CGPSC MAINS 2016 Paper-7

Points to Remember: Customary law is unwritten law based on long-standing traditions and practices. It varies significantly across cultures and communities. Its recognition and enforcement depend on the legal system of a particular jurisdiction. It often interacts with and is influenced by formal legal systems. Challenges exist in codifying and enforcing customary law. Introduction: Customary … Read more

Points to Remember: This question requires a factual response. The keywords are “Verrier Elwin,” “books,” “Tribes of Middle India,” and “major.” The approach is purely factual, focusing on identifying specific book titles. Introduction: Verrier Elwin (1902-1964) was a prominent British anthropologist and administrator who dedicated his life to studying and advocating for the tribal communities … Read more

Points to Remember: Distinction between faith-based belief and reasoned inquiry. Focus on the nature of the divine and the human condition. Methods of inquiry and justification. Relationship between belief and practice. Introduction: Religion and Philosophy of Religion, while interconnected, represent distinct approaches to understanding the divine and humanity’s place in the cosmos. Religion, broadly defined, … Read more

Points to Remember: Key characteristics of social institutions. Key characteristics of associations. Distinguishing features between institutions and associations. Examples of each. Introduction: A social institution is a complex and enduring pattern of social relationships that fulfills fundamental societal needs. These are not simply groups of people, but established systems of norms, values, and roles that … Read more

Points to Remember: Social groups are formed based on shared characteristics, goals, and interactions. Several factors influence group formation, including proximity, similarity, and shared goals. Different types of social groups exist, each with unique characteristics and dynamics. Understanding group formation is crucial for managing social interactions and promoting social harmony. Introduction: Social groups are fundamental … Read more

Points to Remember: Caste is a hereditary, hierarchical social system based on birth. Class is a social stratification based on economic factors like wealth, income, and occupation. Caste is primarily associated with South Asia, while class is a global phenomenon. Caste systems are often rigid and endogamous (marriage within the group), while class systems are … Read more

Points to Remember: Prarabdha Karma is the portion of accumulated karma that manifests in the present life. It’s considered inescapable in its immediate effects. Mitigation, not destruction, is the focus in various philosophical traditions. Spiritual practices aim to reduce the intensity of its impact and improve future karmic outcomes. Introduction: The concept of Prarabdha Karma … Read more

Points to Remember: The Niyamas are the second limb of Patanjali’s eight-limbed path of Yoga. They are internal observances focusing on self-discipline and ethical conduct. There are five main Niyamas: Saucha (Purity), Santosha (Contentment), Tapas (Self-Discipline), Svadhyaya (Self-Study), and Ishvara Pranidhana (Surrender to a Higher Power). Each Niyama contributes to inner peace and spiritual growth. … Read more

Points to Remember: Six distinct schools of thought. Emphasis on understanding reality (Brahman) and liberation (moksha). Diverse approaches to epistemology (pramana) and metaphysics. Historical influence on Indian culture and thought. Introduction: Indian philosophy, a rich tapestry of thought spanning millennia, is broadly categorized into six distinct schools, often referred to as the shad-darshanas. These schools, … Read more