Ancient Civilizations & Modern Technology

Study Notes

Egyptians used a combination of oils, plants, and other techniques to mummify bodies.
The priests involved in mummification did not likely understand how the process worked.
Ancient civilizations developed various musical instruments for religious ceremonies, but likely did not understand the principles of sound waves.
Modern science explains some ancient technologies, like the antimicrobial properties of oils used in mummification.
The knowledge of how the wheel works as a tool for transportation came much later than its invention.
Some aspects of animal domestication remain unexplained, even after thousands of years of practice.

Most technological advancements today are based on applying scientific theories.
Progress in physics enabled the development of airplanes and nuclear weapons.
Advancements in biochemistry have driven drug development and personalized medicine.
Understanding fiber optics led to the boom in computer and internet usage.

The discovery of DNA structure was expected to significantly advance drug development and genetic engineering, but the results have been underwhelming.

The invention of the telescope and microscope in the 17th century significantly advanced physics, astronomy, and biology.
Scientific observations increasingly rely on technology, such as DNA sequencing.
The use of technology in observation raises concerns about the validity of scientific findings, particularly about the detailed structures of cells.

Technological advancements in observation techniques can influence scientific paradigms.
The shift from introspection to traditional scientific experiments in psychology is an example of technology influencing the field.

The development and use of the atomic bomb during World War II raises questions about the responsibilities of scientists.
Leo Szilard recognized the potential for an atomic bomb and persuaded Albert Einstein to inform President Roosevelt of the possibility.
The Manhattan Project (MP) was created to develop the nuclear bomb.
Szilard circulated a petition urging President Truman to reconsider the use of the bomb due to its devastating effects.
The decision to use the atomic bomb was ultimately a political one, not a scientific one.
Scientists agree that they should inform the public about the potential uses and abuses of their inventions.
Scientists and journalists are responsible for keeping the public scientifically informed and literate.
Disagreements between scientific communities can influence political decisions, as seen in the Montserrat volcanic eruption example.

Concerns about genetic engineering and its potential misuse have sparked debates around restrictions on scientific inquiry.
The control of much scientific research in genetic engineering by profit-driven corporations raises ethical concerns.
The potential for misuse of genetic engineering technology is highlighted, including the ethical implications of genetic modification.

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are a subject of ongoing debate among scientists.
Many GMOs, like soybean and corn, are increasingly produced in the US.
The use of genetically modified papaya to combat the Papaya ringspot virus raises questions about the ethics and potential consequences of genetic modification.
While genetic engineering is seen as a new advancement, selective breeding has been practiced for centuries to modify other organisms such as dogs and flowers.