C'este donc par l'étude des mathématiques, et seulement par elle, que l'on peut se faire une idée juste et approfondie de ce que c'est qu'une science.
Auguste ComteRead
nd now that man's history has been for the first time systematically considered as a whole, and has been found to be, like all other phenomena, subject to invariable laws, the preparatory labours of modern Science are ended.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of organizing and understanding human history through a scientific lens.
Auguste Comte suggests that humanity's history can be analyzed just like any other natural phenomenon, which has led to the end of preliminary efforts in modern science. By recognizing that history follows invariable laws, Comte argues for the establishment of sociology as a discipline that uses scientific methods to understand societal development and human behavior.
Themes
HistoryScienceSociologyHuman BehaviorLaws
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to start a discussion about the importance of sociology in understanding societal changes.
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All quotes →The sacred formula of positivism: love as a principle, the order as a foundation, and progress as a goal.
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Language forms a kind of wealth, which all can make use of at once without causing any diminution of the store, and which thus admits a complete community of enjoyment; for all, freely participating in the general treasure, unconsciously aid in its preservation.
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If we do not allow free thinking in chemistry or biology, why should we allow it in morals or politics?
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To understand a science it is necessary to know its history.
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