Definitions

1. noun

A philosophical system that emphasizes the possibility of objective knowledge and the power of human reason, often associated with Auguste Comte, or a belief in the power of reason and science to improve the world.

“The politician’s speech reflected a strong sense of positivism, emphasizing the importance of empirical evidence in policy-making.”

2. noun

A theory that the only knowledge is scientific knowledge, and that the only reality is what can be observed or measured.

“The scientist’s positivism led her to dismiss the spiritual aspects of the ancient culture as unverifiable.”

3. adjective

Characterized by or based on the principles of positivism.

“The positivist approach to history emphasizes the importance of empirical evidence in understanding the past.”