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positivism

positivism
Noun

This term describes a rigorous adherence to empirical evidence and logical proof, often rejecting metaphysics or intuition. In a general philosophical sense, it carries a connotation of scientific objectivity and a belief that the world can be understood through observable facts.

In the specific context of legal theory, it creates a sharp distinction between what the law is and what the law ought to be. This perspective views law as a social construct created by human authority, stripping away the assumption that legal validity requires a moral justification.

Meanings

Nounpositivism

A philosophical system that recognizes only that which can be scientifically verified or which is capable of logical or mathematical proof.

The rise of positivism in the nineteenth century shifted the focus of sociology toward empirical observation.

Nounpositivism

A legal theory asserting that law is a set of rules created by human beings and that there is no necessary connection between law and morality.

Legal positivism argues that the validity of a law depends on its source rather than its inherent justice.

Examples

The professor explained how positivism rejects any knowledge that cannot be empirically verified.

School Life

I wonder if positivism is too restrictive for a complete understanding of human emotion.

Legal positivism suggests that the validity of a law depends on its source rather than its morality.

Auguste Comte is often credited as the founder of positivism in the nineteenth century.

History

Do you think positivism leaves enough room for metaphysical speculation?

School Life

The judge adhered to a strict form of legal positivism when ruling on the statute.

The rise of logical positivism in the early twentieth century transformed the field of philosophy.

History

He believes that positivism provides the only reliable framework for scientific inquiry.

It seems that positivism ignores the inherent connection between law and ethics.

Related Words

empiricismmetaphysicsidealismrationalismscienceevidenceobservationverificationfalsificationlogicphenomenologyepistemologyontologyinductiondeductionfacttheoryempiricalsociologynaturalismobjective
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