STS: Science, Technology & Society Introduction

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Questions and Answers

What did Anaximander reject as the arche of the universe?

Water (correct)

Air

Earth

Fire

What was Anaximander's view on the formation of the sun and stars?

They were created by the same processes of condensation and rarefaction. (correct)

They were solid objects.

They were formed from the burning of earth.

They were purely gaseous without structure.

According to Anaximander, what causes thunder and lightning?

Wind breaking out of clouds (correct)

Earth movements during storms

The cooling of air currents

The collision of heavenly bodies

What did Anaximander propose about the structure of the Earth?

It is a broad flat disk floating on air. Signup and view all the answers

What did Anaximander claim about the nature of air?

It is a mixture of infinite materials. Signup and view all the answers

What defines technology as a process?

The intelligent organization and manipulation of materials for useful purposes. Signup and view all the answers

How does global warming primarily affect the Earth's environment?

It leads to a gradual heating of Earth's surface, oceans, and atmosphere. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary purposes of science and technology?

To provide solutions for material needs and improve living standards. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of technology as a product?

The physical devices and materials created through human fabrication. Signup and view all the answers

What activity is associated with water pollution?

Cosmetics manufacturing processes that use harmful substances. Signup and view all the answers

What impact did the industrial revolution have on technology?

It marked the start of inventing new tools and better ways of doing things. Signup and view all the answers

What does process innovation focus on?

Improving existing processes to enhance productivity. Signup and view all the answers

What role do students play in understanding science and technology's impact on societal issues?

They engage in formulating critical understanding and responsible actions. Signup and view all the answers

What social structure was dominant from the 9th to 15th century?

Feudal system Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the architecture commonly associated with churches during this period?

They predominantly used basilican layouts. Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of nobles within the feudal system?

To give protection and land in return for service. Signup and view all the answers

What was a characteristic of the clerestory in church architecture?

It included windows that allowed light into the building. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of schooling during the feudal period, what was one significant action taken concerning the children of nobles?

They were obligated to attend school. Signup and view all the answers

What term describes the motion that is not caused by any external force?

Natural Motion Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher emphasized the importance of the mean in defining virtue?

Aristotle Signup and view all the answers

What significant invention was used for astronomical measurements in ancient Greece?

Astrolabe Signup and view all the answers

What was Socrates accused of in Athens?

Corrupting the youth Signup and view all the answers

Who founded the first university in Western civilization?

Plato Signup and view all the answers

What describes the function of a catapult in ancient warfare?

To launch projectiles Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher is known for the Theory of Forms?

Plato Signup and view all the answers

What was one effect of the technological advances in ancient Greece?

Improved navigation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of cartography in ancient Greece?

Making maps Signup and view all the answers

How did Charlemagne strengthen his rule?

Through cultural and religious reform Signup and view all the answers

What device was used to determine the position of celestial bodies?

Astrolabe Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about violent motion is correct?

It is caused by an external force. Signup and view all the answers

The Antikythera Mechanism was primarily used for what purpose?

Predicting calendar-related events Signup and view all the answers

What was primarily exchanged for military service by the nobility?

Labor and agricultural products Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant outcome of the Carolingian Renaissance?

Recovery of classical Latin texts Signup and view all the answers

Which technological advancement helped warriors maintain balance while fighting?

Stirrups Signup and view all the answers

What was the purpose of the 3-field system?

To enhance agricultural yield Signup and view all the answers

What major conflict spanned from 1337 to 1453?

The Hundred Years War Signup and view all the answers

What architectural feature is characteristic of Gothic churches?

Flying buttresses Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of castles in the High Middle Ages?

To defend against invasions Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant effect of the Crusades on European society?

Spread of scientific knowledge Signup and view all the answers

Which invention was crucial for measuring time on ships?

Hourglass Signup and view all the answers

The increase in which class was a result of the revival of commerce during the High Middle Ages?

Merchants and craftsmen Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Black Death in the Late Middle Ages?

It caused labor shortages Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main reasons for initiating the First Crusade?

To reclaim the Holy Land Signup and view all the answers

Which type of art and architecture was notably prominent during the High Middle Ages?

Gothic architecture Signup and view all the answers

What was a notable characteristic of Romanesque churches?

Large rounded stone roofs Signup and view all the answers

How did the Crusades affect the feudal system?

