Chapter I.

GENERAL CONCEPTS IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND SOCIETY

Science and technology indeed play major roles in the everyday life. They make
difficult and complicated tasks easier and allow people to do more with so little effort and time.
The developments in this field are not just products of people’s imagination or a one-time
thought process; they are also brought about by gradual improvements to earlier works from
different time periods. The driving force behind this continuous progress is the desire to raise
the quality of life of the people.

Learning Outcomes

 Explain how science and technology affected the society and environment and vice
versa;
 Identify inventions and discoveries that changed the world over the course of history;
and
 Discuss the scientific and technological developments in the Philippines.

LESSON 1: HISTORICAL ANTECEDENTS IN THE COURSE OF SCIENCE

AND TECHNOLOGY

ANCIENT TIMES

In the ancient times, people were concerned with transportation and navigation,
communication and record-keeping, mass production, security and protection, as well as
health, aesthetics, and architecture.

Transportation was significant during that time because people were trying to go
places and discover new horizons. They travelled to search for food and find better locations
for their settlements. They also travelled to trade their surplus goods in exchange for things
that they lacked. Navigation assisted them in their journeys to unfamiliar and strange areas in
the world. It allowed them to return home after they discovered new places or completed an
important trade with another group of people.

Communication was also essential in their endeavors to discover and occupy new
places. They needed a way to communicate with the natives of the areas they visited so as to
facilitate trade and prevent possible conflicts. Record-keeping was also important since they
needed to remember the places they had been to and document the trades they made with
each other. It was also vital to keep records of their history and culture so they could establish
their identities as they tried to relate with other cultures and civilizations.

Weapons and armors were important as well in the discovery of new places or the
establishment of new alliances with other tribes. At that time, there was always a risk of
conflict when people met others with different culture and orientations. Conflicts were
common especially if different groups struggled to control vital resources. Stronger nations
tended to invade weaker ones so they could take much needed resources. As such, the
development of weapons and armors for security and protection was considered a major
achievement.

A primary challenge they faced was the conservation of life. The early people might
have been successful in harnessing the rich resources that the world could provide, but their
survival posed a great problem. Different illness and diseases, both natural and man-made,
hampered the full potential of a human being/ given this predicament, science and technology
played a major role in the discovery of cures to, if not the prevention of, illness.

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 Moreover, in order to integrate their needs for better transportation, establishment of
structures for protection from human attacks and natural disasters, and construction of bigger
and stronger infrastructures people ventured into what is now known as the field of
engineering. The development in this field allowed humans to build structures that would
address their specific needs and wants. Some of the structures built during the ancient times
exist today and continually awe people.

The development in engineering also ushered in the introduction of architecture.

Others might see architecture as a mere style, but during the ancient times, elaborate
architectural designs were signs of technological advancement of a particular civilization.

SUMERIAN CIVILIZATION

Sumeria is located on the southernmost tip of ancient Mesopotamia. Sumerians are

known for their high degree of cooperation with one another and their desire for great things.
They are not contented with the basic things that life can offer. This desire pushed them to
develop many things connected with science and technology.

Cuneiform

One of the major contributions of the Sumerians

is the development of the first writing system known as
cuneiform. It is a system that utilizes word pictures and
triangular symbols which are carved on clay using
wedge instruments and then left to dry. Cuneiform
allowed the Sumerians to keep records of things with
great historical value or their everyday life.

Uruk City

Another important contribution of the Sumerians

is the City of Uruk. It is a great wonder not only because it is considered to be the first true
city in the world but also for the way it was erected. There were no building stones in the
location of this city and lumber was limited, making the construction a big challenge. The
Sumerians were able to build the city using only mud or clay from the river, which they mixed
with reeds, producing sun-baked bricks a true engineering feat. They used the bricks to make
houses that protected them from the harsh weather and to build a wall around the city
prevented wild animals and neighboring raiders from entering.

The Great Ziggurat of Ur

Another engineering and architectural feat of

the Sumerians is the Great Ziggurat of ur. The ziggurat,
also called the mountain of God. Was built in the same
manner that they constructed the City of Uruk. Without
much building materials, the structure was constructed
using sunbaked bricks. The ziggurat served as the
sacred place of their chief god, where only their priests
were allowed to enter. The temple showcases not only
the elaborate and intricate Sumerian architecture but
also the remarkable technology used to build it. As
such, even until today, people still enjoy and marvel at
the preserved Great Ziggurat of Ur.

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Irrigation and Dikes

As population increased, so did the demand for

food. The Sumerians were challenged to mass produce
food items but the elements in the environment seemed
uncooperative. It was difficult to get water from the
rivers, thus they could not maintain farmlands. Some
groups had scare water supply, while others had
problems with flooding caused by the river. As a solution
to this dilemma, the Sumerians created dikes and
irrigation canals to bring water to farmlands and at the
same time control the flooding of the rivers. This method
was considered as one of the world’s most beneficial
engineering works. Through the dikes and canals, the
Sumerians were able to enjoy year-long farming and
harvesting, which increased their food production.

Sailboats

Another challenge to the Sumerians was

transportation. At that time, the wheel was not yet
invented; the main mode of transportation was through
waterways such as rivers and seas. Boats were used to
carry large quantities of products and were able to
cover large distances. However, they wanted to
discover faraway lands to settle since the population
was getting larger, and boats were not enough to
accommodate more people and products. They needed
a mode of transportation that did not require much
human resource.

Wheel

In the latter part of their history, the Sumerians

were able to invent the wheel since the specialized tools
needed to create it were already available. The first wheel
were not made for transportation but for farm work and
food processes. With the use of the wheel and axle, mass
production was made easier. Farmers were able to mill
grains with less effort in less time.

The Plow

Another farm technology invented by the

Mesopotamians is the plow. Humans evolved
from being food gatherers to farm
cultivations. However, farmers needed a
technology which would enable them to dig
the ground where seeds would be planted.
The plow was invented to dig earth in a faster
pace. As the plow breaks the ground, the
farmer would just drop the seeds and farm

3
work would already be done. With this tool, farmers could cultivate larger parcels of land
faster, enabling them to mass produce food without taking so much effort and time.

Roads

In order to facilitate faster and easier travel, the Sumerians developed the first roads.
With this work, the flow of traffic became faster and more organized. They made the roads
with the same technology they used in making the sun-baked bricks that they laid down on
the ground. They later poured bitumen, a black sticky substance similar to asphalt, to
smoothen the roads. The invention of roads was very useful especially during the rainy
season when travelling in soft and muddy roads proved to be difficult.

BABYLONIAN CIVILIZATION

Babylonian civilization emerged near the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. The
Babylonians were great builders, engineers, and architects. One of their major contributions is
the hanging gardens of Babylon, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

Hanging Gardens of Babylon

Today, people can only marvel at the beauty of the famous Hanging Gardens of
Babylon from stories of historians and paintings that portray the place. It was said to be a
structure made up of layers upon layers of gardens that contained several species of plants,
trees, and vines. According to legends, the great Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar II built the
gardens for his wife, Queen Amytis.
However, no physical evidence has
been found to prove the existence of the
Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Its exact
location is also unknown. Since time
immemorial, people have been debating
about the existence of the said mythical
place. Many said it was just a product of
the creative imagination of the great
King because it lacked documentation
or archaeological evidence. On the
other hand, if it really existed, it must
have been destroyed by war, erosion, or
an earthquake. True or not, hearing the
stories and description of the place would be enough to inspire awe to anyone. One can
imagine the thick greenery decorated by beautiful flowers coming from different places in the
garden and complicated design of the infrastructure. If the stories were true, the Hanging
Gardens of Babylon may be considered as one of the greatest engineering and architectural
achievements of the world that is almost impossible to replicate.

EGYPTIAN CIVILIZATION

Another early civilization famous for its legacy is the Egyptian civilization located in
North Africa. Many stories tell about the engineering feats of the Egyptians especially
regarding the infrastructures established by the Pharaohs. Aside from engineering
technology, the Egyptians have contributed other practical things that the world now
considers as essential.it is thus safe to say that the pyramids are not the only contribution of
the Egyptian civilization to the modern world.

