Positivism is a philosophical theory that emphasizes the importance of observable phenomena and empirical evidence. It asserts that knowledge should be based on scientific methods and facts rather than speculation or metaphysics. This approach seeks to understand the world through data and experimentation, focusing on what can be measured and verified. The movement was largely developed by Auguste Comte, who believed that human thought progresses through three stages: theological, metaphysical, and scientific. Positivism has influenced various fields, including sociology, psychology, and natural sciences, promoting a systematic and objective approach to understanding human behavior and society.