Definition and Origin of Science

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Questions and Answers

What does the term 'science' fundamentally refer to?

A philosophical approach to understanding ethics.

Technology that augments human ability.

A study of the natural world based on experiments and observation. (correct)

Knowledge obtained through speculation.

According to John Heilbron, what is essential for the development of scientific knowledge?

Theoretical speculation without experimentation.

Invention of techniques and apparatuses. (correct)

Public acceptance of scientific theories.

Implementation of ethical guidelines.

How does Mark Zuckerberg define a technological tool?

An application designed for efficient data processing.

Anything that enhances a human's existing abilities. (correct)

A device used to manipulate physical objects.

A method of communication established over time.

In what way is science distinguished from technology according to Lewis Wolpert?

Reliable scientific knowledge is value-free and lacks moral implications. Signup and view all the answers

What is a misconception about the responsibilities of scientists regarding technology?

Scientists cannot predict how their discoveries will be applied. Signup and view all the answers

What cultural belief about science does Lewis Wolpert address?

Science can be perceived as dangerous. Signup and view all the answers

What role do scientists have concerning the social implications of their work?

To publicly disclose any potential social implications. Signup and view all the answers

What defines scientific knowledge compared to other forms of knowledge?

It is derived from empirical evidence and experimentation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main concern expressed by Carl Sagan regarding society's relationship with science and technology?

Society is overly reliant on science and technology. Signup and view all the answers

What does Science and Technology Studies (STS) primarily aim to do?

Bridge gaps between unrelated academic disciplines. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following ethical dilemmas involves the use of technology to influence retail experiences?

Emotion-Sensing Facial Recognition Signup and view all the answers

What ethical concern is highlighted by the Ransomwar example?

The vulnerability of data security. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Textalyze tool aim to address?

Reducing texting-related accidents. Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical dilemma involves an algorithm affecting judicial outcomes?

Sentencing Software Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of Social Credit Systems reflect about modern society?

The growing significance of online reputation. Signup and view all the answers

What innovation does Google Clips represent in the context of technology?

A camera capturing personal moments throughout the day. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition and Origin of Science

Originates from Old French and Latin, meaning "knowledge."
Involves studying the natural world through facts from experiments and observations.
Includes distinct branches like biology, physics, and chemistry.

Perspectives on Science

John Heilbron defines science as discovering regularities in nature that can lead to principles and laws.
Emphasizes the role of invention in creating tools and methods to explain natural phenomena.
Lewis Wolpert asserts that while science is often perceived as dangerous, it is the most reliable way to understand the world.

Science vs. Technology

Science is value-free and does not carry moral implications; its discoveries can't predict technological applications.
Scientists must disclose the social implications and potential technological applications of their work.
Mark Zuckerberg describes technology as augmenting human capabilities, such as vision-enhancing devices like glasses.

Importance of Scientific Understanding

Carl Sagan warns of society's dependency on science and technology paired with a lack of understanding, posing risks for disaster.
Science and Technology Studies (STS) link disciplines like sociology and technology, providing tools for evaluating advancements in society.

Ethical Dilemmas in Science and Technology

The John J. Reilly Center highlights the need to consider ethical implications of technology through its annual list of dilemmas.
Examples of ethical dilemmas from the 2018 list include:
- Helix: A digital app store for genome reading.
- Robot Priest: First robot priest and monk.
- Emotion-Sensing Facial Recognition: Retail optimization by analyzing customer emotions.
- Ransomware: Data hostage situations for individuals and corporations.
- Textalyze: Tool to check phone usage before accidents for law enforcement.
- Social Credit Systems: China's system debuting in 2020 raises questions about online reputation.
- Google Clips: A camera designed to capture daily moments.
- Sentencing Software: Use of algorithms in legal sentencing.
- Rise of Robot Friendship: Creating chatbots from loved ones’ old text messages.

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Description

This quiz covers the definition and historical roots of science, tracing its origins from Old French and Latin terms. It explores the structured study of the natural world and various branches of science such as biology, physics, and chemistry.