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Paper or Papyrus

One of the earlier contributions of Egyptian

civilization was the papyrus. Although Egypt was not
the first to develop a system of writing, they were able
to make writing easier for the world. Before the
Egyptian innovation, clay tablets were used. However,
safe-keeping and transportating them were a major
problem. Clay tablets were very fragile, heavy, and
delicate to handle. So bringing them to places was a
major challenge.

Ink

When the Egyptians invented the papyrus or the paper, engraving ceased to be used
in writing. As a result, the Egyptians invented ink by combining soot with different chemicals
to produce inks of different colors. The ink must withstand the elements of nature since it was
used to record history, culture, and codified laws. It must also be tamper-proof so that people
could not simply tinker with those written down by authorities.

Hieroglyphics

Like the Sumerians, the Egyptians also

developed a system of writing using symbols, known as
hieroglyphics. Although some say that hieroglyphics
was adapted from the early writing system established
in Mesopotamia as a result of trade between
civilizations, the Egyptians believed that this writing
system was provided to them by their gods. This form
of writing can still be seen today and remains to be as
famous as the pyramids where they were found.
Hieroglyphics was the language that tells the modern
world of the history and culture of the ancient
Egyptians. Their records were well-preserved since
they were carved at the walsls of pyramids and other important Egyptian structures.

Cosmetics

The Egyptian also invented the use of cosmetics. Although cosmetics in the modern
times are used to improve and highlight the facial features of a person, their function in
ancient Egypt was for both health and aesthetic reasons. Egyptians wore kohl was created by
mixing soot or malachite with mineral galena. Egyptians also believed that a person wearing
make-up was protected from evil and that beauty was a sign of holiness. At present, the
cosmetic industry is a booming multibillion industry.

Wig

Another cosmetic invention of ancient

Egyptians is the wig. At present, wigs are used to
enhance the appearance of people who are
balding or those who want to try new hair trends.
Meanwhile, during the ancient Egyptian times,
wigs were worn for health and wellness rather
than for aesthetics purposes. The wigs were used
to protect the shaved heads of the wealthy
Egyptians from the harmful rays of the sun.
Wearing a wig was better than putting on a scarf
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or any other head cover since a wig allowed heat to escape. Moreover, it was considered
cleaner than natural hair because it prevented the accumulation of head lice.

Water Clock/Clepsydra

Another important ancient Egyptian

contribution is the water clock. This device utilizes
gravity that affects the flow of water from one vessel
to the other. The amount of water (or its height,
depending on the method used) remaining in the
device determines how much time has elapsed since
it is full. In the process, time is measured. The water
clock was widely used as a timekeeping device during
the ancient times.

GREEK CIVILIZATION

Greece is an archipelago in the southeastern part of Europe. Known as the birthplace

of western philosophy, some of the major achievements of the Greeks include in-depth works
on philosophy and mathematics. More than coliseums and the Olympics, the Greek
civilization has contributed much to the world especially in the fields of science and
technology.

Alarm Clock

One of the most utilized gadgets today that

was invented by the ancient Greeks is the alarm
clock. Although the alarm clock during that time did
not resemble the present-day alarm clock, the
purpose was just the same to tell an individual when
to stop or when to start. The ancient Greek’s alarm
clock used large complicated mechanisms to time
the alarm. They made use of water (or sometimes
small stones or sand) that dropped into drums which
sounded the alarm.

Water Mill

Watermills were also considered as one of the most important contributions of the
Greek civilization to the world. They were commonly used in agricultural processes like milling
of grains which was a necessary form of food processing during that time. Because milling
was made possible by the use watermills, the mass production of rice, cereals, flours, and the
like became common.

ROMAN CIVILIZATION

The Roman Empire was perceived to be the

strongest political and social entity in the west. It was
considered to be the cradle of politics and
governance during that period. Because the Roman
Empire was so large, other civilization looked up to it
as their model in terms of legislation and codified
laws.

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Newspaper

One of the major contributions of the Romans is the newspaper. The first
newspapers, known as gazettes, contained announcements of the Roman Empire to the
people. Made before the invention of paper, these gazettes were engraved in metal or stone
tablets and then publicly displayed.

Bound Books or Codex

With the invention of paper, it

became easier for civilizations to write
down everything that happened in
their time. Record-keeping was much
easier since paper did not easily
break, was lightweight, and did not
occupy much space. As a result,
civilization became fond of record-
keeping, especially documenting
historical events and newly legislated
laws.

Roman architecture

Roman architecture is one of

the most visual contributions of the
ancient Roman Empire to the world.
Roman architecture was considered a
continuation of Greek architecture,
hence, the resemblance. However,
roman architecture was still regarded
as pioneering since the Romans were
able to adapt new building and
engineering technology on
architectural designs established in
the past.

Roman Numerals

Although other number systems had already been established before the Roman
numeral, these old systems could not keep up with high calculation requirements due to the
increasing rate of communication and trade among nations. Since the Roman Empire was
expanding, it had to deal with many nations to maintain its power. For this reason, the
Romans devised their own number system specifically to address the need for a standard
counting method that would meet their increasing communication and trade concerns.

CHINESE CIVILIZATION

The Chinese Civilization is considered to be the oldest civilization in Asia, if not the
world. Also known as the middle kingdom, china is located on the far east of Asia. It was
famous among other ancient civilizations because of its silk trade. Not a great amount was
written about ancient China partly due to its distance from the other civilizations. Despite its

7
less popular status among the early civilizations, one cannot discredit the significant
contributions of Chinese civilization to the world.

Silk

One of the things that connected Far East china to the world is silk. Although silk is
naturally produced by silk worms, the Chinese were the ones who developed the technology
to harvest the silk and process it to produce paper and clothing. Silk production resulted in the
creation of a production of trade. The silk trade opened china to the outside world, making
way for cultural, economic, and scientific exchanges. It bridged the gap between the western
world and the middle kingdom.

Tea production

Tea is a beverage produced by pouring hot or

boiling water over crushed or shredded dried
tea leaves. It was believed that the first tea was
drunk by a Chinese emperor. Tea production
was developed when an unknown Chinese
inventor created a machine that was able to
shred tea leaves into strips. This machine was
done using a wheel-based mechanism with
sharp edges attached to a wooden or ceramic
pot. Because of this invention, the Chinese
were able to increase their production of tea
and trade with other nations. China thus
became known for its tea exports aside from its
silk products. Tea production developed by the ancient Chinese may have resulted in making
tea as one of the most popular beverages in the world today.

Great Wall of China

One considered the only man-made

structure that could be seen from outer space,
the Great Wall of China is said to be the
largest and most extensive infrastructure that
the nation built. It was constructed to keep out
foreign invaders and control the borders of
china. Made with stone, brick, wood, earth,
and other materials, it showcased the extent
of Chinese engineering technology at that
time. The structure was so massive and
strong that it was said to have literally divided
china from the rest of the world. The wall’s
construction put the nation among the powerful civilization during the ancient times. It was the
pride of their land and their crowning glory. Today, with some sections already ruins, the great
wall still continues to be a world attraction due to its historical significance and architectural
grandeur.

Gunpowder

The gunpowder is one of the most interesting inventions in china. Originally, it was
developed by Chinese alchemists who aimed to achieve immortality. They mixed charcoal,
sulfur, and potassium nitrate, but instead of creating an elixir of life, the accidently invented a
black powder that could actually generate large amounts of heat and gas in an instant.

8
MEDIEVAL/MIDDLE AGES

The start of the middle ages was marred by massive invasions and migrations. Wars
were prevalent during this time. As such, great technology was needed in the fields of
weaponry, navigation, mass food and farm production, and health. The wars have resulted in
population decline, but during the latter part of the period, there was a significant rise in
population. Trade and commerce among nations increased, which resulted in greater
demands for transportation technology. Some of the most innovative minds came from this
period.

Printing Press

After the Chinese developed woodblock printing, Johann Gutenberg was able to
invent the printing press, a more reliable way of printing using a cast type. He utilized wooden
machines that extracted juices from fruits, attached to them a metal impression of the letters,
and pressed firmly the cast metal into a piece of paper, which then made an exact impression
on paper.

