Republic of the Philippines
PARTIDO STATE UNIVERSITY
Camarines Sur
PSY-SYL-___-___
GE7- Science, Technology & Society
ACTIVITY
Name:Janmar R. Corral
Section: BSA - 2A
Instruction: Watch the short film “Village of the Watermills” by Akira Kurosawa’s Dreams
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aK4mtPQ_THM) and answer the following questions:
1. Reflecting on the film, what are some potential benefits and drawbacks of living a
technologically driven life compared to a more traditional and nature-oriented lifestyle?
The contrasting realities shown in Akira Kurosawa's "Village of the Watermills" provide a
foundation for exploring the benefits and drawbacks of a tech-driven life vs a traditional, nature-
oriented one. Technology frequently simplifies jobs and processes, making daily life easier and
more efficient. Technological breakthroughs provide access to large volumes of knowledge,
increasing learning, innovation, and problem resolution. This can lead to personal and societal
development. It increases efficiency, allowing jobs to be accomplished more quickly and with
less effort. The film may not show it, but contemporary tools can improve agriculture,
communication, and access to knowledge. On the other hand, over reliance on technology can
lead to isolation. Social engagement may become limited to digital environments, eroding real-
world bonds. The film's silent, unconscious villagers may depict this separation. Emphasizing
technology may cause a detachment from the natural world, resulting in a weakened
appreciation for ecosystems, biodiversity, and the value of sustainable living practices.
2. What does the author mean by the statement that technology has caused a disconnect
between us and the Earth?
In "Village of the Watermills," Akira Kurosawa depicts a world in which traditional watermills
powered by the natural flow of water signify a healthy relationship between humanity and the
environment. The assertion that technology has created a division between us and the Earth
implies that as cultures adopt more complex advances in technology, they frequently isolate
themselves from the natural world and the basic connection of humans and their environment.
The watermills in the film symbolize a utilitarian perspective. Nature is exploited for a specific
purpose, potentially at the expense of the natural world's beauty and complexity. The film draws
a contrast between the village's digital life and the narrator's memories of a more natural
growing up. This could represent a concern that technology is eroding cultural traditions and
ways of living that were more environmentally conscious.
Republic of the Philippines
PARTIDO STATE UNIVERSITY
Camarines Sur
PSY-SYL-___-___
3. How does the film explore the concept of faith and its role in the villagers' celebration of life
and approach to death? How does this contrast with the prevalent beliefs and practices in
modern culture?
The people' faith appears to be connected with nature. The watermill, which is propelled by
natural forces, may represent their belief system. They view the cycle of life and death as part of
a broader natural order.Death is not feared or avoided in the community; rather, it is accepted as
a normal part of the life cycle. The elderly woman's acceptance of her approaching death and
gentle departure demonstrate the villagers' belief in the continuation of life beyond the physical
field. Death is viewed as a transition rather than an end, and the villagers take comfort in the
notion that their spirits will rejoin the endless flow of life. In contrast, modern culture frequently
demonstrates a separation from spiritual traditions and a preoccupation with commercial
pursuits. Spending, individualism, and technological distractions might overwhelm faith in the
interconnection of all things, as well as reverence for nature. The film could be a critique of how
contemporary life has separated us from nature and a more calm acceptance of death. The film
does not provide easy answers. It prompts viewers to consider their own perspectives on faith,
death, and our place in the natural world.
