Science and Technology Overview

Study Notes

Science and Technology

Science is derived from the Latin word "scientia," meaning knowledge.
The scientific method is a systematic approach to acquiring knowledge, encompassing steps like identifying problems, gathering information, forming hypotheses, conducting tests, drawing conclusions, and reporting findings.
Technology originates from the Greek terms "techne" (skill, art, craftsmanship) and "logos" (discourse, reason).
Science focuses on explaining phenomena and seeking knowledge, while technology applies that knowledge for practical purposes.

History of Science and Technology

In ancient times, religious authorities answered scientific questions.
Mathematics emerged in Egypt, while Babylonians applied math to astronomy.
Ancient Greece witnessed the development of the first systematic science.
Key Greek thinkers include:
- Thales of Miletus, credited as the father of science, predicted eclipses and droughts.
- Anaximander, proposed the evolution of humans from simpler life forms.
- Pythagoras, applied mathematics to understand nature.
- Empedocles, suggested the existence of four elements: fire, air, water, and earth.
- Democritus, proposed the concept of atoms as uncuttable particles.
- Eratosthenes, measured Earth's size and created the first world map.
In ancient chemistry, the five elements were believed to be earth, air, fire, water, and aether.
Hippocrates and Galen in ancient medicine utilized experiments and records for healing practices.
The progress of science and technology slowed in the West during the Middle Ages following the fall of the Roman Empire (known as the Dark Ages).
The Renaissance and Scientific Revolution marked a revival of scientific thought:
- St. Thomas Aquinas promoted "Natural Theology," understanding God through nature.
- Francis Bacon introduced the scientific method.
- Nicolaus Copernicus proposed the heliocentric theory, placing the Sun at the center of the universe.
- Galileo Galilei, improved the telescope and confirmed Copernicus' ideas.
The Age of Enlightenment, a period of flourishing scientific thought, saw notable contributions from:
- Isaac Newton, wrote "Mathematical Principles of Natural Philosophy," invented calculus, and studied alchemy.
- Carl Linnaeus, developed biological taxonomy.
- Charles Darwin, introduced the theory of evolution through natural selection in "On the Origin of Species."
- Sigmund Freud, developed psychoanalysis, including concepts like id, ego, and superego.
The Information Revolution marked a shift in human interaction with the world through writing, printing, and technological advancements.

Civilizations and Their Contributions

Mesoamerica

Mayans:
- Predicted eclipses.
- Used complex calendars.
- Developed weaving techniques using glittery paints made from mica.
Incas:
- Built stone-paved roads and irrigation systems.
- Invented the first suspension bridge.
- Utilized quipu (knotted ropes) for record-keeping.
Aztecs:
- Introduced mandatory education.
- Produced chocolate.

Asia

India:
- Developed Ayurveda and surgical techniques documented in the "Susruta Samhita."
- Aryabhata made contributions to trigonometry and algebra.
- Brahmagupta explained the concept of zero and suggested gravity as an attractive force.
- Madhava was a pioneer in mathematical analysis.
Indonesia:
- Known for constructing "Candi" (religious structures).
Japan:
- Practiced Kampo (traditional medicine).
China:
- Invented the iron plow, wheelbarrow, and propeller.
- Built the first seismological detector.

Middle East and Africa

Ibn al-Haytham:
- Considered the father of optics.
Al-Khwarizmi:
- Known as the father of algorithms.
- Coined the term "algebra."
Jabir ibn Hayyan:
- Considered the father of chemistry.
Ibn Sina (Avicenna):
- Pioneered experimental medicine and conducted clinical trials.
- Wrote "The Canon of Medicine" and "The Book of Healing."
Lebombo Bone:
- The oldest mathematical artifact, used as a calendar or for calculations.
Egypt:
- Advanced alchemy and pharmacology.
- Applied diagnosis and prognosis in medicine.