Microscope

Another invention in the middle Ages is the microscope. Growing populations caused
massive migration and urbanization during the period. More and more people transferred to
polluted and populated urban areas which resulted in more people getting sick and needing
medical attention. To develop the proper medicines for illness, experts must understand the
sickness through an investigation. Thus, they needed a device that could magnify things
invisible to the eye.

Telescope

Since the Middle Ages was also known as the Age of exploration, the need for
nautical inventions was high. Considering the vast and empty oceans that separated lands,
ship captains needed to see far and wide for them to navigate or to avoid dangers at sea. The
invention of the telescope, an optical instrument that helps in the observation of remote
objects, was a great help for navigators during this time. Together with the telescope, the
invention of the compass, oars, and rudders made sea travelling easier and safer (Helden,
1989).

War Weapons

Since wars were widespread during the Middle Ages, great development in the
weaponry technology also occurred. All sides must develop weaponries not only as offensive
tools but also as defensive instruments. For open-area battles, people developed cross bows
so that they could attack the enemies at long ranges, keeping themselves safe with the
protection of walls and fortresses.

MODERN TIMES

The booming world population during the nineteenth century onwards demanded that
more goods be produced at a faster rate. People needed efficient means of transportation to
trade more goods and cover a larger distance. Machines that required animals to operate
must thus be upgraded. Faster and easier means to communicate and compute should be
developed to establish connections between among nations.

Pasteurization

As people were able to develop better means of production to meet the needs of
population, food preservation and food safety became an issue. The challenge to keep

9
manufactured food from deteriorating was greater for dairy products, especially milk, since
they usually spoled faster.

Petroleum Refinery

The modern times demanded better means of powering homes and transportation. At
first, people used animal oils for generating light to illuminate their homes. However, the
production of animal oils could not keep up with the demand faced with this concern; Samuel
M. Kier was able to invent kerosene by refining petroleum. Kerosene was later on referred to
as the “illuminating oil” because it was used at first to provide lighting to homes. After some
time, it was applied for heating purposes. The development of kerosene established the
petroleum refinery industry (Skrabec, 2010). At present, petroleum is widely used in powering
automobiles, factories, and power plants, among others.

Telephone

The more people got concerned by trade and exploration, the more they needed a
way to easily maintain these connections and communicate with each other in real time.
Governments likewise needed some kind of communication system which would allow them
to administer their states well. Important day-to-day decisions must be discussed and
addressed at the fastest time possible. Thus, the development of the telephone by Alexander
Graham Bell was one of the most important inventions at that time.

Calculator

Although an earlier version of the calculator had already been developed,

circumstances in the modern times required a faster way to compute more complicated
equations. Computing devices must also be easy to carry since they would be utilized on a
day-to-day basis. The creation of modern calculators did not only pave the way for easier
arithmetic calculations, but also resulted in the development of more complex processing
machines like the computer.

PHILIPPINE INVENTIONS

Despite being considered a developing country, the Philippines also contributes to the
global advancement of science and technology. It is quite remarkable to note the ingenuity of
the Filipinos despite the lack in resources. The Philippines is known to be one of the most
vulnerable countries in terms of natural disasters. Many of the discoveries and inventions
made by the Filipinos were therefore built from indigenous materials or created to adapt to the
harsh tropical encvironment.

Salamander Amphibious Tricycle

It has become ordinary for Filipinos to convert transport vehicles into something more
useful. An example is the conversion of American military jeeps used in World War II into
jeepneys. Another Filipino innovation is the addition of a sidecar to a motorcycle, transforming
into a tricycle to accommodate more passengers.

Salt lamp

One of the major needs in the Philippines, as a developing nation, is electrification.

Electricity powers various types of machines, including light sources. In many rural areas in
the country, activities would cease when it gets dark. It also becomes more dangerous to
travel. Filipinos have resorted to using candles and kerosene lamps but they carry certain
risks as they are fire hazards.

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Medical Incubator

A common in the Philippines is the high mortality rate of newborn babies. One reason
for this problem in the 20th century was the lack of resources and electricity. Dr. Fe del
Mundo, a Filipino pediatrician and the first Asian woman admitted into Harvard Medical
School, devised a medical incubator made from indigenous and cheap materials which did
not run on electricity. Dr. del Mundo’s incubator was made by placing a native laundry basket
inside a bigger one.

Mosquito Ovicidal/Larvicidal Trap System

Dengue, a mosquito-borne viral illness, is endemic in tropical and subtropical areas,

including the Philippines. This virus is usually transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquito,
rampant during the rainy season. Insecticides were previously used to kill the species.
However, recent studies show that insecticide resistance has evolved in some mosquito
populations. Likewise, using insecticides is harmful not only to humans but also to the
environment.

Eljeepney

A major innovation that changed the transportation industry in the Philippines was the
development of the jeepney. This iconic public utility vehicle was built using the military jeeps
left by the Americans after World War II. The chassis and the body of the military jeeps were
extended to accommodate more load and passengers. Because of its usefulness, the jeepney
dominated Philippine streets and is considered as the primary mode of transportation of most
Filipinos. However, the diesel powered jeepney produces large quantities of black smoke, and
usually contributor of noise pollution due to its primitive exhaust system.

Assessment:

1. What historical antecedents gave rise to the inventions you mentioned in the first
question?
2. How did the developments in science and technology shape human history?

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 LESSON 2: INTELLECTUAL REVOLUTIONS THAT DEFINED SOCIETY

The developments during the Intellectual Revolution showed how society was
transformed by science and technology. This chapter aims to establish the interaction
between science and technology ans society, cementing further the relationship as
introduced in the first chapter.

Learning Outcomes

 Discuss how the ideas postulated by copernicus, darwin and freud contributed to the
spark of scientific revolution;
 Analyze how scientific revolution is done in various parts of the world like in latin
america, east asia, middle east, and africa.
 Explain how the intellectual revolution changed the way how humans see the world;
and
 Describe the technological advancements that happened in the information age.

SCIENTIFIC REVOLUTION

Science is as old as the world itself. There is no individual that can exactly identify
when and where science began. From the genesis of time, science has existed. It is always
interwoven with the society. So, how can science be defined?

1. Science as an idea. It includes ideas, theories, and all available systematic explanations
and observations about the natural and physical world.

2. Science as an intellectual activity. It encompasses a systematic and practical study of

the natural and physical world. This process of study involves systematic observation and
experimentation.

3. Science as a body of knowledge. It is a subject or a discipline, a field of study, or a body

of knowledge that deals with the process of learning about the natural and physical world.
This is what we refer to as school science.

4. Science as a personal and social activity. This explains that science is both knowledge
and activities done by human beings to develop better understanding of the world around
them. It is a means to improve life and to survive in life. It is interwoven with people’s lives.

Scientific revolution was the period of enlightment when the developments in the
fields of mathematics, physics, astronomy, biology, and chemistry transformed the views of
society about nature. It explained the emergence of birth of modern science as a result of
these developments from the disciplines mentioned. The ideas generated during this period
enabled the people to reflect, rethink, and reexamine their beliefs and their way of life. There
is no doubt that it ignited vast human interests to rethink how they do science and view
scientific process.

Scientific revolution was the golden age for people committed to scholarly life in
science but it was also a deeply trying moment to some scientific individuals that led to their
painful death or condemnation from the religious institution who tried to preserve their faith,
religion, and theological views. Some rulers and religious leaders did not accept many of the
early works of scientists to satisfy their curiosity of the natural and physical world.

12
 SCIENCE
IDEAS

SCIENTIFIC
REVOLIUTIONS

HUMANS SOCIETY

Figure 1. Influences of Scientific Revolution

Scientific revolution is very significant in the development of human beings,

transformation of the society, and in the formulation of scientific ideas. It significantly
improved the conduct of scientific investigations, experiments, and observations. The
scientific revolution also led to the creation of new research fields in science and prompted
the establishment of a strong foundation for modern science. In many ways, scientific
revolution transformed the natural world and the world of ideas.

