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This document provides an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of Science, Technology, and Society (STS). It explores the interplay between science, technology, and society, examining historical perspectives and key concepts like the social construction of technology.
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LESSON 1 INTRODUCTION TO STS STS WHAT IS STS - Exploring the Interplay of Science, - Interactions between science and Technology, and Society technology and social cultural - t...
LESSON 1 INTRODUCTION TO STS STS WHAT IS STS - Exploring the Interplay of Science, - Interactions between science and Technology, and Society technology and social cultural - the interdisciplinary study of political and economic contexts the relationships between which shape and are shaped by science, technology, and them; specific examples throughout society. human history of scientific, and - explores how societal values, technological developments." beliefs, and institutions - STS is ubiquitous. shape scientific research and technological development. Science (S) - aims to understand the - includes natural, formal, and social impact of science and sciences deeply embedded in our technology on society and daily lives. vice versa. - informs our understanding of Earth's natural processes and phenomena. Historical Perspective - also unravels the complexities of - STS emerged in the late 1960s as a human behaviour, society, and response to growing concerns about culture, contributing to the way we the social implications of scientific of live and interact with our and technological progress. environment. - Gained prominence in the 1970s with the focus on the social impacts Technology (T) of technology. - systematic application of knowledge - The 1980s and 1990s saw the and tools to create and utilize development of STS as a distinct systems, influencing and being academic discipline. influenced by societal, economic, - Draws from sociology, history, and cultural dynamics. philosophy, anthropology, and other - is an integral aspect of our daily disciplines. existence, permeating and - The field gained prominence with the enhancing various facets of modern rise of issues like nuclear power, life, from communication and work to environmentalism, and bioethics. entertainment and personal convenience. Key concepts behind STS - Social Construction of Technology Society (S) (SCOT) theory emphasizes that - an ever-present backdrop to our technology is not neutral but shaped daily lives, shaping our behaviours, by social factors. interactions, and cultural norms as - exemplified by the bicycle, we navigate relationships, work, and where its design, usage, and the broader systems that govern our societal impact evolve communities. through the interplay of technological features and associated with technological social practices. advancements. - Technological Determinism theory argues STS calls for the inclusion of that technology drives societal change diverse perspectives and values in - suggests that the development and decision-making processes. adoption of new technologies inherently shape and influence the Science Communication and Public structure and dynamics of a society. Engagement STS emphasizes the importance of Relationship between Science and effective science communication to Society bridge the gap between scientists - STS investigates the influence of and the public. societal values, beliefs, and norms STS examines the role of media, on scientific research education, and public discourse in - STS examines how scientific shaping public understanding of knowledge is communicated, science and technology. understood, and accepted by It also promotes public different social groups. engagement in scientific - STS examines how scientific decision-making to ensure knowledge is communicated, democratic and informed societal understood, and accepted by choices different social groups. Career Opportunities STS offers diverse career paths, Technology and Social Change including academia, research, policy STS explores how technological analysis, science communication, innovations impact social structures, and consulting. relationships, and practices. Graduates with STS background can STS investigates the social, cultural, work in government agencies, and ethical implications of emerging non-profit organizations, and private technologies. sector companies. STS also examines the role of STS expertise is valuable in technology in shaping power addressing complex societal issues dynamics and inequalities in society. related to science, technology, and innovation. Ethical Considerations in STS Science policy analyst ○ Evaluate and develop STS promotes ethical reflection on policies related to scientific the development and use of science and technological and technology. advancements. It encourages critical analysis of Science journalist the potential risks and benefits ○ Communicate complex socio-economic and environmental scientific concepts to a challenges by promoting inclusive broader audience. and sustainable development across Ethicist the world. ○ Address