Philosophy of Technology and Human Flourishing

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Questions and Answers

What does Heidegger suggest we should reflect on regarding technology?

Its value beyond utility (correct)

Its cost-effectiveness

Only its utility

Its historical development

According to Heidegger, what is a significant danger of technology?

It enhances human creativity

It may dominate human existence (correct)

It allows for efficient communication

It helps in scientific advancements

Which statement reflects Heidegger's view on the relationship between means and ends in technology?

The means are always more important than the ends.

Means can justify unethical ends.

The ends do not justify the means. (correct)

Ends are irrelevant to technological processes.

What is essential for understanding human flourishing according to the learning objectives?

Defining and explaining the concept of human flourishing Signup and view all the answers

What does the human condition entail when analyzed deeply?

Philosophical ramifications relevant to students Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect distinguishes humans from other animals, according to the content?

Articulate speech Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical outcome of reflecting on modern technology?

Understanding its dangers and promoting responsible use Signup and view all the answers

What must be included in the artwork project about technology?

An essay with a title and cited sources Signup and view all the answers

What does Aristotle define man as?

A rational animal Signup and view all the answers

What is the term used to describe Aristotle's understanding of the highest good?

Eudaimonia Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of Martin Seligman's Well-Being theory?

Wealth Signup and view all the answers

According to Aristotle, what is a significant aspect humans should pursue?

Rational choices Signup and view all the answers

What contributes to human flourishing, according to the content?

Personal growth within a community Signup and view all the answers

What does human flourishing encompass according to the definition provided?

A balance of various life experiences Signup and view all the answers

What does Seligman identify as an aspect of well-being that involves mastering skills?

Accomplishment Signup and view all the answers

Which element is essential for Aristotle's concept of a good life?

Happiness as the end goal Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the tasks that DESIRE is expected to perform?

Clear up the kitchen table Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by autonomy in the context of robotics?

The ability to function without direct human control Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical issue relates to advanced technology involving personal data?

Privacy Signup and view all the answers

What ethical dilemma might arise if robots become sentient?

Should they be granted rights? Signup and view all the answers

What potential risk does advanced Artificial Intelligence pose?

AI surpassing human intelligence and control Signup and view all the answers

Why might biotechnology raise ethical questions?

It involves manipulating natural organisms. Signup and view all the answers

What safety concern is associated with increased robot autonomy?

Accountability when safety is compromised Signup and view all the answers

Which technology is noted for its potential for mass destruction?

Nuclear Technology Signup and view all the answers

What is one positive impact of modern technology on living standards?

Improved material standard of living Signup and view all the answers

How has technology contributed to a reduction in untimely deaths?

Through advancements in medicine and safety Signup and view all the answers

What does the evolutionary view of technology suggest about society?

Society evolves toward betterment through advances Signup and view all the answers

What is a negative consequence of increased human dependency on technology?

Reduced patience and critical thinking Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a misuse of technology?

Utilizing technology to exploit others Signup and view all the answers

What contemporary social problem is exacerbated by modern technology?

Criminal behaviors and deviance Signup and view all the answers

What warning does Bill Joy provide regarding technological advancements?

It may lead humanity to an irreversible point of no return Signup and view all the answers

How does technology potentially influence social isolation?

By providing superficial connectivity Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of Eudaimonic Happiness as described?

Achievement and growth through self-actualization Signup and view all the answers

How does Aristotelianism view technology?

As a means to an end, focused on human demands Signup and view all the answers

What does technological pessimism suggest about technological progress?

It creates new problems and has damaging effects Signup and view all the answers

According to Jacques Ellul, what is one of the consequences of technological progress?

It creates unpredictable and potentially devastating effects Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary concern of technology from an Aristotelian perspective?

The value assigned to its products and effects Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects a view from technological pessimism?

Technological progress often creates more problems Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic feature of technological technique, according to pessimistic views?

It has become an inescapable framework for humans Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of technology does Aristotelianism primarily concern itself with?

The effectiveness and value of technological products Signup and view all the answers

What is described as the last invention humanity needs to make?

Artificial Intelligence Signup and view all the answers

What does a posthuman condition refer to?

Radical transformation of humanity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as an example of advanced technology?

Virtual Reality Headset Signup and view all the answers

What is one potential key feature of posthumanity?