It led to a decline in feudalism Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Introduction: Science, Technology & Society

STS examines the complex interaction between science, technology, and social, cultural, political, and economic contexts
It highlights the importance of analyzing real-world issues through a scientific lens
Key issues include global warming, water pollution, animal testing, deforestation practices, and the COVID-19 pandemic
STS helps individuals develop a critical understanding of the relationships between science, technology, and society
This knowledge empowers students to make informed decisions and take responsible action to address the impact of these advancements.

Meaning of Technology

Technology is the application of scientific knowledge in a practical way.
It involves the intelligent organization and manipulation of materials for useful purposes.
Technology can be seen as a process and a product.
As a process, it focuses on inventing or improving tools, materials, and methods of doing things, with the goal of satisfying human needs and wants.
As a product, it refers to tangible objects created through human ingenuity and fabrication.
These products often represent advancements in technology, offering a means to enhance our way of living.

Purpose of Science & Technology

Science and technology play a crucial role in understanding the world around us
Early uses can be traced back to the prediction of solar eclipses in 585 BC.
Key principles are embedded, including:
- Explaining existence
- Understanding change and motion
- Investigating the mysteries of life

Anaximander

Ancient Greek philosopher who was a student of Thales.
He rejected Thales' assertion that water was the fundamental element and proposed that the universe originated from Apeiron, an infinite and undefined substance.
He believed this substance contained opposing forces that led to the formation of stars and planets.
He theorized that the Earth was flat and floated on a cushion of air.

Socrates

Ancient Greek philosopher who is known for his method of questioning and his emphasis on the pursuit of truth.
He was accused of corrupting the youth of Athens and impiety and was sentenced to death.
Refused to escape his sentence, choosing to abide by the laws of Athens.
Advocated for critical thinking and the importance of virtue.
His legacy reflects a staunch commitment to truth, intellectual integrity, and the pursuit of wisdom through dialogue and self-reflection.

Plato

Ancient Greek philosopher who was a student of Socrates and a founder of the Academy in Athens, the first Western university.
Famous for his Theory of Forms, which posits that the physical world is not the ultimate reality and that true knowledge lies in the realm of eternal and unchanging Forms.
He emphasized the importance of science, mathematics, and philosophy in gaining true understanding.
He envisioned an ideal society ruled by philosopher kings who would guide society towards justice and virtue.

Aristotle

Ancient Greek philosopher who was a student of Plato and founded the Lyceum.
Contributed significantly to the development of logic, physics, biology, and ethics.
Known for his emphasis on observation and reason, and his belief that happiness is dependent on virtuous living.
He believed that the world is governed by natural laws and that it is through reason and observation that we can gain knowledge about these laws.
His writings explored a vast array of subjects, including the nature of the universe, the causes of motion, the workings of the human mind, and the principles of a just society.

Ancient Greeks’ Technology

Ancient Greeks were responsible for several important technological advancements.
Key inventions include:
- Astrolabe: an instrument used for making astronomical measurements, such as determining the altitudes of celestial bodies, providing information about the locations of the sun, planets, and stars, and helping to navigate.
- Overhead Crane: designed to lift heavy objects off the ground.
- Catapult: a military weapon designed to launch projectiles, used for both offensive and defensive purposes.
- Water Mill: a device used to grind grain or operate machinery using the power of water.
- Analog Computer: the Antikythera Mechanism, was an ancient Greek calculating device that could predict astronomical events, such as eclipses.
- Cartography: the art of creating maps, playing a role in navigation and depicting specific areas of Earth.
- Shipbuilding: Ancient Greek shipbuilders were skilled craftsmen, and many influential innovations in shipbuilding were made during this time.
- Weapons: Ancient Greeks designed ingenious weapons to use in warfare.

Impact of Technology in the Greek’s Society

The technological advancements of the ancient Greeks significantly influenced societies then and continue to have a positive impact on our lives today.
These inventions made it easier for people to perform everyday tasks, facilitating economic growth and expansion.
Ancient Greek technology helped to:
- Improve agricultural techniques.
- Make construction more efficient.
- Advance naval exploration and global travel.
- The development of weapons influenced strategy and warfare.
- Advances in astronomy, physics, and mathematics propelled the development of modern scientific practices.