ethical dilemmas arising from scientific and Global citizenship technological progress. a concept that encourages individuals to recognize their interconnectedness with the broader world, fostering a sense of responsibility, empathy, and active participation in addressing global challenges and promoting sustainable development. Global Perspectives in STS STS recognizes the global interconnectedness of science, technology, and society. It investigates how different cultures The SEAL of Thomasian Education and societies perceive and engage of the University of Santo Tomas with science and technology. serves as a holistic framework It highlights the need for inclusive fostering student development and culturally sensitive approaches through values formation, in addressing global challenges. community engagement, and leadership initiatives. Also emphasizes to the students the importance of the Thomasian core values of Competence, Commitment and Compassion in the light of student leadership and selfless service. Laudato Si is Pope Francis's encyclical that calls for urgent environmental action, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all life and urging a collective responsibility to care for our common home and address the ecological crisis. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS ACTION CAMPAIGN represents a global agenda aiming to address and solve pressing LESSON 2 SCIENTIFIC REVOLUTION Human Origins Toolmaking began before any members - The Human Revolution refers to the of the Homo genus walked the Earth! remarkable and sudden emergence of language consciousness and culture in our species, Homo sapiens sapiens. - Historians call the early period of human history as the Stone Age. - First humans emerged from Africa and lived simultaneously with other hominid species. - Large complex brains provided the capacity to make and use tools. - Developments are not just products of one time thought process. - Brought about by gradual improvements to earlier works from different time periods. Paleolithic Age (2.5 MYA - S000 BC) - The earliest part of this period was the Paleolithic Age or the Old Stone Technology Age. - Makes difficult and complicated - The Palaeolithic Age began about tasks easier 2.5 million years ago and lasted until - Method or activity to imply new ways around 8000 B.C. to improve the everyday - Paleolithic people hunted buffalo, environment bison, wild goats, reindeer, and other - Implementation of scientific animals, depending on where they knowledge for the overall lived. development of human life - Paleolithic people survived by hunting and gathering. Key Historical Transitions - Gathered wild nuts, berries, fruits, wild grains, and green plants. - Palaeolithic Period - Fished along rivers and coastal - Neolithic PeriodRise of Ancient areas. Civilizations - Current research indicates that - Industrial Revolution two-thirds of the energy was derived - The Anthropocene from animal sources. - Paleo Diet (caveman diet) - heavy on protein and low in carbs bows and arrows made killing large animals easier. - Spears and fish hooks increased the number of fish caught. Designation of tasks within groups. - Sharp-edged tools to cut up plants - Men - hunting and dig roots. - Women - gathering - They used scraping tools to clean animal hides, which they used for - Women stayed close to the camp, clothing and shelter. often close to a body of water. - By the end of the Paleolithic Age, - They looked after the children and people were making smaller and searched nearby woods and sharper tools. meadows for berries, nuts, and - They crafted needles from animal grains. bones to make nets and baskets and - Everyone worked to find food. to sew hides together for clothing. - Some scientists believe that equity existed between Paleolithic humans learned to make their own shelters. Paleolithic men and women. - People constructed tents and huts of - This means that a man and a animal skins, brush, and wood. woman worked together to find food - In very cold climates, some people for themselves and their children made shelters from ice and snow. thus the emergence of the first - Many lived in caves. families. The first use of fire by humans in the First tools made by humans Paleolithic - Technology tools and methods to - Warmth perform tasks were first used by - Cooked food Paleolithic people. - Meat that was smoked by fire could - Before this time, sticks, stones, and be Stored tree branches served as tools. - Later, people made devices from a Generating Fire hard stone called flint (hard, - Certain stone to pyrite, gave off sedimentary crystalline form of the sparks when struck against another mineral quartz) rock - Paleolithic people learned that by hitting flint with another hard stone, Communication and Arts the flint would flake into pieces. - Development of spoken language. - These pieces had very sharp edges - The spoken language of early that could be used for cutting. people was constantly growing and - Flint technology was a maior changing. breakthrough for early people. - Transfer of knowledge - Over time, Paleolithic people made - Cave paintings found all around the better, more