Question

Which of the following is the third stage of Comte's law of three stages ?

• A. Metaphysical
• B. Positivism
• C. Theological
• D. Epistemology

Hint:

Remember Comte's three stages in order: Theological (Religion), Metaphysical (Philosophy/Abstract), and Positive (Science). The final stage, Positivism, is the foundation of his vision for sociology.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question refers to Auguste Comte's "Law of Three Stages," which describes the evolution of human thought and society.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Comte proposed that every society and every field of knowledge progresses through three distinct stages:
1. Theological Stage: In this stage, phenomena are explained by reference to supernatural beings, gods, or spirits. It is the fictitious stage.
2. Metaphysical Stage: In this stage, supernatural agents are replaced by abstract forces and essences to explain the world. It is the abstract stage.
3. Positive (or Scientific) Stage: This is the final and highest stage. Here, people seek to explain phenomena by observing, experimenting, and establishing scientific laws based on reason and evidence. The philosophy associated with this stage is Positivism.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The third and final stage of Comte's law is the Positive stage, also known as Positivism.