The idea of progress is used as a synonym for progress and improvement in relation to a specific topic. It means that there is a process of evolution with respect to the matter that is being dealt with.
In any theme there is an evolution or the opposite, an involution. It is commonly said that there is improvement when it is understood
that there is a positive direction in the development of a reality.
Progress as an idea is used as a debate that affects the concept of humanity. In this sense, many thinkers continue to wonder if humanity really progresses by having more sophisticated techniques and tools. In a strict sense, there is clear progress, because technology brings obvious benefits. Although certain advances are debatable and, consequently, cause one to question whether they are strictly synonymous with true progress.
In the 19th century, the philosophical movement of positivism arose. The main idea of this current affirmed that humanity as a whole was going in a direction of permanent renewal and that path expressed that the history of man was driven by the spirit of progress. As an anecdote related to positivism, it must be remembered that it was this movement (led by Augusto Comte) that inspired the motto of the Brazilian flag: order and progress.
In politics the term progress is widely used. There are political groups that call themselves progressive, implying that there are others who are against progress. Progressivism is a set of ideas that are at odds with others, specifically conservatism. They are two ideological trends present in most nations. They communicate that there are two ways of understanding reality. Progressivism incorporates an approach of permanent renewal: civil and social rights, environmentalism, citizen participation mechanisms, etc. And conservatism takes a different line: traditional values related to firm criteria about the family, culture and the mentality of a people.
Talking about progress implies opening a debate. Each current of thought defends its sense of progress. It is evident that progress is not simply an accumulation of technical aspects. In order to affirm that there is true progress, one must consider whether the apparent progress of a reality (legislative, scientific or educational) really means greater well-being for humanity.
Following