COPERNICAN REVOLUTION

In the early times, people questioned what created days and nights. They wanted to
understand what heavenly bodies like stars, moons, and planets are. The invention of the
telescope allowed the people to take a peek at the outer space, but more importantly, it also
intrigued them to know what was actually out there.

Many Greek philosophers and intellectual wrote about planets in an attempt to

explain the movements of heavenly bodies and their effects on the world as they knew it.
Many of these philosophers agreed that planets moved around in circular motion, and that
these movements created days and nights, among others. A famous philosopher and
astronomer, Claudius Ptolemy, stated that the planets, as well as the sun and the moon,
moved in a circular motion around the Earth. The sun and moon’s revolution explained the
existence of days and nights. He believed that the earth was at the center a concept known
as geocentrism. Ptolemy’s geocentric model was widely accepted by the people and was
widely accepted by the people and was one of the greatest discoveries of that time.

In the 16th century, Nicolaus Copernicus, a Polish mathematician and astronomer,

challenged the Ptolemaic model. He introduced a new concept known as heliocentrism,
which was suggested that the center of the solar system was not the earth but actually the
sun. This idea was rejected at first by the public. It appalled many since their religious belief
had taught them that the Earth was created first before all other things. Copernicus was even
persecuted as a heretic because his teachings were against what was widely accepted by
religion. After some time, astronomers realized that the Copernican model simplified the orbits
for planets. It also answered isuues that could not be explained using the geocentric model.
Other works that supported this model started to emerge as well. It was eventually accepted
by the people in a period which was called the birth of modern astronomy. This era began
what was known as the scientific revolution which resulted in the transformation of society’s
thoughts and beliefs.

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DARWINIAN REVOLUTION

The Darwinian revolution was considered to be one of the most controversial

intellectual revolutions of its time. In 1859, Charles Darwin, an English naturalist, biologist,
and geologist, published his book, On the Origin of Species. In this book, Darwin introduced
the Theory of evolution, which posited that populations pass through a process of natural
selection in which only the fittest would survive. He stated that organisms have the ability to
adapt to their environment and would gradually change into something that would be more
competitive to survive, a process known as evolution. However, this theory became very
controversial as people perceived it to be contradictory to the church’s teachings that the
source of life is a powerful creator. The theory emerged at a time when most of the population
believed and accepted the biblical version of the Earth’s creation. Because of this conflict, the
people were divided some believed that the theory explained the origin of life, but the religious
and faithful strongly refuted it. It even sparked a massive debate between science and
religion.

FREUDIAN REVOLUTION

In the past, the field of psychology was always classified under philosophy.
Psychology was considered more of an art rather than science. In the late 19th century,
Sigmund Freud was able to change people’s perception of psychology with his revolutionary
theory of psychoanalysis.

Psychoanalysis is the study that explains human behavior. In this theory, Freud
explained that there are many conscious and unconscious factors that can influence behavior
and emotions. He also argued that personality is a product of three conflicting elements: id,
ego, and superego. Science hardliners brushed off the legitimacy of psychoanalysis as a
science since its concepts were more philosophical and supernatural. Many believed that
Freud’s theory had no scientific basis as no empirical or experimental data could support.

Development of Science in Mesoamerica

Mesoamerica includes the entire area of Central America from Southern Mexico up to
the boarder of South America. There is no doubt that the Mesoamerican region is rich in
culture and knowledge prior to the arrival of its European colonizers. The Maya civilization is
one of the famous civilizations that lasted for approximately 2,000 years. These people are
known for their works in astronomy. They incorporated their advanced understanding of
astronomy into their temples for astronomical observation. For example, the pyramid at
Chichen Itza in Mexico is situated at the location of the Sun during the spring and fall
equinoxes.

The Mayans also developed the technology for growing different crops and building
elaborate cities using ordinary machineries and tools. They built hydraulics system with
sophisticated waterways to supply water to different communities. Furthermore, they used
various tools and adapt themselves to innovations especially in the field of arts. The Mayans
built looms for weaving cloth and devised a rainbow of glittery paints made from mineral
called mica. They also believed to be one of the first people to produce rubber products 3,000
years before Goodyear received its patent in 1844.

The Mayans are considered one of the most scientifically advanced societies in
Mesoamerica. They are also famous as one of the world’s first civilizations to use a writing
system known as the Mayan hieroglyphics.

The Inca civilization is also famous in Mesoamerica. The Incas made advanced scientific
ideas considering their limitations as an old civilization. The following were scientific ideas and
tools that they developed to help them in everyday life:

14
 1. roads paved with stones;
2. stone buildings that surmounted for storing water for their crops to grow in all types of
land;
3. irrigation system and technique for storing water for their crops to grow in all types of
land;
4. calendar with 12 months to mark their religious festivals and prepare them for
planting season;
5. the first suspension bridge;
6. quipu, a system of knotted ropes to keep records that only experts can interpret; and
7. Inca textiles since cloth were one of the specially prized artistic achievements.

Development of Science in Asia

Asia is the biggest continent in the world and the home of many ancient civilizations.
It is a host to many cultural, economic, scientific, and political activities of all ages. In the field
of science, technology, and mathematics, great civilization s have stood out: India, china, and
the Middle East civilizations. These civilizations were incomparable in terms of their
contributions to the development of knowledge during their time.

India

India is a huge peninsula surrounded by vast bodies of water and fortified by huge
mountains in its northern boarders. The Indians creatively developed various ideas and
technologies useful in their everyday lives. They are known for manufacturing iron and in
metallurgical works. Their iron steel is considered to be the best and held with high regard in
the whole of Roman Empire.

India is also famous in medicine. For example, Ayurveda, a system of traditional medicine
that originated in ancient India before 2500 BC, is still practiced as a form of alternative
medicine. They discovered some medicinal properties of plants that led them to develop
medicines to sure various illnesses. Some ancient texts, like the Susruta Samhita, describe
different surgical and other medical procedures famous in Ancient India.

Ancient India is also notable in the field of astronomy. They developed theories on the
configuration of the universe, the spherical self-supporting Earth, and the year 360 days with
12 equal parts of 30 days each.

China

China is one of the ancient civilizations with substantial contributions in many areas of
life like medicine, astronomy, science, mathematics, arts, philosophy, and music, among
others. Chinese civilization have greatly influenced many of its neighbor countries like Korea,
Japan, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia Myanmar, and other countries that belong
to the old Silk Road.

The Chinese are known for traditional medicines, a product of centuries of

experiences and discovery of the Chinese people. They discovered various medical
properties and uses of different plants and animals to cure human illness. An example is the
practice of acupuncture.

Middle East Countries

The Middle East countries are dominantly occupied by Muslims. With the spread of
islam in the 7th and 8th centuries, a period of Muslim scholarship, or what is called the Golden
Age of Islam lasted until the 13th century. The common language of Arabic, access to Greek
texts from the intellectualization of the Muslims and provided their scholars knowledge to

15
create innovations and develop new ideas. But contrary to the Greeks, Muslim scientists
placed greater value on science experiments rather than plain-thought experiments. This led
to development of the scientific method in the Muslim world, and made significant
improvements by using experiments to distinguish between competing scientific theories set
within a generally empirical orientation. A Muslim scientist for his empirical proof of the
intromission theory of light.

Development of Science in Africa

Africa is blessed with natural and mineral resources. Science also emerged in this
part of the planet long before the Europeans colonized it. The history of science and
mathematics show that similar to other ancient civilizations, the early civilizations in Africa are
knowledge procedures, too.

The ancient Egyptian civilization has contributed immensely and made significant
advances in the fields of astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. For example, the
development of geometry was a product of necessity to preserve the layout and ownership of
farmlands of the Egyptians living along the Nile River.

Assessment:

1. Why do you think were most intellectual ideas controversial?

2. Why did the people accept these new discoveries despite being contradictory to what
was widely accepted at that time?
3. How can science influence government policies?

