Science, Technology & Society Overview

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Questions and Answers

What purpose did the Ziggurat of Ur primarily serve?

A residential complex for the rulers

A storage facility for agricultural goods

A sacred place for priests to conduct worship (correct)

A marketplace for trading goods

What significant function did dikes serve in Sumerian agriculture?

They were used for building construction

They controlled flooding and provided irrigation (correct)

They facilitated fishing activities

They served as boundaries between farms

Which of the following innovations did Sumerians invent for agricultural efficiency?

The fertilizer spreader

The irrigation pump

The harvester machine

The plow (correct)

What was the primary use of the first wheels invented by the Sumerians?

Facilitating agricultural processes Signup and view all the answers

What material did the Sumerians use to construct their roads?

Sun-baked bricks and bitumen Signup and view all the answers

How did Sumerians primarily transport goods before the invention of the wheel?

Through waterways using sailboats Signup and view all the answers

What was a key advantage of using the wheel and axle in agriculture?

It allowed for mass production of goods more efficiently Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'sailboats' refer to in the context of Sumerian advancements?

Boats for carrying goods over long distances Signup and view all the answers

What was the original name for science, reflecting its ancient Greek roots?

Natural Philosophy Signup and view all the answers

What were the first scientists known as?

Natural Philosophers Signup and view all the answers

What is the Greek origin of the word 'technology'?

Techne and Logos Signup and view all the answers

Which civilization is credited with developing the first writing system?

Sumerian Civilization Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Edwin Smith Papyrus?

Surgical techniques for triage surgeons Signup and view all the answers

How did ancient people impact the development of science and technology?

Out of necessity to improve their lives Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of language according to the content?

It allows for the description and classification of objects Signup and view all the answers

Which ancient Egyptian is recognized as the first known dentist by name?

Hesyre Signup and view all the answers

What does the evidence of mummies suggest about dental health in ancient Egypt?

Dental problems were severe and widespread among the population. Signup and view all the answers

What type of symbols were used in the Sumerian writing system?

Cuneiform and Ideographs Signup and view all the answers

Why is it considered unclear why dental practices in ancient Egypt did not evolve as rapidly as other medical fields?

The precedence of other medical practices overshadowing dental care. Signup and view all the answers

What motivated the Sumerians in their scientific and technological advancements?

A desire for greater accomplishments and cooperation Signup and view all the answers

What significant dental procedure is noted as being one of the earliest in history?

A dental surgery dating back to 14,000 years ago in Italy Signup and view all the answers

What material was primarily used to create the handheld mirrors in ancient Egypt?

Rock salt Signup and view all the answers

What health issue related to dental care was common in ancient Egypt?

Abscesses from extractions Signup and view all the answers

Which ingredient was NOT part of the early toothpaste recipes mentioned?

Honey Signup and view all the answers

What common misconception exists about ancient Egyptians and their dental health?

They had exceptionally white teeth. Signup and view all the answers

What was a major contribution of the Egyptian civilization to record-keeping?

Papyrus Signup and view all the answers

According to historical practices, what were common contributions of the Egyptians to personal care?

Handheld mirrors and toothpaste Signup and view all the answers

What was a common misconception regarding the effectiveness of ancient Egyptian toothpaste?

It worked well for maintaining fresh breath. Signup and view all the answers

For what reason did the ancient Egyptians develop toothpaste and toothbrushes?

Due to dietary grit in their food Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main benefits of the irrigation techniques developed by the Egyptians?

They made it easier to maintain even saturation of crops. Signup and view all the answers

Which material was combined with minerals to create the ink used by the Egyptians?

Soot Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of the hieroglyphics in ancient Egypt?

To record history, culture, and laws. Signup and view all the answers

Which group introduced new irrigation techniques during the Second Intermediate Period?

The Hyksos Signup and view all the answers

Why was Kohl used by the ancient Egyptians?

To prevent and cure eye diseases. Signup and view all the answers

What essential natural event aided Egyptian agriculture by depositing rich soil?

The annual flood of the Nile Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant improvement made to the ox-drawn plow by the Egyptians?

It was designed in two gauges: heavy and light. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary characteristic of the ink developed by the Egyptians?

It was tamper-proof and resilient. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Science and Technology Overview

Science is a systematic knowledge of the natural world, developed through the scientific method; originated from ancient Greek philosophy.
Early scientists were termed “Philosophers of nature,” seeking truths about natural materials through observation and classification.
Technology is derived from Greek roots “tekhne” (art/craft) and “logia” (subject/interest); it refers to practical applications of scientific knowledge to improve human life.

Historical Antecedents

Ancient civilizations laid the groundwork for modern science and technology through necessity-driven discoveries and inventions.

Contributions of the Sumerian Civilization

Located in southern Mesopotamia, Sumerians were known for collaboration and innovation.
Developed the first writing system (Cuneiform) using triangular symbols carved on clay.
Created the Great Ziggurat of Ur, a significant architectural structure as a temple for their chief god.
Advanced irrigation techniques like dikes enhanced year-round farming and food production.
Sailboats facilitated transportation and trade across waterways before the wheel's invention.
The wheel, initially used for farming, improved efficiency in agriculture and led to the development of the plow.

Egyptian Innovations

The Egyptians created the handheld mirror, important for personal hygiene and self-image.
Developed early forms of toothpaste and toothbrushes due to dental issues caused by diet.
Papyrus, made from Nile plants, revolutionized record-keeping and communication.
Innovations included the ox-drawn plow, allowing efficient farming and improved irrigation, later adopted by Greek and Roman cultures.
Egyptian ink was formulated to withstand natural elements, essential for documenting history, culture, and laws.
Hieroglyphics served as a divine writing system, revealing historical and cultural narratives to modern times.

Medical Advancements in Ancient Egypt

The Edwin Smith Papyrus details surgical techniques, demonstrating knowledge of anatomy.
Although dental practices were less advanced than medicine, they showed a greater understanding of oral health than other cultures at the time.
Dentistry was recognized as a significant field, with Hesyre noted as the first known named dentist in history, serving during Djoser’s reign.

Summary of Cultural Impact

Egyptian cosmetics served both health and aesthetic purposes, with ingredients like Kohl used for eye health.
Overall, ancient civilizations contributed greatly to advancements in science, technology, and medicine, shaping the foundation for future developments.

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Description

This quiz explores the relationship between science, technology, and society. It covers the historical context of science as a philosophy and how early philosophers contributed to our understanding of the natural world. Test your knowledge on these fundamental concepts.