What are the pros and cons of taking anthropology as an optional in CSE?

For aspiring civil servants in India, the Civil Services Examination (CSE) is a highly competitive and coveted gateway to a career in public service. One of the crucial components of the CSE is the optional subject, which allows candidates to showcase their expertise and interest in a specific field. Among the numerous optional subjects available, Anthropology has emerged as a popular choice in recent years.

Anthropogy UPSC

Anthropology, the study of human societies, cultures, and behaviors, may seem like an unconventional choice for a career in civil services, but it offers a unique perspective on understanding human dynamics, social structures, and cultural diversity. However, like any other optional subject, taking Anthropology in the CSE has its advantages and disadvantages. While it may provide a distinctive edge in understanding the complexities of human societies, it also requires a significant investment of time and effort to master its nuances.

In this context, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons of taking Anthropology as an optional in the CSE, to help aspirants make an informed decision about their choice of optional subject. This discussion aims to delve into the benefits and drawbacks of choosing Anthropology as an optional, and provide insights into its relevance, challenges, and opportunities in the context of the CSE

pros and cons of taking anthropology as an optional in CSE

When deciding whether to take anthropology as an optional subject in the Civil Services Examination (CSE), it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully. Here are some points to consider:

Pros of Taking anthropology optional ias

1. Overlapping content: Anthropology covers topics such as society, culture, and human behavior, which are relevant to various papers in the CSE, including General Studies and Essay writing. This overlap can help you prepare for multiple papers simultaneously, making it a more efficient use of your study time.
2. Scoring potential: Some candidates find anthropology to be a scoring optional subject because it is considered relatively more objective and less interpretative compared to other subjects. This means that if you have a good understanding of the concepts and can answer questions clearly and concisely, you may be able to score higher marks.
3. Interest and aptitude: If you have a genuine interest in anthropology and feel that you have an aptitude for the subject, you may find studying it to be engaging and enjoyable. This can make the learning process more enjoyable and motivate you to work harder.

Read:- Best Anthropology Optional IAS Coaching for UPSC

Cons of taking anthropology UPSC optional

1. Specialized knowledge:-Anthropology requires a specialized knowledge base that you may not have prior exposure to. This could mean a steep learning curve and more effort required for preparation, especially if you’re not familiar with the subject matter.
2. Subjectivity in evaluation: While anthropology is considered relatively objective, there is still an element of subjectivity in evaluation. Your performance may depend on the examiner’s interpretation of your answers, which can be unpredictable.
3. Limited utility: Compared to other optional subjects like Public Administration or Sociology, anthropology may have limited utility in the broader context of the Civil Services Examination. This means that the knowledge and skills you gain from studying anthropology may not be as applicable to other areas of the exam.

Read: best teacher for UPSC Anthropogy Optional

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Faqs)

Q) what is major pro of Anthrpology optional ias ?

Ans:- A major pro of Anthropology optional in IAS is its interdisciplinary nature, which helps in developing a holistic understanding of society, culture, and human behavior, making it easier to tackle questions in GS papers and other optional subjects

Q) Is there any advanatge in taking Anthropogy as an optional subject in UPSC CSE?

Ans:- Yes, taking anthropology as an optional subject can have several advantages. It provides a unique perspective on human societies, cultures, and behaviors, which can enhance critical thinking, analytical skills, and understanding of social dynamics. Additionally, anthropology’s interdisciplinary approach can complement other subjects, such as sociology, history, and political science.

Q) What is one pro and one cons of Anthropogy UPSC CSE Optional Subject?

Ans:-

Here are one pro and one con of Anthropology as an optional subject in IAS:

• Pro: Anthropology’s interdisciplinary approach helps in understanding various aspects of human society, making it easier to tackle questions in GS papers and other optional subjects.
• Con: The vast syllabus and lack of clear boundaries between topics can make it challenging to prepare and stay focused

Q)  Who got the highest marks in anthropology optional?

Ans:-
Lakshmi N made a remarkable achievement in the field of Anthropology by securing the highest marks in the subject, scoring an impressive 362. This feat highlights the potential of Anthropology as a high-scoring optional subject in the UPSC examination

Final Tips

• If you do decide to take Anthropology as an optional, make sure to start preparing early and consistently.
•  Focus on developing a strong foundation in social sciences, particularly sociology, history, and philosophy.
• Read widely and stay updated on current events and issues related to anthropology.
• Practice answering questions and writing essays to improve your writing skills and time management.
•  Join a study group or online community to connect with other aspirants and stay motivated.
• By weighing the pros and cons carefully and making an informed decision, you can increase your chances of success in the CSE examination

Ultimately, the decision to take anthropology as an optional subject in the CSE depends on your individual strengths, interests, and goals. If you’re willing to put in the effort to learn and master the subject, and you have a genuine interest in anthropology, it may be a good choice for you. However, if you’re unsure or lack prior knowledge in the subject, you may want to consider other options.