Pros and Cons of Taking Anthropology as an Optional in the Civil Services Examination CSE

Choosing anthropology as an optional subject in the Civil Services Examination (CSE) is a decision that carries significant weight. This article explores the pros and cons of this choice, providing a comprehensive overview to help aspirants make an informed decision.

Pros of Taking Anthropology

Interdisciplinary Nature

Interdisciplinary: Anthropology combines insights from social sciences, biology, history, and archaeology, offering a broad understanding of human societies. This interdisciplinary nature can be highly beneficial in the General Studies papers, where a well-rounded perspective is advantageous.

Concise Syllabus

Concise Syllabus: The syllabus for anthropology is relatively shorter compared to other optional subjects. This makes it easier to cover comprehensively, providing a clear focus for study.

Scientific Approach

Scientific Approach: Anthropology incorporates scientific methods and research, which can be appealing to candidates with a scientific background. This approach helps in developing analytical thinking and deepens understanding of complex human phenomena.

Relevance to Current Affairs

Relevance to Current Affairs: Many topics in anthropology relate to contemporary social issues, cultural conflicts, and human rights. This relevance can be advantageous in the essay and interview stages of the CSE, where current trends and issues are often evaluated.

Scoring Potential

Scoring Potential: Candidates who have a strong grasp of the subject and can articulate their answers well often find anthropology to be scoring. The evaluation is based on the understanding of concepts rather than rote memorization, making it a rewarding subject for those who excel in explaining why rather than just regurgitating facts.

Interest Factor

Interest Factor: If you have a genuine interest in human societies, cultures, and evolution, studying anthropology can be engaging and fulfilling. The diverse topics involved can keep your interest piqued and motivate you to explore more.

Cons of Taking Anthropology

Limited Resources

Limited Resources: There may be fewer coaching centers and study materials available for anthropology compared to more popular subjects like public administration or geography. This can make preparation challenging and may require you to find alternative resources, such as online courses or academic journals.

Complex Concepts

Complex Concepts: Some students may find certain anthropological theories and concepts complex and difficult to understand. This can require more time and effort to grasp, potentially affecting your preparation timeline.

Subjectivity in Evaluation

Subjectivity in Evaluation: Answers in anthropology can sometimes be subjective, leading to variability in scoring based on the examiner's perspective. This subjectivity can be a challenge for some candidates, who may prefer more objective evaluation methods.

Less Popularity

Less Popularity: Anthropology is not as commonly chosen as other subjects like public administration or geography. This can limit peer support and discussion, making it easier to feel isolated or unsupported during your preparation.

Dependence on Optional for Overall Score

Dependence on Optional for Overall Score: Since the optional subject carries significant weight in the overall score, performing poorly in anthropology could adversely affect your chances of success in the examination. It is crucial to perform well in this subject to ensure a balanced overall score.

Conclusion

Choosing anthropology as an optional subject in the CSE can be advantageous if you have a strong interest in the subject and are prepared to engage with its complexities. It is crucial to assess your strengths, interests, and the availability of resources before making a decision. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your personal preferences and preparation strategy.

Note: While anthropology offers a wealth of insights and relevance to the CSE, it is essential to weigh the pros and cons carefully to ensure that it aligns with your goals and capabilities.