Unlock Elite Access: Level Up Your Preparation with Exclusive Content

Sociology Optional PYQ Solutions · Model answer

What, according to Robert Michels, is the iron law of oligarchy? Do lions and foxes in Vilfredo Pareto’s theory essentially differ from each other? Substantiate.

  • UPSC 2023
  • Politics and Society

Both halves of the question come from classical elite theory, which denies that the many can ever rule. Robert Michels finds the reason inside organisations; Vilfredo Pareto finds it in the psychology of those who rule. Michels explains why a few rise to the top, and Pareto how the few are replaced.

You are reading the opening of the model answer. The full answer is part of Sociology Optional PYQ Solutions.

What the full answer covers

  • Michels's iron law of oligarchy
  • Pareto's lions and foxes
  • Do they essentially differ?
  • Conclusion

Unlock this answer and 1,500+ more

  • 1,500+ solved UPSC Sociology PYQs from 1985 to 2026, Paper-1 and Paper-2
  • Topic-wise across all 25 syllabus units, newest exam year first
  • A full model answer for every question, shaped to 10 or 20 marks, with thinkers and Indian examples
  • Read online on lotusarise.com, plus PDF download

₹1,499₹2,50040% off

Get Sociology Optional PYQ Solutions @ ₹1,499 →

One-time payment · 12 months of access · Instant access · UPI, cards, RuPay

See every Politics and Society question (110 solved) →Already enrolled? Log in