"Gupta Sociology of Education" is a comprehensive and authoritative Hindi-language book meticulously designed for students pursuing the Master of Arts in Sociology, specifically in their third semester at Panjab University, Chandigarh. Authored by the esteemed academics P. L. Arora, Nanda, and Sachdeva, and published by the trusted Pepsu Book Depot, this book is the prescribed and essential guide for the paper SOC O 937: Sociology of Education. It is structured to provide an in-depth, syllabus-centric exploration of the dynamic relationship between education and society, aligning perfectly with the latest curriculum and examination pattern.
The book systematically covers all four units as mandated by the Panjab University syllabus. Unit I establishes the foundational framework, beginning with the concept of education and its intricate link with society. It delves into critical processes like socialization and cultural and social reproduction. A significant strength of this section is its detailed exposition of major theoretical approaches, including the Gandhian perspective, functionalist and conflict theories, and the contemporary postmodern approach. This multi-paradigm analysis equips students with the analytical tools necessary to critically evaluate educational systems.
Unit II shifts focus to the transformative role of education in development. It examines the role of education in social and human development from emerging perspectives and provides a crucial analysis of education as a tool for the empowerment of marginalized sections, including Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and women. This unit also offers a critical examination of positive discrimination and affirmative action policies in India, linking theoretical concepts with ground-level social justice imperatives.
Unit III offers a detailed historical and policy-oriented overview of education in India. It charts the expansion and growth of the system, detailing key constitutional provisions and educational policies. The book addresses both fundamental goals and contemporary challenges, covering the Universalization of Elementary Education (UEE), the ongoing crises in Indian higher education, and the rapid expansion of professional education and the private sector. This unit is vital for understanding the structural evolution and current dilemmas within the Indian educational landscape.
Unit IV provides a critical sociological analysis of inequality through the lens of education. It explores the core concepts of education and social stratification, with dedicated chapters analyzing the intersections of caste and education, gender and education, and class and education. Furthermore, it investigates the countervailing force of education and social mobility, debating the equality of educational opportunities. This section is indispensable for understanding how education can both perpetuate and challenge existing social hierarchies.
An invaluable feature of this book is its tailored pedagogical design. It includes a section dedicated to Short Answer Type Questions, which is specifically crafted to help students prepare for the compulsory first question in the Panjab University exam, which carries 20 marks. The content is presented in clear, accessible Hindi, ensuring mastery of complex sociological terminology and concepts for Hindi-medium students. The book strictly adheres to the Panjab University MA Sociology 3rd Semester syllabus, making it a reliable and focused resource for exam preparation. It not only aims to help students succeed in their examinations but also to foster a deep, critical understanding of the sociology of education as a vital discipline for comprehending modern Indian society.