Science, Technology & Society: Middle Ages

The Middle Ages (5th to 15th centuries) followed the fall of the Western Roman Empire.
There were significant social and political changes:
- Population decline
- A decline in trade
- Increased immigration
The Early Middle Ages (5th to 10th centuries) marked a period of transition.
- Although labeled as the Dark Ages, which is an inaccurate portrayal, the Middle Ages witnessed a decline in science and culture compared to the Classical period.
- The period was characterized by feudalism, the widespread use of the plow in farming, and a devastating pandemic known as the Black Death.
Feudalism was the dominant social structure from the 9th to 15th centuries, where people worked and fought in exchange for protection and land use from nobles.
The Age of Faith arose during the Middle Ages and was marked by a strong religious influence, particularly the rise of Christianity and Islam in Western Europe.
The Catholic Church served as the primary centralized institution, maintaining its influence through monastic communities.
- The Papacy rose to become a powerful political entity.
- During this time, scholars primarily focused on Christian faith and often lacked access to ancient Greek scientific literature.

Charlemagne

Also referred to as Charles the Great, was a figure who brought significant reforms in political, cultural, and religious spheres during his reign.
He promoted education by establishing an elite school for his children in his palace and obligating noble children to attend school.
He played a vital role in shaping the feudal system, which became the dominant societal structure.

Alcuin of York

A monk, poet, and educator, Alcuin of York met Charlemagne in Italy and was appointed as the head of the Palatine School in Aachen.
Alcuin's work played a significant role in promoting scholarship and education in Europe.

Architecture

Church architecture during the Middle Ages was primarily Basilican, characterized by rectangular buildings with a central nave flanked by aisles.
The Apse, semi-circular, served as a vaulted ceiling area.
The Clerestory, a wall with windows, often adorned churches.
The Clerestory provided additional light for the interior of the church.

Early Middle Ages

Nobility held lands from the king in exchange for military services.
Vassals were the tenants of the nobles.
Peasants obligated to live on their Lord’s land and give him homage, labor, and products in exchange for protecting them.
Charlemagne encouraged the revival of classical Roman culture known as the “Carolingian Renaissance”.
Charlemagne gathered the finest scholars from other places and later it was called “scholasticism.”
Carolingian Renaissance centred around the recovery of classical Latin texts and learning.
The Carolingian Renaissance was carried out by and for the clergy in a strictly Christian setting
The Carolingian Renaissance included literature, writing, arts, architecture, jurisprudence, liturgy reforms, and scriptural studies.

Technology in the Early Middle Ages

A number of inventions were made in Europe and reached the continent from China.
Stirrups helped warriors to maintain their balance while fighting.
The heavy plough, commonly known as an “ard/scratch-plough,” was drawn by working animals like oxen and horses.
The heavy plough efficiently loosened heavy clay soil in Northern Europe, leading to increased agricultural yields.
The heavy plough was invented in the 6th century.
The three-field system involved dividing land into three fields with one field sown in spring, one in autumn, and one left fallow to restore fertility.

High Middle Ages

The high Middle Ages saw the revival of trade which increased the standard of living, led to a vastly increased population, and increased agricultural production.
Trade rejuvenated European cities and created a new class of merchants and craftsmen.

Types of Architecture

Castles were fortified homes for kings and nobility, built to defend against enemies and launch attacks.
Castles were often built at the top of hills.
Romanesque churches were built in the 11th and 12th centuries, and featured large rounded stone roofs.
Gothic churches were built in the 13th century, and featured flying buttresses, vaulted roofs soaring skyward, and stained glass windows.

Technology in the High Middle Ages

Hourglasses were used to measure the speed of ships and as timers in early factories.
Eyeglasses, or spectacles held by hand, were invented.

The Crusades

Holy wars against the “infidels” or unbelievers.
A series of religious wars between Christians and Muslims.
Crusades aimed to stop the expansion of Muslim states, reclaim the Holy Land in the Middle East, recapture territories previously Christian, and cleanse Christians of their sins.
The first crusade took place from August 15, 1096, to August 15, 1099, and resulted in a Crusader victory.
The final crusade, resulted in a Muslim victory and the loss of Crusader territory near the East.
The Crusades contributed to increased royal power, the spread of scientific and philosophical knowledge, improved trade, and the decline of the feudal system.

Late Middle Ages

European prosperity and growth came to a halt in the 14th century.
The black death resulted in bloodletting, boil-lancing, superstitious practices, and people avoiding the sick, causing labor and agricultural shortages.
The black death ended feudalism.
The hundred years' war lasted from 1337 to 1453 (116 years), and was a battle between the kings and kingdoms of France and England.
The hundred years' war caused devastation of farmlands, increased military spending, increased taxes, and population decline.

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Description

This quiz explores the intricate interplay between science, technology, and societal contexts. It delves into key global issues such as global warming and water pollution, emphasizing the importance of a scientific perspective in understanding these challenges and fostering responsible action. Test your knowledge on the definition of technology and its critical role in contemporary society.