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Why are social phenomena likely to be the last to enter this line of thinking, according to Comte?

A. Social Sciences Lack Empirical Foundations
B. Society Is Inherently Resistant to Change
C. Humans Are Inherently Irrational
D. Social Phenomena Are Too Complex to Analyze

User ScottKoon
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Final answer:

Auguste Comte theorized that social phenomena are complex and difficult to empirically analyze, which is why they would be the last to enter scientific thinking, aligning with Comte's concept of positivism. This complexity arises from the dynamic nature of social interactions and human behavior.The correct option is D.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to Auguste Comte, social phenomena are likely to be the last to enter the line of scientific thinking because D. Social Phenomena Are Too Complex to Analyze. Comte, through his law of three stages, displayed an understanding that as societies evolve, they move toward a more rational and empirical understanding of the world. In the final stage, known as positivism, science would base knowledge on observable, empirical facts and logic. However, Comte recognized that the complexity of social phenomena, given their inherently dynamic and intricate nature involved with human behavior and interactions, posed a significant challenge to systematic study and empirical observation.

Consequently, while natural sciences could rely on controlled experiments and observable, measurable phenomena, the social sciences dealt with variables that are less controllable and more difficult to measure objectively. This complexity makes the empirical study of society more challenging, hence Comte theorized that sociology, or the study of society, would evolve after the natural sciences had established their methodologies.

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