16
 LESSON 3. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND NATION-BUILDING

The development of science and technology in the Philippines has already come a
long way. Many significant inventions and discoveries have been accomplished by or
attributed to Filipinos. This chapter tackles how the development of science and technology
affect the development of the Philippines as a nation.

Learning Outcomes
 Explain how early filipinos applied scientific principles in their daily living;
 Present government policies on science and technology and explain their importance
to the nation; and
 Discuss the role of science and technology in nation-building

PRE-COLONIAL PERIOD

Scientific and technological development in the Philippines began in the pre-colonial

period. Even before the Spaniards came to the Philippine islands, early Filipino settlers were
already using certain plants and herbs as medicines. Systems of farming and animal-raising
were also implemented. Moreover, early Filipinos had also developed different modes of
transportation, whether terrestrial or maritime.

A complicated engineering feat was achieved by the natives of the Cordilleras when
they built rice terraces by hand. Through these terraces, the people were able to cultivate
crops on the mountainsides in cold temperatures. They incorporated an irrigation system that
uses water from the forests and mountain tops to achieve an elaborate farming system. The
rice terraces of the Cordilleras, which are still functional, show the innovative and ingenious
way of the natives to survive in an otherwise unfriendly environment.

Colonial Period

Colonization by the Spaniards provided the Philippines with modern means of

construction. Walls, roads, bridges, and other large infrastructure were built using some of the
engineering skills and tools brought by the Spaniards. In addition, the Spanish government
developed health and education systems that were enjoyed by the principalia class.

The American occupation modernized almost all aspects of life in the Philippines.
They established a government agency, the Bureau of Science, for the sole purpose of
nurturing development in the field of science and technology.

Post- Colonial Period

After achieving independence from the colonizers, the Philippines, under different
administrations, continued to pursue programs in science and technology. Each leadership
had its own science and technology agenda. However, it is important to note than some
Philippine presidents posted more developments in the field than others.

One of the presidents who ushered in advancements in science and technology was
former president and Dictator Ferdinand Marcos. Under his term, many agencies in science
and technology were established strengthened, including the Philippine Atmospheric
Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in place of the abolished
Weather Bureau; the National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST); and the
reconstituted National Science and Technology Authority (originally established in 1958 as
the National Science and Development Board and now the Department of Science and
Technology), among others. Marcos saw that the key to nation-building is the continued

17
development of science and technology. The progress in science and technology continued
even after his dictatorial rule and the president after him left their own legacies in the field.

Assessment:

1. Trace the development of science and technology from the pre-colonial times up to
the present. What have you observed?
2. What do you think are the major contributions of science and technology to Philippine
nation-building?

18
 LESSON 4. SCIENCE EDUCATION IN THE PHILIPPINES

The Philippines is trying its best to improve the state of science education in the
country. This lesson will discuss the concept of science education and will identify some
strategies to promote science education in the country. One of the strategies is to establish
science schools that will encourage students to pursue their career in science and technology
and to nurture their gifted potentials in science.

Learning Outcomes

 Discuss the concept of science education; and

 Identify science schools established to promote science education in the Philippines.

THE CONCEPT OF SCIENCE EDUCATION

Science education focuses on teaching, learning, and understanding science.

Teaching science involves developing ways on how effectively teach science. This means
exploring pedagogical theories and models in helping teachers teach scientific concepts and
processes effectively. Learning science, on the other hand, includes both pedagogy and the
most interesting aspect, which is helping students understand and love science.

Understanding science implies developing and applying science-process skills and using
science literacy in understanding the natural world and activities in everyday life.

Getting deeper into the discourse of science education, John Dewey (2001) stressed
the importance of utilizing the natural environment to teach students. Accordingly, nature
must indeed furnish its physical stimuli to provide wealth of meaning through social activities
and thinking. It is not surprising therefore that science education is important. In fact, Marx
(1994) opines that science is going to be one of the most important school subjects in the
future.

Science Education in Basic and Tertiary Education

In basic education, science education helps students learn important concepts and
facts that are related to everyday life (Carale & Campo, 2003; Meador, 2005; Worth &
Grollman, 2003) including important skills such as process skills, critical thinking skills, and
life skills that are needed in coping up with daily life activities (Chaille & Britain, 2002).
Science education also develops positive attitude such as: the love of knowledge, passion for
innovative things, curiosity to study about nature, and creativity (Lind,1997). Science
education will develop a strong foundation for studying science and for considering science-
related careers in the future. This is an investment for the country to develop a scientifically
cultured and literate citizenry.

Science Schools in Philippines

One outstanding program for science education supported by the government is the
establishment of science schools in various parts of the country. There are also several
government programs implemented by the Department of Education and few private schools
for science education.

Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS)

This is a government program for gifted students in the Philippines. It is a service

institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) whose mandate is to offer free
scholarship basis for secondary course with special emphasis on subject pertaining to the

19
sciences, with the end-view of preparing its students for a science career (Republic Act No.
3661). The school maintains a dormitory for all its students.

Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project

The Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project is in pursuance to DepEd

Order No. 73 s. 2008, and DepEd Order No. 51 s. 2010. This project started in June 2007
with 57 identified elementary schools that participated or were identified as science
elementary schools in the country. Since its inception, the number have grown to more than
60 schools nationwide and this is now its sixth year of implementation.

Quezon City Regional Science High School

The school was established on September 17, 1967. Originally, it was named
Quezon City Science High School. It was turned into a regional science high school for the
National Capital Region in 1999. The school was a product of a dream to establish a special
science school for talented students in science and mathematics. The focus of the curriculum
is on science and technology. The school still teaches basic education courses prescribed by
the Department of Education (DepEd) for secondary education.

Manila Science High School

The school was established on October 1, 1963 as the Manila Science High School
(MSHS). It is the first science high school in the Philippines. The organization and curriculum
of the school puts more emphasis on science and mathematics. MSHS aims to produce
scientists with souls. In order to do this, humanities courses and other electives are included
in the curriculum. Students are also encouraged to participate in various extracurricular
activities.

Central Visayan Institute Foundation

It is the home and pioneer of the prominent school-based innovation known as the
Dynamic Learning Program (DLP). The DLP is a synthesis of classical and modern
pedagogical theories adapted to foster the highest level of learning, creativity, and
productivity.

The school takes pride in its Research Center for Theoretical Physics (RCTP)
established in 1992, which organizes small international workshops to foster the informal but
intense exchange of ideas and perspectives on outstanding problems in physics and
mathematics.

Assessment:

1. What other government projects and programs are available for science education in
the Philippines?
2. Are there private schools with outstanding science education programs? Identify and
compare their science education programs with public science schools.

20
 LESSON 5. INDIGENOUS SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE PHILIPPINES

The Philippines is trying its best to improve the state of science education in the country.
This lesson will discuss the concept of science education and will identify some strategies to
promote science education in the country. One of the strategies is to establish science
schools that will encourage students to pursue their career in science and technology and to
nurture their gifted potentials in science.

Learning Outcomes

 Discuss the concept of science education; and

 Identify science schools established to promote science education in the Philippines.

INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM

Indigenous knowledge is embedded in the daily life experiences of young children as

they grow up. They live and grow in a society where the members of the community
prominently practice indigenous knowledge. Their parents and other older folks served as
their first teachers and their methods of teaching are very effective in transmitting cultural
knowledge in their minds.

Indigenous Science

Indigenous science is part of the indigenous knowledge system practiced by different

groups of people and early civilization (Gribbin, 2001; Mkapa, 2004; Sibisi, 2004). It includes
complex arrays of knowledge, expertise, practices, and representation that guide human
societies in their enumerable interactions with the natural milieu: agriculture, medicinec,
naming and explaining natural phenomena, and strategies for coping with changing
environments (Pawilen, 2005). Ogaya (1995) claimed that it is collectively lived in and
experienced by the people of a given culture.

According to Cajete (2004), indigenous science includes everything, from

metaphysics to philosophy and various practical technologies practiced by indigenous
peoples both past and present. Iaccarino (2003) elaborated this idea by explaining that
science is a part of culture, and how science is done largely depends on the cultural practices
of the people.