Enhanced cognitive abilities Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario suggests that human civilization might face extinction?

Extinction Signup and view all the answers

What emerging technologies are referred to as 'Pandora's Boxes'?

Genetics, nanotechnology, and robotics Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential result of the technological advancements in the future of humanity?

Control over sensory input Signup and view all the answers

What factor is NOT considered to drive society to experience cycles of rise and fall?

Technological stagnation Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Introduction to Science, Technology and Society

Course title: STS 01
Instructor: Camille Rafal
Department: Physical Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, MMSU
University: Marcos State University (MMSU)

Unit II: STS and the Human Condition - A

Subtopic: The Human Person Flourishing in Terms of Science and Technology
Objective: Analyze the human condition in order to deeply reflect and express philosophical ramifications that are meaningful to the student as a part of society.

Understanding Happiness

Psychology defines happiness as a mental or emotional state of well-being, encompassing emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy.
Behaviorists describe happiness as a cocktail of emotions experienced when doing something good or positive.
Neurologists view happiness as the brain releasing hormones as a reward for behavior that promotes survival.

Happiness: A Destination or a Journey?

Hedonistic View: Happiness is the absence of pain; the purpose of life is maximizing happiness and minimizing misery.
Eudaimonia: A pursuit of becoming a better person by engaging in activities that enrich us spiritually and intellectually.
A balanced approach is needed, combining enjoyment and achievement, to avoid sluggishness or burnout.

Technology and Happiness

Technology facilitates advancements that cater to human needs and desires.
Enabling Hedonic Happiness: Technology provides leisure-oriented avenues, such as movies, games, and travel.
Enabling Eudaimonic Happiness: Technology supports self-actualization via education, skill-building platforms, and intellectual challenges.

Selected Views on Technology

Outline:
- Selected Views on Technology
- Martin Heidegger on Science and Technology
- The Society in the Face of Science and Technology

Aristotelianism

Technology is a means to an end, used to meet human demands efficiently.
The quality of technology is judged based on its product and effect on society.

Technological Pessimism

Technology is beneficial, but also doubtful, becoming an integral part of life.
Technology’s techniques are a framework that restricts human freedom.
According to Jacques Ellul, technological progress has a price, creates more problems and damaging effects and is unpredictable.

Technological Optimism

Technology is seen as the solution to all problems.
Technologists and engineers support technology's supreme authority.
Technology is beneficial in many ways, but can also be harmful.

Existentialism

Existentialists view technology as a double-edged sword, needing careful investigation into reality and existence.
They question how humans will use the abilities that technology gives them.
Heidegger supports this view that technology must be carefully considered to respect the importance of humanity.

Technology as a Way of Revealing

Heidegger's view:
- Technology as Poiesis: Bringing forth, a form of creation.
- Aletheia: Truth as unconcealedness.
Modern technology, however, challenges and exploits nature.
- Challenging Forth: Exploiting resources for efficiency.
- Enframing: Ordering nature for manipulation, turning nature into a standing reserve.

Dangers of Technology

Humans risk being consumed by technology.
Critical thinking is required to prevent nature and humanity from being viewed as mere instruments of technology.

Solutions According to Heidegger

Reflect on the value of technology, not just its utility.
Understand technology beyond its means to also encompass its impact.
Avoid letting technology dominate human existence, or dictate the actions of humanity.

Activity

Choose an artwork exemplifying the role and place of humans in the face of modern technology, while highlighting responsible use.
Document should include:
- Name of student
- Artwork
- Essay with title on the importance of responsible use of technology

Unit II: STS and the Human Condition - B

Subtopic: Human Flourishing
Objective: Define and explain human flourishing, analyze the human condition to deeply reflect and express philosophical ramifications that are meaningful to the student as a part of society, and conceptualize their own views on human flourishing.

Understanding Human Beings

Humans are members of the Homo sapiens species and distinguished from other animals by developed mental processes, articulate speech, and upright posture.
Aristotle viewed humans as rational animals with a destiny to live in both the spiritual and physical world, as a creature with a material body.
Rational choices are the basis for all human activities.

