The Core of Comte's Philosophy

Comte's magnum opus, 'The Philosophy of Auguste Comte', outlines his comprehensive system of thought, known as Positivism. Central to this work is the idea that true knowledge is based on observation and scientific method, much like the natural sciences. The book heavily emphasizes the evolution of human thought and society itself, proposing a fundamental law that governs this evolution: the Law of Three Stages. Furthermore, Comte envisioned a new secular religion, 'Religion of Humanity', focused on veneration of progress and the scientific method, aiming to provide social cohesion in a post-religious world. He also lays the groundwork for a systematic study of society, which forms the basis of sociology as a science.