Hi Bille Nunkesh !

Anthropology is the study of man in totality including studying all kinds of societies and culture such as tribal and modern societies-their socio-culture institutions viz. marriage, family, kinship, economic institution, political system and belief pattern such as religion and magic. Anthropology also deals with prehistoric and modern societies i.e. socio-cultural evolution. Apart from these, Anthropology studies man as a creature i.e. studying origin and evolution of man and their physical variations from place to place. Thus, the syllabus of anthropology optional has been well maintaining the tradition i.e. holism. Whereas, other social sciences deal with man in a peace meal manner e.g. history studies past event of man, sociology deals with social structure of man not biological aspect of man at all, while economics & political science dealing with economic and political institution respectively. Choosing a best optional subject is a big deal for candidates. The Anthropology is a good choice as an optional for IAS Exam. But it depends on how much focus you put on understanding the concept. The subject is a science-oriented one. So, while answering the question for Civil service mains examination the answers should be stick to the point and crispy. One should add diagrams, flow chart wherever needed. To write a perfect answer one should have to practice answer writing and get evaluated. A self-assessment is essential before appearing any examination. The most recent syllabus is more scoring in nature.