The title of the ‘Father of Sociology’ is commonly attributed to Auguste Comte. He was a French philosopher who lived in the 19th century and is credited with establishing sociology as a distinct academic discipline.
Comte introduced the idea that society could be studied scientifically, much like the natural sciences. He believed that understanding social order and progress was essential for the improvement of society. Comte’s vision included the use of observation, experimentation, and comparison to analyze social phenomena.
His work laid the groundwork for future sociological research and theory, making him a pivotal figure in the development of sociology as a field. By coining the term ‘sociology,’ he sought to create a systematic approach to studying human societies, their structures, and the relationships within them.