Introduction to Science, Technology, and Society

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Questions and Answers

What does the term Science, Technology and Society (STS) primarily study?

The historical development of scientific techniques

The relationship between scientific innovations and social factors (correct)

The regulatory policies affecting scientific research

The methods of knowledge acquisition in education

Which of the following describes science as a product?

A collection of artistic expressions

A subjective viewpoint on natural phenomena

A market-driven enterprise

A systematic body of knowledge based on observations (correct)

How is technology defined in relation to culture?

As a purely technical mechanism without cultural influence

As a form of artistic expression only

As an intrinsic part of a cultural system that reflects and shapes values (correct)

As a separate entity from social practices

What does the field of Science, Technology and Society focus on primarily?

The interdisciplinary relationship between society and technology Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about technology is accurate?

Technology can be seen as a total societal enterprise Signup and view all the answers

What indicates that science is considered a cognitive authority?

It is based on verifiable concepts and empirical evidence Signup and view all the answers

What signifies the significance of science and technology in modern society?

Their potential to enhance social and cultural understanding Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best captures the essence of scientific research?

Systematic and empirical investigation for knowledge generation Signup and view all the answers

What does the course SCITECH primarily explore?

Interactions between science, technology, and their social contexts. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key aims of the SCITECH course?

To instill reflective knowledge for ethical decision-making. Signup and view all the answers

What mandatory topics are included in the SCITECH course?

Climate change and environmental awareness. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of society is highlighted in the SCITECH course?

Scientific knowledge and technological development as a social process. Signup and view all the answers

What significant impact does the course suggest science and technology have on society?

They play a crucial role in human development. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a disadvantage discussed in the SCITECH course?

Potential ethical dilemmas in technological use. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by the phrase 'the race between human skill as means and human folly as an end' in the context of the course?

The struggle to utilize skills wisely amid potential misuse of technology. Signup and view all the answers

What method of learning does the SCITECH course utilize?

Flexible Learning Modalities. Signup and view all the answers

What are some examples of eco-friendly technologies mentioned?

Solar energy, wind power, geothermal energy Signup and view all the answers

Which invention is stated to have created threats to human survival?

Nuclear weapons Signup and view all the answers

What is a main ethical dilemma mentioned regarding advancements in technology?

Exploitation of scientific knowledge leading to harm Signup and view all the answers

What disparity is highlighted in the context of human well-being?

Economic strength dividing advanced and less developed countries Signup and view all the answers

How has the natural world been negatively impacted by human advancement?

Degradation of forests and pollution of rivers Signup and view all the answers

What role does military power play in national security based on the content?

It dictates the outcomes of recent wars. Signup and view all the answers

What type of waste poses a threat to human survival and the environment?

Toxic wastes from manufacturing Signup and view all the answers

What negative outcome is associated with technological progress?

Loss of natural resources Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

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.

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Description

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.