Indigenous beliefs also develop desirable values that are relevant or consistent to scientific.
Attitudes as identified by Johnston (2000), namely: (1) motivating attitudes; (2) cooperating
attitudes; (3) practical attitudes; and (4) reflective attitudes. These cultural beliefs therefore
can be good foundation for developing positive values toward learning and doing science and
in bringing in a personal level.

Assessment:

1. What is your understanding of indigenous science?

2. What are examples of indigenous science practices?
3. Why do some people believe in indigenous science

21
 CHAPTER 2. SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND SOCIETY AND THE HUMAN
CONDITION

How do we know that we are progressing? What are the indicators of development?
More often than not, development is equated with growth and greater consumption. The more
that a population is able to consume, the wealthier it is. Likewise, the more that a person is
able to buy stuff, the higher he/she is on the development scale.

Learning Outcomes

 Identify different conceptions of human flourishing;

 Determine the development of the scientific method and validity of science; and
 Critic human flourishing vis-à-vis progress of science and technology to be able to
define for themselves the meaning of a good life.

LESSON 1: HUMAN FLOURISHING

In the previous chapters, every discovery, innovation, and success contributes to our
pool of human knowledge. Perhaps, one of the most prevalent themes is human’s perpetual
need to locate himself in the world by finding proofs to trace evolution. The business of
uncovering the secrets of the univers answers the question of our existence and provides us
something to look forward to. Having a particular role, which is uniquely ours, elicits our idea
of self-importance. It is in this regard that human flourishing is deeply intertwined with goal
setting relevant to science and technology. In this case, the latter is relevant as a tool in
achieving the former or echoing Heidegger’s statement, technology is a human activity that
we excel in as a result of achieving science. Suffice to say that the end goals of both science
and technology and human flourishing are related, in that the good is inherently related to the
truth. The folleing are two concepts about science which ventures its claim on truth.

Science as Method and Results

For the most part, science’s reputation stems from the objectivity brought upon by an
arbitrary, rigid methodology whose very character absolves it from any accusation of
prejudice. Such infamy effectively raised science in a pedestal untouchable by other
institutions its sole claim to reason and empiricism garnering supporters who want to defend it
and its ways.

In school, the scientific method is introduced in the earlier part of discussions. Even though
the number of steps varies, it presents a general idea of how to do science:

1. Observe and determine if there are unexplained occurrences unfolding.

2. Determine the problem and identify factors involved.
3. Through past knowledge of similar instance, formulate hypothesis that could
explain the said phenomenon. Ideally, the goal is to reject the null hypothesis and
accept the alternative hypothesis for the study “to count as significant” (can also be
separated into additional steps such as “to generate prediction” or “to infer from past
experiments”)
4. Conduct experiment by setting up dependent and independent variables, and trying
to see how independent ones affect dependent ones.
5. Gather and analyze results throughout and upon culmination of the experiment.
Examine if the data gathered are significant enough to conclude results.
6. Formulate conclusion and provide recommendation in case others would want to
broaden the study.

22
Verification Theory

The earliest criterion that distinguishes philosophy and science is verification theory.
The idea proposes that a discipline is science if it can be confirmed or interpreted in the event
of an alternative hypothesis being accepted. In that regard, said theory gives premium to
empiricism and only takes into account those which are measurable and experiments which
are repeatable. This was espoused by a movement in the early twentieth century called the
Vienna Circle, a group of scholars who believed that only those which can be observed
should be regarded as meaningful and reject those which cannot be directly accessed as
meaningless. Initially, this proved to be attractive due to general consensus from people,
which happened to see for themselves how the experiment occurred, solidifying ist validity
and garnering supporters from esteemed figures. Its shortcomings, however, proved to e a
somewhat too risky several budding theories that lack empirical results might be a somewhat
too risky prematurely, causing slower innovation and punishing ingenuity of newer, novel
thoughts. Celebrated discoveries in physics, for instance, are initially theorized without proper
acknowledgement of their being. Einstein’s theory on the existence of gravitational waves
would, following this thought, be dismissed due to lack of evidence almost a hundred years
ago.

Falsification Theory

Perhaps the current prevalent methodology in science, falsification theory asserts that
as long as an ideology is not proven to be false and can best explain a phenomenon over
alternative theories, we should accept the said ideology. Due to its hospitable character, the
shift to this theory allowed emergence of theories otherwise rejected by verification theory. It
does not promote ultimate adoption of one theory but instead encourages research in order to
determine which among the theories can stand the test of falsification. The strongest one is
that which is able to remain upheld amidst various tests. While being able to make particularly
risky predictions about the world. Karl Popper is the known proponent of this view. He was
notorious for stating that up-and-coming theories of the time, such as Marx’s Theory of Social
History and Sigmund Freud’s Psychoanalysis, are not testable and thus not falsifiable, and
subsequently questioning their status as scientific. Albeit majority of scientists nowadays are
more inclined to be Popperian in their beliefs, this theory, similar to the theory above,
presents certain dangers by interpreting an otherwise independent evidence in light of their
pet theory.

Science as a Social Endeavor

Due to inconclusiveness of the methodologies previously cited, a new school of

thought on the proper demarcation criterion of science emerged. Several philosophers such
as Paul Thagard, Imre Lakatos, Helen Longino, David Bloor, and Richard Rotry, among
others, presented an alternative demarcation that explores the social dimension of science
and effectively, technology. Science cease to belong solely to gown wearing, bespectacled
scientists

at laboratories. The new view perpetuates a dimension which generally benefits the society.
For instance, fa-off places in South America where many of the tribes remain uncontacted, do
not regard western science as their science. Whatever their science is, it can be ascertained
that it is no way inferior to that of globalized people’s science. Thus, it presents an alternative
notion that goes beyond the boundaries of cold, hard facts of science and instead projects it
in a different light, such as a manifestation of shared experience forging solidarity over
communities.
23
Science and Results

For the most part, people who do not understand science are won over when the
discipline is able to produce results. Similar to when Jesus performed miracles and garnered
followers, people are sold over the capacity of science to do stuff they cannot fully
comprehend. In this particular argument, however, science is not the only discipline which is
able to produce results-religion, luck, and human randomness are some of its contemporaries
in the field. For some communities without access to science, they can turn to divination and
superstition and still get the same results. Science is not entirely foolproof, such that it is
correct 100% of the time. Weather reports, for one, illustrate fallibility and limitations of their
scope, as well as their inability to predict disasters. The best that can be done during an
upcoming disaster is to reinforce materials to be more calamity proof and restore the area
upon impact. It can be then concluded that science does not monopolize the claim for definite
results.

Science as Education

Aforementioned discussion notes that there is no such thing as a singular scientific

method, offering instead a variety of procedures that scientists can experiment with to get
results and call them science. Discoveries in physics, specifically in quantum mechanics,
appeared to have debunked the idea of objectivity in reality, subscribing instead to alternative
idea called intersubjectivity. With objectivity gone, it has lost its number one credence.
Nevertheless, there still exist repressing concepts that comes about as a result of unjustified
irreverence of science our preference of science-inclined students over those which are less
adept.

How Much is too Much?

In 2000, world leaders signed the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) that targets
eight concerns, one of which states that they should be able to forge a global partnership foe
development. Inasmuch as the institutes imposing them to do in good faith, the primary goal
to achieve growth for all might prove to be fatal in the log run.

Economists believe that growth is the primary indicator of development, as both go

hand in hand, and has put forth their resources in trying to achieve such. Technology has
been a primary instrument in enabling them to pursue said goal, utilizing resources,
machineries, and labor. What is missing in this equation is that growth presents an illusory
notion of sustainability the world’s resources can only provide so much, it cannot be expected
to stretch out for everybody’s consumption over a long period of time. Moreover, growth is not
infinite there is no preordained ceiling once the ball starts rolling. If the MDG convention’s
intent was to get everyone in the growth ship, that ship will surely sink before leaving the port.

Assessment:

1. Is our reverence of science justified? Explain.

2. What do you think constitutes human flourishing?
3. Were we successful so far in trying to tie down technology with what we conceive as
human flourishing?

