STS - Lesson 1 & 2 PDF

LESSON 1: INTRODUCTION TO SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND SOCIETY The Science, Technology, and Society (STS) course explores the intricate relationship between scientific advancements, technological innovations, and the societal contexts that shape them. It examines how these advancements influenc...

LESSON 1: INTRODUCTION TO SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND SOCIETY The Science, Technology, and Society (STS) course explores the intricate relationship between scientific advancements, technological innovations, and the societal contexts that shape them. It examines how these advancements influence social structures, values, and daily lives, while also examining how societal factors like culture, politics, and economics impact the direction of scientific and technological development. Furthermore, STS critically analyzes the ethical and societal dilemmas arising from new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and genetic engineering, prompting discussions on responsible innovation and risk mitigation. In the Philippine context, the STS course often explores the historical development of science and technology within the country, highlighting key figures, inventions, and policies that have shaped its trajectory. It places a strong emphasis on addressing local challenges, such as poverty alleviation, disaster management, environmental protection, and the integration of indigenous knowledge systems with modern technologies. By focusing on these specific concerns, the course aims to equip Filipino students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary to contribute to the sustainable and equitable development of their nation. Ultimately, the STS course encourages informed decision-making about the role of science and technology in society. It fosters an understanding of the complex interplay between scientific advancements, technological innovations, and societal values, empowering students to engage in constructive dialogue about the ethical, social, and environmental implications of emerging technologies. INTENDED LEARNING OBJECTIVES: At the end of this lesson, the students should be able to: identify and explain the key concepts and principles of science, technology, and society. develop a sense of appreciation for the impact of science and technology on society. apply the knowledge and skills learned in the STS course to real-world problems and challenges. reflect on their own learning and development as they progress through the STS course. DIAGNOSTICS Instructions: Read each question carefully and choose the best answer. 1. Which of the following is NOT a major impact of science and technology on society? A. Economic growth B. Social change C. Environmental degradation D. Decreased life expectancy  2. How has the internet impacted social interactions? A. Increased face-to-face interactions B. Decreased communication distances C. Reduced social isolation D. All of the above 3. What is one ethical concern related to the use of artificial intelligence? A. Job displacement B. Privacy violations C. Autonomous weapons D. All of the above 4. How can science and technology help address climate change? A. Developing renewable energy sources B. Improving energy efficiency C. Reducing pollution D. All of the above 5. What is the role of government in promoting responsible science and technology development? A. Funding research B. Setting regulations C. Educating the public D. All of the above The term "science" originates from the Latin "scientia," meaning "knowledge" or "knowing," derived from the verb "scire" – "to know." "Technology" stems from Greek words: "tekhne" (art, craft, skill) and "logia" (study of). Initially, it referred to the study of arts and crafts. "Society" derives from the Latin "societas," meaning "companionship" or "friendship," linked to the adjective "socialis" – "pertaining to companions or allies." Science is a systematic endeavor that constructs and organizes knowledge through testable explanations and predictions about the universe. Technology involves applying scientific knowledge for practical purposes, particularly within industry. Society refers to a group of people sharing a common culture, territory, and institutions. Science and technology have witnessed remarkable advancements. Present breakthroughs include advancements in artificial intelligence, such as machine learning and deep learning, revolutionizing various sectors like healthcare, finance, and transportation. Gene editing technologies like CRISPR hold immense potential for treating genetic diseases and developing new therapies. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind power are gaining traction, offering sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. Space exploration continues to push boundaries, with missions to Mars and the development of reusable rockets. These advancements have profound implications for society, impacting our daily lives, the global economy, and the environment. Science encompasses a wide array of disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and earth science. Technology encompasses a diverse range of fields, such as engineering, medicine, and computer science. Society encompasses a broad spectrum of social, economic, and political institutions. Science, Technology, and Society (STS) is an interdisciplinary field that examines the creation, development, and consequences of science and technology within their historical, cultural, and social contexts. Science and Technology Studies (STS) is an academic field that investigates how science and technology shape and are shaped by social, political, and economic forces. In general, STS applies the methods drawn from history, philosophy, sociology, and scientific methods. History: STS utilizes historical analysis to understand how scientific and technological developments have evolved over time, examining their social, cultural, and political contexts. Philosophy: Philosophical inquiry helps to critically examine the underlying assumptions, values, and ethical implications of scientific and technological advancements. Sociology: Sociological perspectives provide insights into how social structures, power relations, and cultural norms influence the development and application of science and technology. Scientific Methods: While not solely focused on empirical data, STS also draws upon scientific methods to investigate specific aspects of science and technology, such as the social construction of knowledge, the diffusion of innovations, and the impact of technology on society. By integrating these diverse perspectives, STS provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between science, technology, and society. Here are 10 of some of the most significant scientific and technological advancements in the past 5 years. 1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Advancements: Deep Learning breakthroughs: AI models have shown remarkable progress in areas like image recognition, natural language processing, and game playing, with applications ranging from self-driving cars to medical diagnostics. 2. Space Exploration Milestones: Successful Mars missions: Several successful missions to Mars have expanded our understanding of the red planet, including the landing of the Perseverance rover and the collection of Martian rock samples. 3. CRISPR Gene Editing:  Continued advancements: CRISPR technology continues to revolutionize genetic engineering, with potential applications in treating genetic diseases, developing new therapies, and improving crop yields. 4. Renewable Energy Growth: Solar and wind power expansion: The cost of solar and wind power has plummeted, leading to significant growth in renewable energy installations worldwide and a shift towards a more sustainable energy future. 5. Quantum Computing Progress: Increased power and stability: Quantum computers are moving beyond theoretical concepts, with researchers making strides in increasing their power and stability, promising breakthroughs in fields like drug discovery and materials science. 6. mRNA Vaccine Technology: COVID-19 vaccine development: The rapid development and deployment of mRNA vaccines to combat the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the power of this groundbreaking technology and its potential to revolutionize vaccine development for other infectious diseases. 7. Space Tourism: Commercial spaceflights: The rise of commercial spaceflight companies has made space travel more accessible, with the first wave of space tourists experiencing sub-orbital flights and paving the way for future space tourism ventures. 8. Advanced Materials: New materials with enhanced properties: Researchers are developing new materials with extraordinary properties, such as graphene, which is stronger than steel and conducts electricity better than copper, with potential applications in electronics, energy storage, and medicine. 9. Personalized Medicine: Tailored treatments: Advances in genomics and personalized medicine are enabling doctors to tailor treatments to individual patients based on their unique genetic makeup, leading to more effective and targeted therapies. 10. Brain-Computer Interfaces: Improving communication and control: Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) are allowing people with disabilities to control prosthetic limbs, communicate, and even regain some lost motor function, offering hope for individuals with neurological conditions. These examples highlight the rapid pace of innovation and the transformative potential of these developments to shape the future of humanity. EXCERCISES Task 1: Review the ten emerging ethical and policy issue dilemmas compiled by the John J. Reilly Center for Science, Technology, and Values of the University of Notre Dame for 2018 and answer the question that follows. The Reilly Center Releases its 2018 Top 10 List of Ethical Dilemmas in Science and Technology The John J. Reilly Center for Science, Technology, and Values at the University of Notre Dame has released its sixth annual list of emerging ethical dilemmas and policy issues in science and technology. The annual list is designed to get people thinking about the ethics of potentially controversial technology, but the 2018 list shows that many of these issues are already here. See the list at reillytop10.com. This year’s list was created by a team of Notre Dame undergraduates participating in a course titled "Man and Machine: Humanity, Technology, and the Future" through the Reilly Center's popular Science, Technology, and Values Program. This year's issues are: 1. Helix - A digital app store designed to help you read your genome. 