Reviewer for Science, Technology, and
Society (STS) Finals
Living in the information age
Technology: tecnhe = art; logos = word
Technological devices
Roles and effects in the society
Problems/ethical dilemmas
Television
- Platform for information dissemination
- Ultimate platform for advertisement placements
- It serves as a recreational activity and good stress reliever to most families
- A good platform for different propagandas and advocacies
See the lecture video about the different parts of this mechanical tv. (Nipkow disk – square holes arranged
in circular pattern; photoelectric cell or selenium cell, light source)
See lecture on how cathode ray tube works (cathode – releases electrons, anode – it would accelerate the
electrons; deflection plate – would convert the electrons to electron beam and deflect the electron beam to
create lines on the screen.)
- Parents would argue that these devices make their children lazy and unhealthy
- Experience alienation
- Moral dilemma: exposure to various things that are inappropriate
- It is not the fault of technological devices that devices are somewhat ethical or bring undesirable
consequences, but the agents using them or the ones making them.
Information age
NANOTECHNOLOGY
refers to the science, engineering, and technology conducted at the nanoscale, which is about 1 to 100
nanometers.
Nanoscience - employs the study and application of exceptionally small things in other areas of science
including materials science, engineering, physics, biology, and chemistry.
the concept started in December 29, 1959
Physicist Richard Feynman discussed a method in which scientists can direct and control individual
atoms and molecules in his talk “There’s Plenty of Room at the Bottom” during the American Physical
Society meeting at the California Institute of Technology.
Professor Norio Taniguchi is credited with coining the term "nanotechnology" in 1974. He described
nanotechnology as the ability to control and manipulate materials on an atomic and molecular level. This
laid the foundation for the broader concept of nanotechnology we understand today
Types of electron microscope
1. Electron microscope
o Scanning electron microscope (surface only)
o Transmission electron microscope (surface + internal structure)
2. Atomic Force microscope
3. Scanning tunneling microscope
Benefits and issues of nanotechnology
Environment
- Nanotechnology enables the development of more effective energy-producing and storing devices
such as batteries and solar cells. This can contribute to a cleaner environment by:
o Reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting renewable energy sources.
o Improving the efficiency of energy storage, potentially reducing overall energy
consumption.
Health
Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize healthcare through the creation of smart drugs. These
drugs can deliver medication directly to diseased cells, potentially leading to:
- Faster healing times
- Reduced side effects from traditional medications
- Advancements in treating complex diseases like cancer and diabetes
Economy
Enhanced Electronics: Smaller, more efficient electronic devices like transistors, diodes, and displays can
lead to significant cost reductions in manufacturing and potentially lower prices for consumers. This can
also improve portability and performance of various electronic gadgets.
Advanced Materials: Industries can benefit from stronger, lighter materials like nanotubes and
nanoparticles. This can lead to the development of more durable, lightweight products across various
sectors, potentially reducing production costs and improving product lifespans.
GENETECHNOLOGY
WHAT IS GENE TECHNOLO GY?
A range of activities concerned with understanding how genes are expressed, taking advantage of natural
genetic variation, modifying genes, and transferring genes to new hosts.
WHAT IS A GENE?
A gene is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity.
Genes are made up of DNA.
F O RMS OF GENE T E C H N O L O G Y
1. G E N E T I C E N G I N EE R I N G
2. G E N E T H E RA P Y
Genetic engineering – also known as genetic modification, is the process of manipulating an organism’s
genetic makeup in a laboratory setting.
Please understand at least one of the following on how CRISPR-Cas9 modifies the genetic makeup of the
organism.
Role of CRISPR-Cas9: CRISPR-Cas9 can be used to precisely correct mutations in the CFTR gene
responsible for cystic fibrosis. The Cas9 enzyme is guided to the specific location of the mutated DNA
sequence by a guide RNA. After the DNA is cut, the cell’s natural repair mechanisms can introduce the
correct sequence, effectively replacing the defective gene with a functional one. This substitution restores
the normal function of the CFTR protein, alleviating symptoms of the disease. (CFTR stands for Cystic
Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator, which is a protein encoded by the CFTR gene.)
Insertion: Insect-Resistant Plant
• Role of CRISPR-Cas9: Insect resistance in plants, such as corn or cotton, can be achieved by
inserting specific genes that produce insecticidal proteins (e.g., Bt toxin). CRISPR-Cas9 facilitates
this process by precisely cutting the plant genome at a target site, allowing the integration of a
foreign DNA segment. This modification results in the plant expressing proteins that are toxic to
specific insect pests, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
Deletion: Reduction of Saturated Fat in Milk
Role of CRISPR-Cas9: To reduce saturated fat content in milk, CRISPR-Cas9 can be used to delete
specific genes associated with the production of saturated fats in dairy cattle. The Cas9 enzyme creates a
double-strand break in the DNA at the target gene, and the cell’s repair process (non-homologous end
joining) removes the gene segment. This deletion alters the metabolism of the cattle, resulting in milk with a
healthier fat profile.
Effects of climate change
WHAT IS BIODIVERSITY?
Biodiversity refers to the extensive range of life forms found on Earth, encompassing everything from
single-celled organisms to the most complex multicellular entities.
The variability among living organisms from all sources, including terrestrial, marine, and other aquatic
ecosystems, as well as the ecological complexes of which they are a part. This definition encompasses
diversity within species, between species, and among ecosystems.
Energy Crisis
This is the significant disruption or shortage in the supply of energy resources, leading to a variety of
economic, environmental, and social problems.
It typically involves the depletion of nonrenewable energy sources, such as oil, coal, and natural gas, along
with the consequent increase in energy costs, reduced availability of energy, and potentially severe
environmental impacts.
Causes of Energy Crisis
1. Overconsumption
2. Overpopulation
3. Aging Infrastructure
4. Energy Waste
5. Environmental
6. Economic and Socio-Political
Energy Crisis Prevention
1. Energy transition to renewable energy sources
2. Energy efficiency and conservation
Environmental awareness
It promotes understanding about environmental issues and encouraging responsible behavior. It aims to
develop environmental literacy,which means having the skills and knowledge to address environmental
challenges effectively.
How are you going to use your environmental awareness to contribute to society?
