Overview
This lecture covers Auguste Comte, the founder of positivism, his law of the three stages, and the impact of scientific method on modern philosophy and society.
Introduction to Comte and Positivism
- Auguste Comte (1798–1857) was born in Montpellier and died in Paris.
- Comte is considered the main founder of positivism, a philosophy that prioritizes scientific knowledge.
- Positivism dominated European thought from mid- to late-19th century.
- The scientific method, based on empirical and experimental approaches, should be applied to all forms of knowledge.
- Positivism rejects metaphysical and religious explanations, focusing only on observable facts.
Law of the Three Stages
- Comte’s major work, "Course of Positive Philosophy," introduces the law of the three stages of society.
- The first stage, the theological stage, interprets reality through magic, superstition, and divine explanations.
- The second stage, the metaphysical stage, uses abstract concepts and philosophical systems to explain reality.
- The third stage, the positive/scientific stage, replaces metaphysical questions with empirical investigation of how phenomena function.
Science and Society
- Sciences are ranked from simplest to most complex: mathematics, astronomy, physics, chemistry, biology, and finally sociology.
- Sociology studies human society as the most complex phenomenon, addressing both its structure (statics) and transformation (dynamics).
- The ultimate goal is to improve human well-being and progress through scientific understanding and governance.
Impact and Legacy of Positivism
- Positivism supports industrialism, advocating for an efficient, technical society organized scientifically.
- Philosophy and politics become subordinate to science and economics.
- The concept of "the Great Being" replaces God, symbolizing the collective humanity always moving towards progress.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Positivism — philosophical system recognizing only empirical, scientific knowledge as valid.
- Law of the Three Stages — Comte’s theory that societies progress through theological, metaphysical, and positive (scientific) stages.
- Sociology — the scientific study of society, social institutions, and relationships.
- Statics and Dynamics — subfields of sociology: statics studies societal order, dynamics studies change and progress.
- Great Being — Comte’s term for collective Humanity, replacing the concept of God.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the stages of Comte’s law and their characteristics.
- Read assigned sections of "Course of Positive Philosophy" for detailed understanding.