2. The Robot Priest - BlessU-2 and Pepper are the first robot priest and monk, respectively. 3. Emotion-Sensing Facial Recognition - Optimizing retail experiences by assessing your reactions. 4. Ransomware - Holding data hostage until you pay up, whether you're an individual or a large corporation. 5. The Textalyzer - A new tool in the battle against texting and driving that tells cops if you were on your phone before an accident. 6. Social Credit Systems - China will debut theirs in 2020, but do we already live in a world where online reputation is king? 7. Google Clips - This little camera will watch you all day and capture your most picturesque moments. 8. Sentencing Software - There are already Americans being sentenced with the help of a mysterious algorithm. 9. The Rise of Robot Friendship - Can we create a chat bot out of our loved ones' old texts and social media posts? 10. The Citizen App - Live crime reporting may lead to vigilante justice. The Reilly Center explores conceptual, ethical and policy issues where science and technology intersect with society from different disciplinary perspectives. Its goal is to promote the advancement of science and technology for the common good and demonstrate the integral role of the humanities in science and technology. (For more information about the Top 10 list, contact Dr. Jessica Baron at [email protected].) Thoughts to ponder: Why is it important to question the moral and ethical issues surrounding innovations in science and technology? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ LESSON 2: HISTORICAL ANTECEDENTS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Historical antecedents of Science, Technology, and Society (STS) examine the evolution of scientific thought and technological advancements throughout human history, tracing their development across civilizations from ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome to the Middle Ages, the Scientific Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and the modern era. This exploration delves into how societies in different periods developed and utilized scientific knowledge and technological innovations, such as mathematics, astronomy, medicine, agriculture, and engineering, and how these advancements, in turn, shaped and were shaped by societal values, beliefs, and needs. By studying these historical antecedents, we gain valuable insights into the current state of science and technology and the potential impacts of future developments on society. INTENDED LEARNING OBJECTIVES: At the end of this lesson, the students should be able to: identify and describe key historical figures, events, and inventions that have shaped the development of science and technology. analyze the social, cultural, and economic contexts that influenced the development of specific scientific and technological advancements throughout history. explain how historical antecedents of STS inform current debates and challenges related to science and technology in contemporary society. DIAGNOSTICS Instructions: Read each question carefully and choose the best answer. 1. Which ancient civilization is credited with the development of the concept of zero? a) Mesopotamia b) Egypt c) Greece d) India 2. Who is considered the "father of medicine" and is associated with the Hippocratic Oath? a) Aristotle b) Hippocrates c) Galen d) Avicenna 3. The invention of the printing press is attributed to: a) Johannes Gutenberg b) Leonardo da Vinci c) Isaac Newton d) Galileo Galilei 4. Which of the following is NOT a key characteristic of the Scientific Revolution? a) Emphasis on observation and experimentation b) Rejection of religious dogma c) Rise of universities d) Decline of scientific inquiry 5. The Industrial Revolution began in:  a) China b) India c) Great Britain d) The United States 6. Which of the following inventions revolutionized transportation during the Industrial Revolution? a) The steam engine b) The printing press c) The compass d) The abacus 7. What was a major social consequence of the Industrial Revolution? a) Increased rural population b) Decreased urbanization c) Rise of the middle class d) Decline of industrial production 8. Who developed the theory of relativity? a) Albert Einstein b) Marie Curie c) Isaac Newton d) Charles Darwin 9. The invention of the internet can be traced back to: a) The development of the World Wide Web b) The creation of the first personal computer c) The Cold War d) The space race 10. Which of the following best describes the relationship between science, technology, and society? a) They are independent and unrelated. b) They influence each other in complex ways. c) Science drives technology, but society has little impact. d) Technology drives science, but society has little impact. Antecedents in STS refer to past events, situations, or phenomena that have shaped the development of science and technology. Studying these antecedents provides valuable insights into the present by revealing how past advancements have influenced current realities. By examining historical trends, we can anticipate future developments, make informed decisions about current