
4. Social Change: Social change, social order, and social control.
5. Indian Society: Social structure, cultural diversity, and challenges of social transformation.

In contrast, the political science optional syllabus covers a broad range of topics related to governance, political theories, and international relations. It includes the following broad areas:

1. Political Theory: Political thinkers, concepts, and theories.
2. Indian Politics: Political institutions, processes, and issues in India.
3. Comparative Politics and International Relations: Comparative politics, international relations, and foreign policy.
4. Public Administration: Administrative theory, public policy, and governance.
5. Political Dynamics: Political parties, pressure groups, social and political movements, and electoral systems.
6. Political Economy: Economic policies and development.

While both subjects are popular, the sociology optional syllabus is relatively more concise and focused on the study of society, culture, and human behavior. On the other hand, the political science optional syllabus covers a more extensive range of topics related to governance, politics, and international relations.

Optional papers in UPSC are significant as they allow candidates to choose a subject of their choice, which they have studied or have an interest in. This provides an opportunity for candidates to showcase their depth of knowledge, understanding, and aptitude in a particular subject. The optional paper also accounts for a significant portion of the total marks in the UPSC exam. A well-chosen and well-prepared optional paper can significantly improve a candidate’s overall score and ranking in the UPSC exam. Therefore, the choice of an optional subject should be based on an individual’s interests, aptitude, and understanding of the subject matter. A well-prepared optional paper can also help a candidate to stand out from the crowd and increase their chances of success in the UPSC exam.