STS concepts

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Questions and Answers

How does STS challenge the notion of technological determinism?

By demonstrating that technological advancements are solely driven by economic factors.
By promoting the idea that technology has no impact on culture.
By insisting that technology is completely neutral and has no societal influence.
By asserting that society's values, politics, and culture play a role in shaping technology, not just vice versa. (correct)

What is the core argument of the Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) perspective?

Technology is shaped by social, cultural, and political factors. (correct)
Technology follows a linear path of innovation.
Technology is solely shaped by the vision of inventors.
Technology is developed independently of social factors.

Which of the following best describes how STS scholars approach risk assessment regarding new technologies?

Examining how risks are assessed, communicated, and regulated, considering both technical and social factors. (correct)
Prioritizing economic benefits over potential social or environmental harms.
Assuming that technological advancements always lead to a net reduction in overall societal risk.
Relying solely on quantitative data to determine acceptable risk levels.

In what way does STS view scientific consensus?

As potentially influenced by social and political factors, in addition to objective evidence; it's not always purely objective. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of STS in policy-making related to science and technology?

To offer insights into the social, ethical, and political dimensions of science and technology to inform responsible policy development. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a central tenet of Actor-Network Theory (ANT)?

Both human and non-human actors form interconnected networks that influence the development and diffusion of technology. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary concern of STS scholars regarding the development and use of artificial intelligence (AI)?

The ethical and social implications of AI, including bias, job displacement, and privacy concerns. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does the precautionary principle relate to STS studies of technology and innovation?

It suggests that measures to prevent potential environmental harm should not be delayed due to a lack of complete scientific certainty. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the key concern of STS regarding the 'digital divide'?

The unequal distribution of access to technology and its associated benefits. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did Thomas Kuhn's work influence the development of STS?

By challenging the view of scientific progress as objective, highlighting the social and conceptual factors influencing scientific change. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Science, Technology, and Society (STS)

Interdisciplinary field studying the effects of society, politics, and culture on scientific research and technological innovation, and vice versa.

Social Construction of Technology (SCOT)

Argues technology is shaped by social, cultural, and political factors rather than being a neutral tool.

Technological Determinism

The idea that technology shapes society, not the other way around, often critiqued by STS scholars.

Actor-Network Theory (ANT)

Approach treating both human and non-human elements as equal actors in a network shaping technology.