Altruism

Comte first introduced the concept of altruism in his Système de politique positive (System of Positive Polity; 1851-54). In this landmark study, the philosopher proposes to develop a science of social structures based on the thorough analysis of human behavior. According to Comte, human beings are inherently social, with an innate capacity to cooperate. By cultivating their altruistic tendencies, he asserts, humanity can channel this fundamental generosity toward the greater good. 

Comte contrasts this altruistic instinct with human egoism. Because it prioritizes limited, individual gains over broader benefits for humanity in general, egoism poses a critical challenge to achieving social harmony and general prosperity. In order to overcome this obstacle, Comte suggests, human beings must train their minds so that their altruistic traits become dominant. In other words, individuals must view themselves as servants of humanity – each focused on acting morally on behalf of others – rather than maintaining what Comte views as a parasitical, self-interested relationship to the collective.

The emergence of altruism as a factor in the shaping of social structures represents, for Comte, a critical stage in human intellectual history. In Système de politique positive, Comte identifies three distinct phases of human culture. In the theological phase, human existence is believed to to derive from divine causes, which ultimately determine moral behavior. In the second, metaphysical stage, humanity conceives of abstract concepts to explain phenomena, using these ideas to create a legal and ethical framework for their actions. In the third, positivist stage, human beings gain a deeper understanding of experience through rigorous scientific study, allowing them to make informed choices to build a just and equitable society based on reason. 

In Comte’s worldview, individuals have a fundamental duty to act on behalf of humanity as a whole. Indeed, the positivist philosopher regarded the fulfillment of this obligation as a prerequisite for realizing one’s full potential as a human being. Small acts of altruism from assorted individuals are ultimately insufficient – rather, the advance of human civilization relies on the triumph of altruism over egoism within all human beings. Comte regarded the pursuit of a world founded on altruistic principles as a “Religion of Humanity.”

By developing a conception of generosity rooted in knowledge and reason, Comte created a self-consciously modern framework for a systematic, empirical approach to philanthropic activity. At the same time, Comte’s altruistic ideal presents a new standard for society, challenging individuals to pursue meaningful lives on behalf of their fellow human beings. 

Contributor: Stephen Meyer