positivism

[ˈpɑzətɪvɪzəm]

positivism Definition

• 1. a philosophical theory that knowledge is based on natural phenomena and their properties and relations, and not on supernatural or spiritual explanations
• 2. a system of thought that regards scientific observation as the highest form of knowledge

Using positivism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "positivism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Positivism emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence in the formation of knowledge.

• Example

  The positivist approach to social science seeks to apply the methods of the natural sciences to the study of human behavior.

• Example

  Logical positivism is a branch of positivism that emphasizes the importance of logical analysis and verification in the formation of knowledge.

positivism Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for positivism

• empiricism
• naturalism
• logical positivism

Phrases with positivism

• legal positivism

  a legal theory that holds that the law is a set of rules and principles created by human beings, rather than a reflection of natural or divine law

  Example

  Legal positivism is often contrasted with natural law theory.

• scientific positivism

  a view that scientific knowledge is the only authentic knowledge, and that it can only come from scientific method, and that such knowledge can only come from affirmation of theories through strict scientific method

  Example

  Scientific positivism was a major influence on the development of modern science.

• ethical positivism

  a moral theory that holds that ethical statements are factual statements that can be verified or falsified through empirical observation

  Example

  Ethical positivism is often associated with the work of philosopher A.J. Ayer.

Origins of positivism

from French 'positivisme', coined by Auguste Comte in the early 19th century

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Summary: positivism in Brief

Positivism [ˈpɑzətɪvɪzəm] is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence in the formation of knowledge. It regards scientific observation as the highest form of knowledge and seeks to apply the methods of the natural sciences to the study of human behavior. Positivism extends into legal, scientific, and ethical contexts, exemplified by 'legal positivism,' 'scientific positivism,' and 'ethical positivism.'