Positivism is an approach to study and determine; how society operates and function, by means of scientific method. The term positivism was introduced in nineteenth century by “Auguste Comte”. Theory was based on the assumption that, there is possibility to observe and obtain valid knowledge regarding social life and how society works, scientifically. The concept of positivism was revealed by, “Auguste Comte” in his books “The course of in positive philosophy” and “A General view of positivism”. In the mentioned books he argued that, sociology should be concerned with the phenomenon, which can be observed with senses. Theories regarding social life should be developed in a rigid, methodological and linear way, on the bases of valid and reliable facts.
Background of Positivism
Comte was interested in the establishment of social theories, which can be tested scientifically. His motive behind the approach was to unveil the natural laws which could be practically applied to the society. He believed that, natural sciences like, biology and physics prepare the ground for the development of social science. According to August Comte, universal laws can be discovered in sociology similar to natural sciences universal laws, for example “law of gravity” in physics.
Principles of Positivism
There are five core principles of positivism, which are given below.
• The logic of analysis are similar in all the branches of science.
• The objective behind analysis is to determine, predict and explain the problem.
• Research ought to be based on empirical observation by human senses.
• Science is not based on common sense.
• Science should be examined unbiasedly by logic.