Question

Answer the following question in detail. (About 150 words)

You have studied about Comte’s Law of Three Stages of human thought. With reference to the first and third stage, comment on the challenges it poses for Indian society.

Answer 1

1. In the first stage of human thought (i.e. Theological Stage), it was believed that God is the creator and controller of all things. The challenges in this stage are:

1. Ideas and views lack a logical base as they are influenced by spiritual and supernatural factors.
2. The belief that God has a monopoly over all events may discourage individuals from working hard.
3. People may not take responsibility for their misdoings thinking that everything results from the action of supernatural beings.

2. In the third stage of human thought (i.e. Positive/Scientific stage), human beings resort to the improved and scientific form of thinking. The challenges in this stage are:

1. Individuals rely on reasoning and examination for obtaining knowledge. It requires them to carry out a detailed investigation of each phenomenon.
2. Individuals have to use observation instead of imagination to derive knowledge.
3. Sometimes, it may become difficult to establish laws that link facts and govern social life.