ABSTRACT
This chapter interprets the seven reformers in line with 19th century positivism. After briefly summarizing Wallerstein’s statements on the social sciences as an aspect of the Modern World-System’s geoculture, the chapter demonstrates that the thought of most of these reformers had positivist elements. This is achieved by drawing from their writings and speeches with respect to three aspects, which are constitutive of 19th century positivism: first, they held natural science in high regard with some of them also having empiricist and naturalist leanings. Second, views quite similar to the three stages of knowledge as formulated by Auguste Comte were expressed by a few of them. Third, views reminiscent of Herbert Spencer, especially with respect to the ‘struggle for existence’ can be found in some of their thoughts. In the chapter’s conclusion it is argued that the positivism of the religious reformers was shaped by the fact that their stages were set in peripheral countries rather than core ones. It is also suggested that positivism should be given greater attention within the context of Wallerstein’s geoculture.