Human Flourishing

Human flourishing involves the effort to achieve full self-actualization.
This flourishing takes place within the context of a greater community where everyone has the right to personal growth.
This is a lifelong journey encompassing hopes, achievements, regrets, loses, illnesses, sufferings and coping mechanisms.

Aristotle’s View on Human Flourishing

Aristotle believed all human actions are aimed towards self-fulfillment.
Eudaimonia, or the highest good, encompasses happiness through flourishing and fulfillment.
Life is a balance of spiritual and physical realms that can be achieved through rational choices.

Seligman’s Well-Being Theory

Seligman’s theory focuses on psychological well-being, going beyond happiness.
Elements include:
- Positive Emotions (hope, joy, gratitude.)
- Engagement (being “one with the music,” flow.)
- Relationships (feeling supported, loved, valued.)
- Meaning (serving something greater than oneself.)
- Achievement (mastering skills, achieving goals.)

Science, Technology, and Flourishing

Advancements: Increased lifespan; reduced mortality improved education
Risks: Environmental degradation; ethical dilemmas; social isolation

Unit II: STS and the Human Condition - C

Subtopic: The Good Life

Learning Objectives

Examine shared concerns to develop innovative and creative solutions to contemporary problems using ethical guidelines.

Aristotle’s View of the Good Life

Happiness is the ultimate purpose of human life.
Reality and observation are essential for understanding the physical world.
True understanding comes through observing the external world, and acknowledging that everything changes and moves from possibility to actuality.

Philosophic Views of the Good Life - Materialism

The world is composed of matter.
Purpose arises from physical reality.
Immaterial entities are not needed to explain the concept of purpose.

Philosophic Views of the Good Life- Hedonism

The end of life is acquiring pleasure.
Lifestyle revolves around enjoyment and indulgence.
Minimal long-term consequence consideration.

Philosophic Views of the Good Life - Stoicism

Happiness is achieved by distancing oneself from emotions.
Apathy involves being free from negative emotions and passions, leading to fulfillment.
Focus on what you can control, not on external things.

Philosophic Views of the Good Life - Theism

Life's meaning is centered on God and spiritual existence.
Happiness is achieved through communion with God and faith.
Predominantly religious societies often tie life goals to supernatural ideas, like beliefs about heaven.

Philosophic Views of the Good Life - Humanism

Humans are free to create their own destiny, laws, and purposes.
Humans are the captains of their own ship and control their own destinies.
Focus on improving human life through innovation and technology.

Unit II: STS and the Human Condition - D

Subtopic: When Technology and Humanity Cross

Technology

The meaning of technology encompasses the concepts of "techne" (art) and "logos" (reason, discourse).
Concepts like machines and tools are inextricably linked to technology.

Television

Television used mainly as a platform for advertising and information dissemination.
In the Philippines, 92% of urban and 70% of rural homes have at least one television set.

Brief History of Television

Key figures like Paul Gottlieb Nipkow (1860-1940) and Alan Archibald Campbell-Swinton, along with Boris Rosing contributed to the development of television.
Nipkow developed an early system of television.
Campbell-Swinton and Rosing contributed to the development of television using cathode ray tubes.

Mobile Phones

Mobile phones serve primarily as communication tools, allowing for texting and calling.
Mobile phones transitioned from a luxury item to a daily necessity.

Computers and Laptops

Computers and laptops facilitate internet usage and communication.
Early pioneers, like Charles Babbage (1791-1791), who conceived of automatic digital computers were crucial to computing development.

Robotics and Humanity

Robotics aim to solve certain types of tasks and automate them.
Examples of expected tasks for robots are "Clear up the kitchen table"; "Fill the dishwasher"; and “Clear up this room.”
Robotics have their own ethical dilemmas and safety concerns (autonomy and safety).

Ethical Dilemmas in Robotics

Safety concerns: Robots are becoming increasingly autonomous, raising questions about accountability in case of malfunction or accidents.
Emotional component: Advanced technology might lead robots to have emotions, which raises challenging questions on the rights and protection of sentient robots.

Moral and Ethical Issues in Advanced Technology

Ethical dilemmas arise from the use of technology, especially regarding issues like privacy, biotechnology (genetic engineering, in vitro fertilization), and nuclear technology.
- Privacy issues are involved in the sharing and manipulation of private information.
- Issues in biotechnology include genetic engineering causing harm, and in vitro fertilization that may be opposed by some beliefs.
- Nuclear technology has the potential for widespread destruction and environmental harm.
Modern challenges include the risk of artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence, the ethical questions surrounding artificial intelligence and the potential for job displacement.

