Sociology’s foundational principles can be traced back to the pioneering works of several key individuals: Auguste Comte, often hailed as the “Father of Sociology,” coined the term “sociology” and emphasized the importance of positivism. Émile Durkheim, known as the “Father of French Sociology,” studied social cohesion and anomie. Karl Marx, a prominent theorist, analyzed social conflict and class struggle. Max Weber, the “Father of German Sociology,” explored the role of ... Learn about Auguste Comte, the father of sociology and founder of positivism. Understand his law of three stages, contributions to social science, and lasting influence on modern sociology. French philosopher Auguste Comte greatly advanced the field of social science, giving it the name "sociology" and influenced many 19th-century social intellectuals. Auguste Comte, French philosopher known as the founder of sociology and of positivism. Comte gave the science of sociology its name and established the new subject in a systematic fashion. Learn more about Comte’s life and accomplishments in this article.