technologies, appreciate human ingenuity, and identify recurring patterns in the relationship between science, technology, and society. Ancient Civilizations (c. 3500 BCE - 500 CE) ❖ Wheel: This invention, likely appearing independently in Mesopotamia and possibly in Europe, revolutionized transportation. It enabled the creation of carts and chariots, facilitating trade, warfare, and the movement of goods and people over greater distances. ❖ Irrigation Systems: Civilizations like the Egyptians and Mesopotamians developed sophisticated irrigation systems, such as canals and aqueducts, to manage water resources for agriculture. These systems allowed for the cultivation of larger areas of land, increased food production, and supported the growth of complex societies. ❖ Writing Systems: The development of writing systems, such as cuneiform in Mesopotamia and hieroglyphics in Egypt, marked a significant leap in human communication. Writing allowed for the recording of history, laws, literature, and scientific observations, enabling the accumulation and transmission of knowledge across generations. ❖ Mathematics: Ancient civilizations made significant contributions to mathematics. The Mesopotamians developed a sophisticated number system based on 60 (which we still use today in time and angles), while the Egyptians excelled in geometry, particularly in relation to land surveying and pyramid construction.  ❖ Astronomy: Ancient civilizations meticulously observed the stars and planets. The Egyptians developed a sophisticated calendar based on the movements of the sun and stars, while the Mesopotamians and Babylonians made detailed astronomical observations, laying the groundwork for later astronomical discoveries. Medieval Period (c. 500 CE - 1500 CE) ❖ Printing Press: Invented by Johannes Gutenberg around 1440, the printing press revolutionized communication and the dissemination of knowledge. By enabling the mass production of books, it significantly increased literacy rates, facilitated the spread of new ideas, and played a crucial role in the Renaissance and the Scientific Revolution. ❖ Compass: The invention of the compass, likely originating in China, revolutionized navigation. It allowed sailors to determine direction, even in cloudy or foggy conditions, enabling them to explore new lands and expand trade routes.  ❖ Gunpowder: The development of gunpowder, also originating in China, had a profound impact on warfare and military technology. It led to the invention of firearms, cannons, and other weapons, transforming the nature of combat and shifting the balance of power between nations. Scientific Revolution (c. 1550 - 1750 CE) ❖ Heliocentric Model: Nicolaus Copernicus's heliocentric model, which placed the Sun at the center of the solar system, challenged the long-held geocentric model of Ptolemy. This groundbreaking concept revolutionized our understanding of the universe and laid the foundation for modern astronomy. ❖ Laws of Motion and Gravity: Sir Isaac Newton's formulation of the laws of motion and the law of universal gravitation provided a unified framework for understanding the motion of objects on Earth and in the heavens. These laws had a profound impact on fields such as physics, engineering, and astronomy. ❖ Microscope and Telescope: The invention of the microscope and telescope significantly expanded human understanding of the natural world. The microscope allowed for the observation of microscopic organisms and cells, while the telescope enabled astronomers  to observe celestial objects with greater detail, leading to new discoveries about the universe. ❖ Scientific Method: The development of the scientific method, with its emphasis on observation, experimentation, and evidence-based reasoning, revolutionized scientific inquiry. It provided a systematic framework for conducting research and acquiring knowledge, leading to significant advancements in various fields of science. Industrial Revolution (c. 1760 - 1840 CE) ❖ Steam Engine: The invention of the steam engine, primarily by James Watt, marked a turning point in the Industrial Revolution. It provided a new source of power, replacing human and animal labor, and revolutionized transportation with the development of steam locomotives and steamships. ❖ Power Loom: The invention of the power loom mechanized the process of weaving, significantly increasing the speed and efficiency of textile production. This led to the mass  production of textiles and played a key role in the growth of the textile industry during the Industrial Revolution. ❖ Cotton Gin: Invented by Eli Whitney, the cotton gin dramatically increased the efficiency of cotton processing, making cotton cultivation more profitable and fueling the growth of the slave trade in the American South. Modern Era (19th & 20th Centuries) ❖ Electricity: The discovery and harnessing of electricity revolutionized many aspects of modern life. It led to the development of numerous inventions, including the light bulb, telephone, radio, and electric motors, transforming industries, communication, and daily life. ❖ Internal Combustion Engine: The development of the internal combustion engine powered the rise of automobiles, airplanes, and other forms of transportation. This revolutionized travel, trade, and the movement of