What does positivism emphasize in understanding the world?

Positivism emphasizes scientific inquiry as the primary means of understanding the world. This philosophical approach asserts that knowledge is derived from empirical evidence and observable phenomena, therefore prioritizing measurable and verifiable data over subjective interpretations or speculation. Positivism advocates for the application of the scientific method in social sciences, suggesting that social phenomena can be studied with the same rigor and systematic handling as natural sciences.

This perspective aligns with the idea that facts and theories should be based on observable and testable evidence rather than intuition, artistic expression, or moral reasoning. While intuition and moral reasoning can provide insights into societal issues, positivism maintains that credible knowledge must be rooted in observable reality, thereby reinforcing the importance of quantitative analysis and experimentation in social research.