Science, Technology, and Society Overview

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following contributions are attributed to the Maya civilization?

Development of hydraulic systems (correct)

Creation of quipu for record-keeping

Construction of stone roads

Introduction of mandatory education

What was a significant agricultural innovation developed by the Aztecs?

Suspension bridges

Quipu

Aqueduct systems

Floating gardens (correct)

Which of the following inventions is associated with ancient China?

Rubber production

Gunpowder (correct)

Astronomical calendars

Earthquake-resistant buildings

What was one of the primary focuses of early human societies as per immediate concerns?

Transportation and Navigation Signup and view all the answers

Which civilization is noted for its earthquake-resistant buildings?

Inca Signup and view all the answers

Which era did the Maya civilization thrive in?

250–900 CE Signup and view all the answers

What method did Muslim scientists emphasize in their scientific approach?

Experimental methods Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of societal development does technology primarily influence?

Social behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of science?

Discovering natural laws Signup and view all the answers

How is technology defined in relation to science?

Applied knowledge to solve problems Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between science and technology?

Technology utilizes scientific knowledge for practical applications. Signup and view all the answers

What is the general aim of technology?

To solve real-world problems Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant impact of science and technology on society?

They enhance living conditions and education. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Latin term 'societas' refer to in the context of society?

The association or companionship among people Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly contrasts science and technology?

Science aims to expand knowledge, while technology applies that knowledge practically. Signup and view all the answers

How does the study of STS (Science, Technology, and Society) benefit society?

By analyzing the interactions and impacts of science and technology on society Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Science, Technology, and Society (STS)

STS examines the dual impact of science and technology on society, encompassing both beneficial and adverse effects.
Interdisciplinary field integrating history, philosophy, anthropology, and sociology.

Understanding Science

Originates from "scientia" in Latin, meaning knowledge.
Involves systematic observation and experimentation to comprehend the natural world.
Knowledge obtained leads to the formulation of theories, principles, and laws based on facts.

Understanding Technology

Derived from Greek terms "techne" (skills) and “logos" (reason).
Refers to practical application of knowledge through techniques and methods to address issues.
Represents the transformative use of scientific discoveries into useful tools and processes.

Relationship Between Science and Technology

Science seeks knowledge for its own sake, while technology applies that knowledge for practical purposes.
Scientific discoveries often catalyze technological innovations, which in turn facilitate further scientific research.

Comparison of Science and Technology

Science aims to identify natural laws and expand knowledge through organized experimentation.
Technology focuses on implementing scientific knowledge to create solutions for practical challenges.

Impact on Society

Science and technology significantly influence economic growth and enhance lifestyles, communication, and connectivity.
Innovations can lead to improved living conditions, especially in developing regions (e.g., advancements in healthcare).
Society shapes the direction of scientific inquiry through cultural and ethical considerations.

Society Overview

Derives from "societas," meaning association or companionship; encompasses groups of individuals engaged in continuous interaction.
Includes shared geography, political structures, and cultural practices that influence technological progress and research.

Early Human Concerns

Factors that motivated early humans include food security (agriculture), communication, transportation, physical safety (warfare), and spirituality.

Mesoamerican Civilizations

Maya (250–900 CE):
- Excelled in astronomy, created complex calendars, and hydraulic systems.
- Developed rubber production, hieroglyphic writing, and the concept of zero.
Inca (1200–1533 CE):
- Known for sophisticated engineering, including earthquake-resistant buildings and an extensive road system.
- Utilized quipu for record-keeping; created the first suspension bridges.
Aztec (1325–1521 CE):
- Introduced innovations like mandatory education, chocolate production, and anti-spasmodic medicine.
- Developed chinampas (floating gardens) for agriculture.

Scientific Contributions in Asia

India:
- Renowned for its advancements in metallurgy, especially in iron and steel, as well as medicine and mathematics.
China:
- Significant inventions include the compass, paper, gunpowder, and printing technology.
- Notable in bridge designs, astronomy, and traditional medicine.

Scientific Developments in the Middle East

Emphasis on experimental methods by Muslim scientists, advancing the field of science during historical periods.

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Description

This quiz explores the relationship between science and technology and their impact on society. It covers fundamental concepts of science and technology, their definitions, and interdisciplinary connections. Gain a deeper understanding of how scientific knowledge is transformed into technological applications.