Balancing Technology and Ethics

Should we pursue technological advancement simply because we can?
Is there a risk of losing our humanity by relying too heavily on technology?

Unit II: STS and the Human Condition - E

Subtopic: Why Does the Future Not Need Us?

Human Experience in Technology

How has technology changed the experience of humans in healthcare, education and social interactions?
Emerging technologies (e.g. AI for medical diagnosis, virtual reality) and other technologies are transforming human experiences.
This is in conjunction with the possibilities of global change in the future that affect humans.

Human and Societies

The evolution of society, encompassing hunter-gatherer, agrarian, industrial, and information societies.
The debate on societal progress - some see improvements in healthcare, technology, and communications while others point to environmental degradation, social inequality, and over-reliance on technology.
Current and future societal challenges involved in maintaining human moral fabric amidst rapid technological advancements.

Technology and Humanity: A Positive Side

Technological changes have positively contributed to world population growth, higher life expectancy, and the development of different learning and educational platforms.
- Improvements in health care, agriculture and sanitation have led to improvements in population sizes.
- Medical advancements have led to higher life expectancy
- Online learning platforms have allowed increased global access to knowledge.
Modern citizens enjoy a higher quality of life compared with previous generations.
Technology also has an impact on how societies function in terms of governance, entertainment, relationships, and human interactions.

The Positive View of Technological Development

Improved living standards, reducing untimely deaths from accidents, epidemics, and violence.
Reduced instances of social issues like poverty, inequality, or oppression.
Evolution of society towards a better future through technological and social engineering, and welfare systems.
Technology brings about improved living conditions and leads to reducing human suffering, as well as enhances quality of life.

The Negative View of Technological Development

Problems and potentials of technology that may lead to negative consequences
Human dependency- Societal losses in critical thinking skills, impatience and real-life interactions due to heavy reliance on technology
Human greed and abuse- Technological advancements are often misused for selfish purposes, leading to ethical issues like harm or damage, and unforeseen issues.
Contemporary social problems - Criminality, drug use, and other social issues are exacerbated by modern technology.
- Social conflicts (labor disputes, political unrest.)
- Social isolation (reduced face-to-face interactions.)
Society drifting away from human nature- Technology pushing society away from human values.
- Bill Joy's concerns about robotics, genetic engineering, and nanotechnology irreversibly leading humanity to a point of no return threatening survival and the essence of being human.

The Future of Humanity

Possible Paths of the Future:
- Extinction (due to self-destructive technology)
- Recurrent Collapse (cycles of societal rise and fall)
- Plateau (stable state with slow growth)
- The Longer-Term View (likelihood of transcending the current human condition.)
Potential developments involving virtual reality, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and machine intelligence are transformative.
- Technological Singularity, potentially leading to machines surpassing human intelligence, marking the end of humanity's era.

How Technology is Transforming the Human Experience

Groundbreaking inventions once considered science fiction include hearing in color, hearing at arm's length, and implantable technology like eye cameras - Examples of present-day technologies like these are explored for their influence and impacts.
The New Pandora's Boxes
- Technologies like genetics, nanotechnology, and robotics represent powerful forces that could redefine what it means to be human.
The potential for "knowledge itself" as the most powerful tool, highlighting both the potential risks and benefits of highly advanced technologies like these.

Posthumanity Theory

Posthumanity as a radical transformation concerning biological and technological or economic developments.
- Key features include a growing population, increasing life expectancy, further enhancement of cognitive and sensory abilities.
A scarcity of issues related to psychological suffering.
This marks a radical change in humanity.

Message to Humanity

Technology is a double-edged sword (benefits and negative consequences).
It is the responsibility of the current generation to ensure that technological progress is used responsibly for the betterment of humanity while avoiding catastrophic outcomes.

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Description

This quiz explores key philosophical concepts related to technology, as discussed by Heidegger and Aristotle, including human flourishing and well-being. It encourages critical reflection on the implications of modern technology and the essential components of a fulfilling human life.