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1822: Comte's Hierarchy of Science
Comte ranked different sciences from ancient to modern increasing in complexity.
1: Mathematics
2: Astronomy
3: Physics
4: Chemistry
5: Biology
6: Sociology
Comte instructed others to follow this hierarchy as a way to understand and correctly order universal laws, thus creating his own way to understand the universe. -
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1830 - 1842: Comte's Law of Three Stages
Comte's Law of Three stages explained Comte's belief that sociology could identify 3 major stages to the development of a global society. Those stages being:
Theological - Comte believed that at this stage, people viewed the world as a direct expression of the will of the various gods people believed in
Metaphysical - Comte believed at this stage, people viewed the world and natural events as natural reflections of human tendencies
Positivity - Refers to modern science as we know it now -
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1830 - 1842: The Course on Positive Philosophy
The Course of Positive Philosophy was a series of written texts drafted by Comte between 1830-1842. In the texts he unveiled the concept of positivism, a term used to describe an approach to the study of society that relies specifically on empirical scientific evidence. This is when he also coined his own brand of science known as sociology, to study society as a whole -
1844: The Year Like No Other
1844 marked the year where Comte was rocketed into his self proclaimed "second career". The main of this career was continued dominance of the heart. Comte launched himself into teaching his philosophies, as well as writings in mathematics and astronomy. He also took a rather intense fascination with Clotide de Vaux, another French Philosopher. In fact, his fascination with her was so intense it led him to find and lead a cult known as the Religion of Humanity. -
1849: Positivism
Auguste's philosophy on positivism became more prevalent throughout his teachings. Positivism being the philosophical movement in sociology, stating the idea that social phenomena should be studied through the same lens and methods of natural sciences (i.e., the utilization of the scientific method). Comte was called the Father of Positivism, as he brought up the need to keep society together as numerous traditions were experience a great die-off. -
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1851 - 1854: Comte's System of Positive Polity
Comte wrote in great detail of the veils between morality, religion, and society as a whole. In it, he formulated that secular sociologist should guide society and control education and public morality. While those who wish to worship a god, should continue to do so. He also stated that government should be led by businessmen and bankers. It's at this point where Comte begins to see himself imbued with a "spiritual power" as he saw science as the spiritual basis for for social order. -
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1854 - 2022: Modern Thoughts on Positivism/Conclusion
As of today, many scientists and philosophers find Comte's ideas, while empowering and somewhat applicable to modern life, rather totalitarian. Comte's philosophies had visible limits, but their value has not diminished. In fact, many still refer to Comte's work as a look of how politics, religion, and society has changed and what trend all of them could go on as time progresses.
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