Introduction to STS and Historical Development PDF

GE2410 INTRODUCTION TO STS AND HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT Science and technology play crucial roles in shaping our world. They influence how we communicate, work, and solve problems. This module explores the key aspects of the interplay between science, technology, and society, illustrati...

GE2410 INTRODUCTION TO STS AND HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT Science and technology play crucial roles in shaping our world. They influence how we communicate, work, and solve problems. This module explores the key aspects of the interplay between science, technology, and society, illustrating how they impact our daily lives and future. Introduction to Science, Technology, and Society Science, technology, and society (STS) is an interdisciplinary field that studies how scientific and technological advances affect society and how social factors influence these developments. It looks at the interaction between science, technology, and human life. In simpler terms, STS focuses on the connection between new inventions and discoveries and the way they change or are shaped by society. Science and Technology as Interdependent Fields Science is the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation. Technology is the application of scientific knowledge to create tools and processes that improve life. Science and technology influence each other: discoveries drive new technologies, and technology enables further exploration. Instruments like microscopes and telescopes enhance our understanding of the universe and life. Materials science innovations create stronger, lighter, and more durable materials for various industries. The Role of Society in Scientific and Technological Advancements Society’s needs, values, and economy drive scientific research and technological innovation. Ethical concerns and public policy guide how research is done and how technologies are used. Government significantly funds research through grants, subsidies, and policies. Advocacy groups raise awareness on issues like data privacy, climate change, and genetics. Economic factors and market demand influence technological progress. Cultural views affect how people accept new technologies like Artificial Intelligence and genetic engineering. Access to technology and digital literacy impact how communities benefit from advancements. Collaboration between schools, industries, and governments encourages innovation. International cooperation is key in tackling global challenges like pandemics and climate change. 01 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 1 of 3  GE2410 Historical Development of Science and Technology Science and technology have evolved throughout history, shaping civilizations and contributing to societal progress. The development of tools, machinery, and scientific principles has led to significant transformations in human life. 1. ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS AND EARLY TECHNOLOGY Advancement Period and Location Impact The Wheel c. 4000 BCE, Mesopotamia Revolutionized transportation and trade, facilitating easier movement of goods and people Cuneiform and Cuneiform (c. 3100 BCE, Enabled record-keeping and knowledge Hieroglyphics Mesopotamia) and Hieroglyphics (c. transfer, paving the way for written 3100 BCE, Egypt) communication in ancient civilizations Roman Aqueducts 27 BCE–476 CE, Roman Empire Engineered to carry water to cities, baths, and fountains, improving public health and advancing urban infrastructure 2. MEDIEVAL PERIOD AND TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS (500–1500 CE) Advancement Period and Location Impact Al-Khwarizmi’s c. 8th–14th century CE, Islamic Helped establish the foundation for Algebra World modern algebra, greatly influencing the field of mathematics The Mechanical c. 13th century CE, Europe Installed in church towers, were among Clocks the earliest timekeeping devices Johannes c. 1440 CE, Germany Revolutionized communication and Gutenberg’s literacy by enabling mass production of Printing Press written material 3. SCIENTIFIC REVOLUTION (16TH–18TH CENTURY) Advancement Period and Thinker Impact Scientific Method 1561–1626 CE, Francis Bacon Introduced a systematic approach focused on observation, and experimentation to advance scientific discovery Telescope 1564–1642 CE, Galileo Galilei Transformed astronomy with groundbreaking discoveries such as the moons of Jupiter, challenging previous models of the universe Laws of Motion 1643–1727 CE, Isaac Newton Laid the foundation for classical physics, influencing the understanding of forces and motion 01 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 2 of 3  GE2410 4. THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION (19TH CENTURY) Advancement Period and Innovator Impact Steam Engine c. 1765 CE, James Watt Transformed industries by driving mechanized production and boosting productivity Incandescent Light 1879 CE, Thomas Edison Introduced a more reliable, longer- Bulb lasting alternative to candles and gas lamps, revolutionizing lighting Assembly Line c. 1901–1913 CE, Ransom Olds and Streamlined manufacturing processes, Henry Ford reducing costs and making products like cars more affordable 5. 20TH-CENTURY TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS Advancement Period and Innovator Impact Airplane (The 1903 CE, Wright Brothers Pioneered powered flight, transforming Wright Flyer) transportation and global connectivity Penicillin 1928 CE, Alexander Fleming Revolutionized medicine by providing the first effective antibiotic, saving millions from bacterial infections DNA Structure 1953 CE, James Watson and Francis Discovered the double-helix structure Crick of DNA, laying the foundation for advances in genetics and heredity 6. 21ST-CENTURY INNOVATIONS Advancement Period and Innovator Impact Smartphones 2000s–Present Combines many functions in one portable device that has reshaped communication, entertainment, and daily life Blockchain 2000s–Present Introduced decentralized systems for Technology secure digital transactions, enabling cryptocurrencies CRISP-Cas9 Gene- 2012, Jennifer Doudna and Enables precise genetic modifications Editing Emmanuelle Charpentier in medicine and agriculture References Luciaclemares, & Telefónica. (2024, November 19). 9 technological inventions that have changed the world. Telefónica. https://www.telefonica.com/en/communication-room/blog/9-technological-inventions-changed- world/. Mazur, B. (2023, December 21). 10 major technological advances in the last 10 years. Ignitec - Product Design Consultancy, Creative Technology and R&D Lab - Ignitec Product Design, Bristol. https://www.ignitec.com/insights/10-major-technological-advances-in-the-last-decade/. Pamplona, F. (2024, December 5). 10 most relevant advancements in science that you must know. Mind the Graph Blog. https://mindthegraph.com/blog/advancements-in-science/. Science and technology. (n.d.). Oxford Reference. https://www.oxfordreference.com/page/134. 01 Handout 1A *Property of STI Page 3 of 3