AUGUSTE COMTE (1798-1857)

AND POSITIVISM

What is Positivism?

· “In the positive state, the mind has given over the vain search after absolute notions, the origin and destination of the universe, and the causes of phenomena, and applies itself to the study of their laws. Reason and observation, duly combined, are the means of this knowledge.” (1830)

--A rejection of theology

--Incorporating scientific method to social analysis

Characteristics of Positivism:

1. “The first characteristic of the positive philosophy is that it regards all phenomena as subjected to natural laws. Our real business is to analyze accurately the circumstances of phenomena, and to connect them by the natural relations to succession and resemblance.”

--Connecting Phenomena: “The ultimate perfection of the positive system would be to represent all phenomena as particular aspects of a single general fact.” The connection of natural relations creates a single whole.

--The process is the product. Comte’s vision is not an “end,” but a methodology. The means determine the end, and means are often considered the end in themselves.

2. “The positive method can be judged of only in action. We may talk forever about the method…without knowing half so much about it as the person who has once put it in practice upon a single particular of actual research.”

--The experience induces genuine understanding

The Implications of Positivism:

1. “The positive philosophy will lead us to a social condition the most comfortable to human nature, in which our characteristic qualities will find their most perfect respective confirmation, their completest mutual harmony, and the freest expansion for each and all.”

--Mutuality, mutual enhancement

2. “When [Positivism] has become complete, its supremacy will take place spontaneously, and will re-establish order throughout society.”

--“spontaneously”/naturally overtake, become throughout

--“supremacy” or “the system of general ideas that must henceforth prevail among the human race.”

For Thought:

Are we fully understandable using strictly the scientific method, that is, using reason and observation?

Can positivism bring social harmonic-unity?