complex tools. Spears, world. - Crushed yellow, black, and red rocks Neolithic Technology and combined them with animal fat - An array of Neolithic artifacts, to make their paints. including bracelets, axe heads, - Used twigs and their fingertips to chisels, and polishing tools. apply these paints to the rock walls. - Neolithic stone artifacts are by definition polished. - Skilled manufacturers of a range of Neolithic Period (10,200 BC and ending other types of stone tools and between 4500 and 2000 BC) ornaments, including projectile points, beads, and statues. First Agricultural Revolution - The polished stone axe allowed - The wide-scale transition from a forest clearance in a large scale. lifestyle of hunting and gathering to one of agriculture and settlement. RISE OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATION - The Neolithic was a period in the development of human technology Sumerians (4500 BCE to 1900 BCE) Sumerian Civilization Neolithic Society (Mesopotamia) - During the Neolithic age, people - present day Iraq lived in small tribes composed of - one of four kingdoms in families. Mesopotamia (including Assyrian, - The domestication of large animals Akkadian, and Babylonian resulted in a dramatic increase in kingdoms) social inequality. - first known settlers of the region - Headed by a charismatic leader of - Mesopotamia lies mostly in modern tribal groups. Iraq and northeastern syria, together - The growth of agriculture made with southeastern Turkey and permanent houses possible. western IranSumerian, - Mud brick houses and stilt-houses - the Sumerians' control of the region settlements were also common. lasted for short of 2,000 ears before - The clothing of the Neolithic humans the Babylonians took charge in 2004 were made of animal skins. B.C. - Reliance upon the foods produced - Known for their innovations in from cultivated lands. language, governance, architecture - Encouraged the growth of and more, Sumerians are settlements. considered the creator: of civilization - Production of surplus crop yields as modern humans understand it. - It is situated between the Tigris and Growth of Agriculture Euphrates rivers. - Surpluses could be stored and traded. - Agricultural life afforded securities. - Sedentary farming populations grew faster than nomadic. Egyptians - Microscope 3100 BC to 332 BC - Telescope - War weapons Eye of Horus - Related to the moon The Renaissance (14th to 17th Century) - Protective powers come from - Also regarded as the bridge between deflecting malevolent forces the middle ages and modern history that started as a cultural movement Chinese in Italy, it later spread towards the (1600 BC to 221 BC) rest of Europe. Greek Civilization Modern History and the Industrial (800 BC to 140 BC) Revolution (1700s to 1900s) - Alarm Clock - The Industrial Revolution Period - Water Mill (1870-1900s) of time when the face of industry changed dramatically. Roman Civilization - Lasting impact on the economies of (753 BC to 476 AD) the world and the lives of the person. - Newspaper - Introduction of inventions that made - Bound Books or Codex the life of people easier. - Roman Architecture - The advancement of the textile - Roman Numerals industry was a key development in the Industrial Revolution. The Middle "Dark" Ages (476 AD to - The cotton gin increased productivity 1400s) of removing seed from cotton. - Middle ages - Term for western - Invented by Eli Whitney Europe during the Postclassical Era - Large gains in productivity also (A.P. World History's 3rd time period. occurred in spinning and weaving of - Middle ages began with the fall of textile. The first that employed the the Roman Empire (476) and ended factory system. in the 1400s. - The use of machines and an - Also referred to as the Dark Ages "assembly-line" approach - The term "the West" = Western - James Watt created the first truly Europe, but later included America reliable steam engine in 1775. - This invention made locomotives Problems that rose during the "Dark and many of the textile machines Ages" possible. - Lack of a central government - Widespread diseases (plagues) Coal mining is the process of extracting - Long religious wars coal from the ground. - Little to no access to education - Coal is valued for its energy content - Slow technological or cultural - Industrialization increased the development demand significantly. - Printing Press - The substitution of coal for charcoal Agricultural Machines greatly lowered the fuel cost of iron - Joseph Foljambe's Rotherham production. plough of 1730 was the first - The charcoal powered steam engine commercially successful Iron plough. enabled a large increase in iron - The threshing machine, invented by production. Andrew Meikle in 1784, displaced hand threshing with a flail, a Invention of Machine Tools laborious job that took about - Invention of first machine tools. one-quarter of agricultural labor. - These included the screw cutting lathe, cylinder boring machine and The Tin Can the milling machine. - The humble tin can was patented by a British merchant Peter Durand in Use of Chemistry 1810. - The large-scale production of - It would have an incalculable