Who originally propounded the theory of three stages of social development?

Detailed Solution:

The correct answer is “Auguste Comte”.

Auguste Comte originally propounded the theory of three stages of social development. He proposed that societies evolve through three stages:

1) Theological stage: In this stage, people attribute social phenomena to supernatural forces or deities.

2) Metaphysical stage: In this stage, people explain social phenomena through abstract concepts or philosophical ideas.

3) Positive stage: In this stage, people use scientific methods to study and understand social phenomena.

Comte's theory was influential in the development of sociology and social science.