5 Minute Series Sociology vs Common Sense Key Differences, Similarities & Exam Answer

Follow me on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/ziasafir?ut... in this 5 Minute Series lecture, we break down the important UPSC topic: Sociology and Common Sense. Many aspirants are confused whether sociology is just an extension of everyday beliefs. This video gives you a clear, exam-ready structure to tackle this question with confidence. Context: Sociology emerged in response to challenges posed before modernity in medieval Europe. Since it studies everyday issues like family, religion, crime and development, many assume that sociology is nothing but common sense. But the truth is more nuanced. Step 1: Defining the Terms Common sense → everyday beliefs and assumptions people carry, rarely tested or questioned. Sociological knowledge → systematic, based on theory, evidence, reasoning and testing. It frames concepts, develops hypotheses and seeks objective explanations. Step 2: Key Differences Origin: Sociology arises from tested theories; common sense comes from assumptions and traditions. Objectivity & Coherence: Sociology aims for objective and consistent insights, while common sense often contradicts itself (e.g., “birds of a feather flock together” vs “opposites attract”). Generalisability: Sociology generalises findings through research; common sense remains limited to individual experience. Example: sociology shows crime can have functions (Durkheim) beyond “crime is bad.” Attitude to Change: Common sense often preserves status quo (like caste beliefs), while sociology critiques and enables reform. Stereotypes vs Critique: Common sense relies on folk images; sociology investigates structural causes. Step 3: Similarities and Connections Starting Point: Sociology often begins where common sense leaves questions. Mutual Enrichment: Common sense critiques sociology; sociology refines common sense when accepted widely. Examples to Use in Answers: Green Revolution: Common sense says it increased food production. Sociology reveals migration, feminisation of agriculture, sex ratio imbalances. Labelling Theory (Becker): Folk wisdom “give the dog a bad name…” is transformed into systematic sociological theory. Step 4: The Sociologist’s Stance Peter Berger calls sociology a debunking discipline — it questions the “taken for granted,” exposes hidden patterns, and shows that what seems natural may actually be social and changeable. This critical edge is rooted in sociology’s origins in times of social upheaval. Conclusion: The relationship between sociology and common sense is intricate. Sociology is more than common sense because it tests, theorises, and critiques, but common sense remains a vital starting point for sociological inquiry. Postmodernists even caution that no single truth exists. For exam writing, highlight mutual stimulus rather than superiority. This crisp framework — definition, differences, similarities, examples, and conclusion — will help you write a perfect 10-marker answer in UPSC Sociology Optional.#SociologyAndCommonSense, #SociologyVsCommonSense, #SociologyUPSC, #UPSCMains, #UPSCOptional, #CommonSenseKnowledge, #SociologicalKnowledge, #PeterBerger, #DebunkingSociology, #GreenRevolutionSociology, #LabellingTheory, #AugusteComte, #Durkheim, #Weber, #Marx, #UPSCPreparation, #SociologyAnswerWriting, #SociologyExam, #SociologyThinkers, #UPSCOptionalSociology, #UPSC10Marker, #UPSCNotes, #SociologyConcepts, #EverydayLifeAndSociology, #UPSC5MinuteSeries