impact chemicals was an important on food preservation and development during the Industrial transportation right up to the present Revolution. day. - Production of sulphuric acid was - John Hall and Bryan Dorkin opened pioneered by the Englishman John the very first commercial canning Roebuck in 1746. factory in England in 1813. - Production for fertilizers, detergents, dyes, explosives, drugs and other Internal Combustion Engine chemicals. - Jean Lenoir invented the internal - Germany took world leadership in combustion engine in 1858. the chemical industry during the - Internal Combustion Engine is a industrial industry. heat engine where the combustion - Aspiring chemists flocked to of a fuel occurs with an oxidizer German universities during the (usually air) in a combustion period. chamber that is an integral part of the working fluid flow circuit. Invention of Cement - Eventually this engine was used in - In 1824 Joseph Aspin, a British mass transportation. bricklayer turned builder, patented a chemical process for making Electricity Portland cement. - The development of electricity as a - This process involves sintering a source of power had been done by mixture of clay and limestone to an international collection of about 1,400 °C (2,552 °F), then scientists including. Benjamin grinding it into a fine powder which is Franklin, Alessandro Volta, and then mixed with water, sand and Michael Faraday. gravel to produce concrete. Automobile - Scientists in the Soviet Union appear - Henry Ford was by far one of the to have used the term most imperative inventors of the "Anthropocene" as early as the Industrial Revolution. 1960s to refer to the Quaternary, the - It enabled people to go wherever most recent geological period. they wanted whenever they wanted. - The term was widely popularized in - The automobile modernize the 2000 by atmospheric chemist Paul J. transportation industry entirely. Crutzen, who regards the influence of human behavior on Earth's Camera atmosphere in recent centuries as - Beginning in 1814, Joseph so significant as to constitute a new Nicéphore Niépce the first person to geological time. ever take a photograph. Nuclear Weapons Telephone - Warfares have left their mark on - Alexander Graham Bell created the geology. telephone in 1876. - When the first nuclear weapon was - The telephone further improved detonated on 16 July 1945 in New communications and eventually led Mexico to the various communications devices used today. Fossil Fuels - Burning fossil fuels mark Phonograph Anthropocene age. - Thomas Edison created the - Current rates of carbon emission are phonograph in 1877. thought to be higher than at any time - Prior to the creation of the in the last 65 million years. phonograph the only option for entertainment was for live musicians Plastic Use or actors to perform. - Plastics, initially developed in the - This allowed people to listen to 1900s, have grown rapidly since the music anywhere. 1950s, and we now produce 500 Phonograph million tons a year. - Brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright - Sediments containing plastics will be created the first airplane in 1903. a clear sign of the Anthropocene. - Within a few decades planes had changed the face of personal and Changed Geology business travel and had dramatically - Every time we destroy a patch of altered warfare. rainforest, this changes the future of Earth's geology. The Anthropocene (Present) The Rise of - We have transformed more than 50 the Human Empire % of Earth's land area for our own - The era in which human activity has purposes. been the dominant influence on - Deforestation, farming, drilling, climate and the environment. mining, landfills, dam-building and coastal reclamation are all having The Dark Side of Technology widespread effects on sedimentary - Technology is a mostly positive processes. endeavor, except for some troubling - Disrupting how layers of rock are and unnerving possibilities Michio laid down, which will be detectable Kaku refers to as "wildcards." thousands of years in the future. - The unanticipated uses of technology and science threaten to Use of Fertilizers turn happy futuristic dreams into - Our attempts to feed an increasing nightmares. population will leave clear indicators, too. - Levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in soils have doubled in the last century because of our increased use of fertilizers. - We produce 23.5 million tons of phosphorus a year. - Human activity had the biggest impact on the nitrogen cycle for 2.5 billion years. Global Warming - Unusually rapid increase in Earth's average surface temperature over the past century primarily due to the greenhouse gases released as people burn fossil fuels. - Rate of temperature increase has nearly doubled in the last 50 years. - Average global sea levels are higher than at any point in the past 115,000 years and are rising rapidly, which may also be detectable in future. 6th Mass Extinction - The moment of extinction is generally considered to be the death of the last individual of the species. - Mass extinctions sparked by massive global changes mark the Anthropocene period.