1. Theological stage: In this stage, Comte believed that society was governed by religious beliefs and superstitions. He argued that people explained natural phenomena through the lens of religion and believed in supernatural forces.
2. Metaphysical stage: In this stage, Comte believed that society began to move away from religious explanations and started to use abstract concepts and philosophical ideas to explain the world. He argued that people began to question traditional beliefs and sought rational explanations for natural phenomena.
3. Positive stage: In this final stage, Comte believed that society would be guided by scientific principles and empirical evidence. He argued that people would use the scientific method to understand and improve society, leading to progress and social harmony. Comte believed that sociology would play a key role in this stage, helping to study and understand social phenomena.