24
 LESSON 2. TECHNOLOGY AS A MODE OF REVEALING

The progress of human civilizations throughout history mirrors the development of

science and technology. The human person, as both the bearer and finds meaning in the
world that he/she builds in the person’s pursuit of the good life, he/she may world has to offer.
It is thus necessary to reflect on the things that truly matter. Science and technology must be
taken as part of human life that merits reflective and as the German philosopher Martin
Heidegger says-meditative thinking. Science and Technology, despite its methodical and
technical nature, gives meaning to the life of a person making his/her way in the world.

Learning Outcomes

 Discuss what technology reveals;

 Examine modern technology and its role in human flourishing ; and
 Explain the role of art in a technological world.

In his seminal work, The Question of Technology, Martin Heidegger urges us to

question technology and see beyond people’s common understanding of it.

According to ancient doctrine, the essence of a thing is considered to be what the

things is. We ask the question concerning technology when we ask what it is. Everyone
knows the two statements that answer our question. One says: Technology is a means to an
end. The other says: Technology is a human activity. The two definitions of technology belong
together. For to posit ends and procure and utilize the means to them is a human activity. The
manufacture and utilization of equipment, tools, and machines, the manufactured and used
things themselves, and the needs and ends that they serve, all belong to what technology is.
The whole complex of these contrivances is technology. Technology itself is a contrivance- in
Latin an instrument. The current conception of technology, according to which it is a means
and a human activity, can therefore be called the instrumental and anthropological definition
of technology (Heidegger, 1997, p. 5).

This definition is correct but not necessarily true. The “true” entails so much more
meaning and significance. Heidegger, however, asserted that the true can be pursued
through the correct. In other words, the experience and understanding of what is correct lead
us to what is true. Heidegger urged people to envision technology as a mode of revealing as it
shows so much more about the human person and the world. Technology is a way of bringing
forth, a making something. By considering technology as a mode of revealing, then truth is
brought fourth. For instance, the truth that the Earth is weeping could be revealed by the
information and data taken by modern devices. Whatever truth is uncovered, it will be
something more meaningful and significant than the superficial or practical use of technology.

Heidegger also put forward the ancient Greek concepts of alethia, poiesis, and techne.
Aletheia means unhiddeness or disclosure. Poiesis is defined as bringing forth. For Aristotle,
it means making a producing something for a purpose. It is sometimes used to refer to poetry
and composition. Finally, techne (the root word for technology) means skill, art, or craft.

On the other hand, to think of technology as poetry takes a different mindset, a more
reflective and sensitive way of looking at the world. This perspective is not easy to take
especially in this era when instant knowledge is demanded and split-second updates are the
norm, and when the pursuit of fame and fortune is unceasingly bannered on social media.

25
Technology as Poiesis: Applicable to Modern Technology

Does the idea that technology is Poiesis apply to modern technology? Heidegger
characterizes modern technology as a challenging forth since it is very aggressive in its
activity. Modern technology may also be a mode of revealing but not as the harmonious
bringing forth that is described in his thesis of technology as poiesis.
With modern technology, revealing never comes to an end. The revealing always
happens on our own terms as everything is on demand. Information at our fingertips, food
harvested even out of season, gravity defied to fly off to space-such is the capacity of the
human person. We no longer need to control it. We order nature, and extract, process, make
ready for consumption, and store what we have forced it to reveal. Heidegger described
modern technology as the age of switches, standing reserve, and stockpiling for its own sake.
This observation is manifest in the mechanization and digitization of many aspects of our life-
from agriculture to communications and transportation, among many others.

Enframing: Way of Revealing in Modern Technology

The way of revealing in modern technology is an enframing. This enframing that

challenges forth and set upon nature is a way of looking at reality. In simpler terms, it is as if
nature is put in a box or in a frame so that it can be better understood and controlled
according to people’s desires. Poiesis is concealed in framing as nature is viewed as an
orderable and calculable system of information.
In looking at the world, Heidegger distinguished between calculative thinking and
meditative thinking. In calculative thinking, as mentioned earlier, one orders and puts a
system to nature so it can be understood better and controlled. In meditative thinking, one lets
nature reveal itself to him/her without forcing it. One kind of thinking is not in itself better than
the other. The human person has the faculty for both and would do well to use them in
synergy. However, people also want control and are afraid of unpredictability, so calculative
thinking is more often used. Enframing is done because people ant security, even if the
ordering that happens in enframing is violent and even if the earth is made as a big gasoline
station from which we extract, stockpile, and put in standing-reserve, ready to be used as we
see fit.

Human Person Swallowed By Technology

Though it is true that the individual takes part in the revealing of nature, limits must
still be recognized. Humans do not really call the shots on this Earth. If we allow ourselves to
get swallowed by modern technology, we lose the essence of who we are as beings in this
world. If we are constantly plugged online and no longer we are truly swallowed by
technology. If we cannot let go of the conveniences and profits brought about by prov=cesses
and industries that pollute the environment and cause climate change, then technology has
consumed our humanity.
Nevertheless, as expressed by the poet Holderlin, “But where danger is, grows the
saving power also”. The saving power lies in the essence of technology. Essence is the way
in which things are, as that which endures. Heidegger further asserted that the “essence of
technology is not found in the instrumentality and function of machines constructed, but in the
significance such technology unfolds.

Art as a way out of Enframing

Enframing, as the mode of revealing in modern technology, tends to block poiesis.

The poetry that is found in nature can no longer be easily appreciated when nature is
enframed. If the Earth has just become a gas station for us, then we have become enframed
as well. In modern technology, the way of revealing is no longer poetic; it is challenging.
When instruments are observed linearly, its poetry can no longer be found. For example, the
watermill is a primitive

structure compared to the hydropower plant; or the first iPhone model is just an obsolete
piece of machine. People no longer realize how the watermill is more in tune with the rhythms
of nature or how much genius went into the building of the first iPhone.
Heidegger proposes art as a way out of this enframing. With art, we are better able to
see the poetic in nature in reality. It leads us way from calculative thinking and towards
26
meditative thinking. Through meditative thinking, we will recognize that nature is art par
excellence. Hence, nature is the most poetic.

Assessment:

1. How is technology a mode of revealing?

2. In your daily experience of technology, what else is revealed to you aside from its
function?
3. Why should technology be questioned?

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 LESSON 3: THE GOOD LIFE

Every attempt to know is connected in some way in an attempt also to find the “good”
or the attainment of human flourishing (Serafica et al. 2018). All of us works and lives for the
purpose of having a good life. However, the definitions of a good life vary and particularly
differ from person to person. Good life is characterized by happiness and which originates
from living and doing well.

Learning Outcomes:

 Understand the basic concepts of good life

 Determine the relatedness of technology into having a good life

NICOMACHEAN ETHICS AND MODERN PERCEPTION OF GOOD LIFE

The ancient Greeks called the concept of “living well and doing well” as eudaimonia.
This is derived from the Greek words eu and daimon which means “good” and “spirit”,
respectively. This generally states good life showing happiness and excellence.