people and goods. ❖ Penicillin and Antibiotics: The discovery of penicillin and the development of antibiotics revolutionized medicine, significantly reducing mortality rates from infectious diseases. This breakthrough had a profound impact on public health and increased life expectancy. ❖ Computers: From early calculating machines to the powerful computers of today, the development of computers has transformed numerous aspects of society, from scientific research and business to communication and entertainment. ❖ Internet: The development of the internet has revolutionized communication and information sharing, connecting people and organizations worldwide. It has transformed how we access information, conduct business, and interact with each other. ❖ Atomic Energy: The discovery of nuclear fission led to the development of nuclear power, providing a new source of energy, and unfortunately, to the development of nuclear weapons. ❖ Space Exploration: The exploration of space, including the launch of Sputnik and the landing of humans on the moon, pushed the boundaries of human knowledge and technological capability. It has led to significant advancements in fields such as materials science, robotics, and medicine.  ❖ Biotechnology: The development of biotechnology, including genetic engineering and gene editing techniques, has the potential to revolutionize medicine, agriculture, and other fields. It offers the promise of treating genetic diseases, developing new drugs, and improving crop yields. Inventions by Filipino Scientists Filipino scientists have made significant contributions to the fields of science and technology, both within the Philippines and on a global scale. Their inventions and discoveries have had a profound impact on various aspects of human life, from medicine and agriculture to communication and space exploration. Some notable examples include the discovery of the antibiotic erythromycin by Abelardo Aguilar, the development of the two-way television telephone system by Gregorio Y. Zara, and the contributions of Eduardo San Juan to the design of the Lunar Roving Vehicle used in the Apollo missions. These achievements demonstrate the ingenuity and scientific prowess of Filipino minds and have inspired generations of Filipino scientists to pursue excellence in their respective fields. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that the full potential of Filipino scientists has not always been fully realized. Challenges such as limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and brain drain have hindered scientific progress within the country. Nevertheless, ongoing efforts to strengthen scientific research and development in the Philippines, including investments in education, research institutions, and innovation hubs, are crucial for fostering a more robust scientific community and unlocking the full potential of Filipino scientists for the benefit of the nation and the world. Here are 15 among many notable Filipino inventions and inventors: 1. Erythromycin (Antibiotic) Inventor: Abelardo Aguilar Significance: Discovered the antibiotic erythromycin in 1949.  2. Jeepney Inventor: Filipinos after World War II Significance: Iconic public transportation in the Philippines, adapted from US military jeeps. 3. Videophone Inventor: Gregorio Y. Zara Significance: Invented a two-way television telephone system in 1955. 4. Quartz-crystal Clock Inventor: Gregorio Y. Zara Significance: Developed an improved quartz-crystal clock in 1930. 5. Artificial Coral Reefs Inventor: Angel Alcala Significance: Pioneered the development of artificial coral reefs to rehabilitate damaged marine ecosystems. 6. Moon Buggy (Lunar Roving Vehicle) Inventor: Eduardo San Juan Significance: Contributed significantly to the design of the Lunar Roving Vehicle used in the Apollo missions. 7. Flourescent Lamp Inventor: Agapito Flores (though claims are disputed) Significance: Allegedly invented the fluorescent lamp before its commercialization. 8. Karaoke Machine Inventor: Roberto del Rosario Significance: Invented the Sing-Along System, the forerunner of the modern karaoke machine. 9. Methane Digester Inventor: Maria Orosa Significance: Developed a simple and affordable methane digester to produce biogas from organic waste. 10. Banana Ketchup Inventor: Maria Orosa Significance: Created a ketchup alternative made from ripe bananas during World War II. 11. Yoyo Inventor: Filipinos (allegedly) Significance: Though its origins are debated, the yoyo is believed to have been used as a weapon in the Philippines before becoming a popular toy. 12. Salunguit Inventor: Filipinos Significance: Traditional fishing corrals made from bamboo and other natural materials. 13. Bamboo Ice Cream Inventor: Unknown, but a popular Filipino street food Significance: A unique and refreshing treat made using bamboo as a container. 14. Patupat Inventor: Unknown, but a traditional Filipino dish Significance: Glutinous rice cooked in woven leaves, showcasing ingenuity in food preparation. 15. E-jeepney Inventor: Various Filipino engineers and companies Significance: Modernized versions of the traditional jeepney, powered by electricity to reduce emissions. Disclaimer: This list is not exhaustive and there are many other important Filipino inventions and inventors.