Pozitivism

Positivism is a philosophical theory that states that only knowledge gained through sensory experience and logical and mathematical treatment of such data is valid. It is a form of empiricism, emphasizing verifiable facts and the scientific method. Positivism was first articulated by Auguste Comte in the early 19th century and later developed by thinkers like John Stuart Mill and Émile Durkheim.

Comte, often considered the founder of sociology, believed that society progresses through distinct stages, culminating in a "positive" stage characterized by scientific reasoning. In this stage, knowledge is based on observation, experimentation, and the discovery of universal laws governing both the natural and social worlds. Positivism rejects metaphysical speculation and theological explanations as forms of knowledge.

The core tenets of positivism include the belief that empirical evidence is the foundation of all knowledge, that the scientific method is the most reliable way to acquire this knowledge, and that social phenomena can be studied using the same objective methods as the natural sciences. This approach aims to establish causal relationships and predict future events based on observed patterns.

While influential, positivism has faced criticism. Some argue that it oversimplifies complex social realities and neglects subjective experiences, values, and interpretations. Critics also point out that the idea of purely objective observation can be challenged, as the observer's own perspective can influence what is observed and how it is interpreted. Despite these critiques, positivist principles have had a significant impact on the development of many academic disciplines, particularly in the social sciences.