Introduction to Science, Technology, and Society

Module 1: Introduction to Science, Technology, and Society

• This course explores the interactions between science, technology, and social, cultural, political, and economic contexts.
• It examines how science and technology shape, and are shaped by, these contexts.
• The course emphasizes the importance of ethical decision-making in the face of scientific and technological advancements.
• It includes topics on climate change and environmental awareness.

Introduction

• The module introduces the concept of science and technology within the broader social context.
• It highlights the importance of understanding the processes of society and culture that played a crucial role in shaping scientific and technological progress.
• It emphasizes the interconnectedness of science and technology with society.
• It aims to equip learners with the necessary concepts and terminologies to navigate through the course.

Learning Objectives

• Define science and technology.
• Describe significant developments in science and technology and their societal impact.
• Analyze the disadvantages of science and technology.

Science, Technology, and Society (STS)

• STS is the study of how social, political, and cultural values influence scientific research and technological innovation, and vice versa.
• It examines the relationships between scientific and technological advancements and society.
• STS is interconnected with the history and philosophy of science but has a broader focus on the social aspects of science and technology.
• STS explores the interaction between science and technology and social, cultural, political, and economic factors.

Science as a Process

• Science is concerned with uncovering relationships between phenomena through theories and systematic inquiries.
• Scientific methodology involves observation, hypothesis, experimentation, and analysis for explanation.
• This approach aims to describe and explain the development of knowledge, from the abstract to the specific.
• Science is a process of discovery, focused on understanding the natural world via systematic investigations.

Science as a Product

• Science is a structured body of knowledge based on facts and verifiable observations.
• It employs logical and empirical methods to systematically observe and study phenomena.
• Science plays a crucial role as a source of authoritative knowledge about the world.
• Science comprises various concepts, people, skills, organizations, tools, resources, and methods.

Technology as a Product

• Technology is a system of know-how, skills, techniques, and processes, often intertwined with cultural values, commerce, and art.
• It reflects and shapes the cultural values of its time.
• Technological advancements are often rooted in scientific knowledge and concepts, using materials and methods to create and improve tools, products and/or systems.
• Technology is a product of human ingenuity and a complex combination of knowledge, materials, methods, and craftsmanship.

Notable Human Successes

• The invention of the wheel significantly impacted transportation and trade.
• The compass offered crucial navigation for exploration and trade.
• The printing press revolutionized the dissemination of knowledge.
• The internal combustion engine facilitated transportation and industrialization.
• The telephone transformed communication fundamentally.

The Internet

• The Internet is a global network of interconnected computer networks.
• It's a groundbreaking technology crucial for communication, information access, and globalization.

Eco-Friendly Technologies

• Technologies that utilize resources from the environment, minimizing negative impacts on the global environment.
• Examples like solar energy, geothermal energy, and wind power.

Threats and Ethical Dilemmas

• The development of powerful weapons like nuclear bombs has posed a threat to human survival.
• Scientific advancements can introduce ethical dilemmas, including issues of warfare and resource management.
• Technologies can harm the environment and lead to issues such as pollution, resource depletion, and global warming.

Disparities and Conflicts

• The unequal distribution of scientific and technological benefits and advancements.
• Military power can impact national security.
• Innovating technologies might have negative effects on specific sectors or demographics such as pollution, unemployment, and cultural shifts.

This quiz tests your understanding of the interactions between science, technology, and societal contexts. It covers key concepts, ethical decision-making, and how climate change impacts these domains. Prepare to explore the interconnectedness of these fields and their relevance in today's world.