positivist Definition
- 1a person who believes that knowledge should be derived from scientific observation
- 2a philosophical system recognizing only that which can be scientifically verified or which is capable of logical or mathematical proof, and therefore rejecting metaphysics and theism
- 3a person who emphasizes observable facts and excludes metaphysical speculation about origins or ultimate causes
Using positivist: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "positivist" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The positivist approach to social science emphasizes empirical evidence over subjective experience.
Example
Positivists argue that only scientific knowledge is valid, and reject religious or supernatural explanations.
Example
In his work, the philosopher adopted a positivist stance, emphasizing the importance of empirical data and logical analysis.
positivist Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for positivist
Antonyms for positivist
Phrases with positivist
a philosophical movement that developed in the early 20th century, characterized by a focus on the logical analysis of language and the rejection of metaphysical claims
Example
Logical positivism was influential in the development of analytic philosophy.
a legal theory that emphasizes the role of social conventions and institutions in creating and enforcing law, rather than moral or natural law
Example
Legal positivism has been criticized for failing to account for the moral dimensions of law.
the view that scientific knowledge is the only authentic knowledge, and that scientific methods are the only reliable means of acquiring it
Example
Scientific positivism has been challenged by postmodern and feminist critiques of science.
Origins of positivist
from French 'positivisme', coined by Auguste Comte in the mid-19th century
Summary: positivist in Brief
A positivist [ˈpɑːzətɪvɪst] is someone who believes that knowledge should be derived from scientific observation. They emphasize observable facts and exclude metaphysical speculation about origins or ultimate causes. Positivism is a philosophical system that recognizes only that which can be scientifically verified or which is capable of logical or mathematical proof, rejecting metaphysics and theism. Examples of its use include 'The positivist approach to social science emphasizes empirical evidence over subjective experience.'
