Introduction to Science, Technology, and Society

Questions and Answers

What is the main focus of the field of Science, Technology, and Society (STS)?

The relationship between society, culture, and natural sciences

How technology affects the laws and principles of science

The ways science and technology shape modern culture and vice versa (correct)

How to apply scientific knowledge in technology

Which word is derived from the Latin word 'scientia'?

Science (correct)

Knowledge

Society

Technology

What does the term 'technology' refer to?

Knowledge of scientific experiments

The application of scientific knowledge to solve problems (correct)

The systematic study of nature

The ethics of scientific inquiry

According to the notes, scientists are responsible for what aspect of scientific inquiry?

Conducting scientific inquiry and its interpretation Signup and view all the answers

What is the Greek root word for 'technology'?

Techne Signup and view all the answers

How does society change in response to science and technology, according to STS?

It adapts its values and institutions. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to study the interaction between science and technology?

To understand how they are enacted in society Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a focus of the STS field?

The methods of conducting scientific experiments Signup and view all the answers

In the context of STS, how are technological applications of science influenced?

By a variety of sectors, including politics and business Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Overview of Science, Technology, and Society (STS)

STS is an interdisciplinary field that investigates the interplay between modern science, technology, culture, values, and institutions.
The field emphasizes how science and technology develop, integrate into society, and alter both social processes and societal responses.

Key Concepts

Science: Derived from the Latin "scientia," meaning "knowledge." It involves systematic methods of acquiring knowledge about the universe through observation and experimentation.
Technology: Originates from the Greek "techne," meaning "art, skill, or cunning." It applies scientific knowledge to create tools, services, and solutions for tangible problems.
Society: The term "society" comes from the Latin "societas," signifying a collective of individuals.

Relationship between Science and Technology

Science does not dictate technology application; rather, its role is to provide knowledge which can be applied in various ways.
Scientists focus on rigorous scientific inquiry and interpretation, but are not responsible for how their discoveries are utilized.
The application of scientific knowledge in technology is subject to external influences, including political, governance, and commercial factors.
Understanding the interaction between science and technology within society highlights the complexity of their relationship and the importance of their study.

Description

This quiz explores the interdisciplinary field of Science, Technology, and Society (STS). It focuses on how modern science and technology influence culture, values, and institutions, while also examining societal responses to these changes. Test your understanding of the main ideas and details surrounding STS.