The Human Condition Prior and During the Common Era

Our early ancestors’ primal need to survive paved way for the invention of several
developments. Homo erectus have been using fire to cook, through chipping one flint over the
other to produce a spark, all the while without realizing the laws of friction and heat. Tools
from stone and flints marked the era of the Stone Age, during the advent of our very own
Homo sapiens, and humans began to sharpen stones as one would a knife; an example of
this is the simple machine called wedge.
Until, people discovered minerals and began forging metalwork. They realized that
these substances are better compared to the previous material. Some of those found at
excavation sites are reminiscent of early accessories, suggesting that our ancestors have
been deeply engaged in the concept of beauty.
Formation of communities caused humans to expand more in territory and more
people to feed; large, separate communities hailing from the same ancestors and residing in
the same large community paved way for civilizations. Realizing that despite of being self-
sufficient, they are still in constant need of resources.
A new objective has been set by the people – that is to gather as much products as
possible. Wealth has become one of the goals as humans and ultimately as civilizations, for
they perceived that those who possess abundance live comfortably and thus are generally
happier than those who do not have sufficient wealth. When they could not sell products, they
used their skills and got compensated for it – bringing forth a specialized group of artisans.
Humanity became more complex. The primary goal was not merely to survive, but to live the
good life.
Technology has been instrumental in all of these because in searching for the good
life, people were able to come up with creations that would make life easier, more
comfortable, and more enriching. Position-wise, the humans of today are much better off
compared to humans several centuries ago. Some of the notable comparisons from before
and today are the Mortality Rate, Average Lifespan, Literacy Rate and Gross Domestic
Product Different schools of thought that aims for a good and happy life:

Materialism – led by Democritus and Leucippus; the world is made up of and is

controlled by the tiny indivisible units in the world called atomos or seeds; the world
including human beings is made up of matter.
Hedonism – led by Epicurus; The end goal of life is acquiring pleasure; The mantra is
“Eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow we die.”; Similar with the materialists, also
does not buy any notion of afterlife
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 Stoicism – led by Epicurus; The idea that to generate happiness, one must learn to
distance oneself and be apathetic (original term apatheia precisely means to be
indifferent)
Theism – The ultimate basis of happiness is the communion with God.
Humanism – Man is literally the captain of his ship; The freedom of man to carve his
own destiny and to legislate his own laws, free from the shackles of a God that
monitors and controls

ACTIVITY

Identify what is being referred to in each item.

________________ 1. Characterized by happiness and which originates from living and

doing well.
________________ 2. The term the ancient Greeks refer to when talking about the concept
of “living well and doing well”
________________ 3. This era is marked by tools from stone and flints.
________________ 4. The excellence of character that empowers one to do and be good.
_________________ 5. This is the primary necessity of our early ancestors’ that paved way
for the invention of several developments.

Essay

1. Explain your understanding how the basic concept of good life transforms into the
recent concept of good life, with the involvement of science and technology.

29
 LESSON 4. WHEN TECHNOLOGY AND HUMANITY CROSS

The ever-growing society has made people see technology as some form of
necessity. Tracing back its origin, the word “technology” came from the Greek words techne
and logos which mean art and word, respectively. Taking the two words together, technology
means a discourse on arts (Buchanan, 2010). It first appeared in the seventeenth century
where the concept was only used to talk about the arts, specifically applied arts. However,
technology progressed, the concept also started to have a wider range of meaning where art
is no longer the only topic included.

Learning Outcomes

 Know the different technological advancements in society;

 Discuss the development of science and technology in the Philippines;
 Discuss the effects of the interplay between technology and humanity through the
dilemma (s) they face

TELEVISION SETS, MOBILE PHONES, COMPUTERS, AND HUMANITY

A number of technological devices can be easily found inside the home, the most
accessible place to anyone. Having said that, it can also be easily inferred that these
technological devices are some of the most popular and most commonly used types of
devices across all age groups. Almost all households, if not all, own these types of devices.
To be more specific, these “celebrities” in the field of technology are television sets, mobile
phones, and computers. People all over the world use tese technologies every day to
accomplish different purposes.
According to Kantar Media, one of the most trusted television audience measurement
providers, in the Philippines, 92 percent of urban homes and 70 percent of rural homes own
at least one television set. It is for this reason why television remains to be the ultimate
medium for advertisement placements (The Manila Times, 2014). This survey simply shows
that almost all Filipinos use this particular type of device. In fact, Filipinos are believed to have
this big fascination for television. Most of the time, they watch television during their free time
or any time of the day when they have nothing important to do. In addition to this, Kantar
Media also reported that in the Philippines, the current count of households with television set
already reached 15.135 million (Noda, 2012) This number signifies something, that is,
television play a great role in the lives of the people or in this case, the Filipinos.
Television was a product of different experiments by various people. Paul Gottlieb
Nipkow, a German student, in the late 1800s was successful in his attempt to send images
trough wires with the aid of a rotating metal disk.
Second, Filipinos love to use their mobile phones anywhere, anytime. They use it for
different purposes other than for communication. More than half of the Filipino population own
at least one mobile phone regardless of type. In 2010, global research agency Synovate
conducted a survey and declared 67 percent product ownership in the country. In fact, it was
also claimed that mobile phones are considered a must-have among young Filipinos (ABS-
CBN News, 2010).
Lastly, computers and laptops have also become part of many of the Filipino
households. There are some Filipino families who own more than one computer or laptop
while some own at least one computer or laptop. However, the number of computers or
laptops sold per year may not be as high as the number of mobile phones and television sets.
This is because of the relatively higher cost of computers or laptops. While it is true that
almost all Filipino families own at least one television set and a mobile phone, it is not
possible for all Filipino famililes to own at least one computer or laptop. In fact, most of the
profits gained by computer and laptop manufacturers come from offices, business, or schools
where such devices have become part of their necessities.

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Roles Played by These Technological Advancement

Television sets, mobile phones, and computers or laptops all have different functions
and roles played in the lives of the people, although some may be a little similar. These roles
have become so essential that people, more specifically Filipinos, developed a strong
inclination toward technology and its products.
For instance, television is mainly used as a platform for advertisements and
information dissemination. In fact, television remains to be the most used avenue by different
advertising companies not only in the Philippines but also all over the world. Various
advertising companies trust that television is still one of the most used technological devices
up until today.

Ethical Dilemma faced by These Technological Advancement

While it is true these technological devices are useful and beneficial, the fact remains
that there are several dilemmas faced by these “necessities.” First, most parents would argue
that these devices make their children lazy and unhealthy. This is because of the fact that
people who are fixated on these technological advancements start and end their day by using
such devices. They have a great tendency to sit and chill all day long without doing anything
productive in their homes, thus making them unhealthy because they do not just skip meals
sometimes but also lack exercise or any bodily movements. Here, it can be inferred that these
types of people are already overly dependent on these technological devices. For example,
those who love to watch television shows stay in front of the television for more than six hours
a day while those who love to surf the internet or play computer games stay on their laptops,
computers, or mobile phones for more than half a day.

Robotics and Humanity

Another great product of the innovative minds of the people is the robot. Robots are
now widely use. For example, there are the so-called service robots. These particulars robots
do specific tasks but focus mainly in assisting their masters in their everyday tasks. The
International Federation of Robotics (IFR) and United Nation Economic Commission for
Europe

(UNECE) made it their task to formulate a working definition for service robots. A preliminary
extract of the relevant definition is (IFR, 2012):
 A robot is an actuated mechanism programmable in two or more axes with a degree
of autonomy. Moving within its environment, to perform intended tasks. Autonomy on
this context means the ability to perform intended tasks based on current state and
sensing without human intervention.
 A service robot is a robot that performs useful tasks for humans or equipment
excluding industrial automation application.
Note: A robot may be classified according to its intended application as an industrial
robot or a service robot.

Roles Played by Robotics

Robots play different roles not only in the lives of the people but also in the society as
a whole. They are primarily used to ease the workload of mankind. They were invented to
make life more efficient and less stressful. On one hand, they perform complicated activities
which human beings are incapable of doing. On the other hand, they perform the simplest
tasks at home so that their masters can perform the complex ones without stressing
themselves over the simple tasks. There are also robots which are made for pleasure. To be
more specific, these types of robots perform activities to entertain people. They can usually
be found in amusement parks or exhibits. In addition, there are also some robots which were
made to serve as toys. They also perform different activities but they are usually child friendly.
Other examples of robots are those which can be seen in movies. A number of local and
national movies were inspired by robots. This goes to show that people have developed a
distinct fascination over robots.

31
 Just like people living in the society, robots also have their own set of rules and
characteristics that define what a good robot is. These laws were formulated by Isaac Asimov
back in the 1940s, when he has was thinking of the ethical consequences of robots. These
are the following (standard, n.d):

Law One:

A robot may not injure ahuman being or, through inaction, allow a human being to
come to harm

Law Two:

A robot must obey the orders given by human beings except where such orders
would conflict with the first Law.

Law Three:

A robot must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict
with the First or Second Law.

Ethical Dilemma/s Faced by Robotics

Just like any other technological advancements, robotics also faces different
problems and dilemmas. Although the idea is to help people and make their lives a lot easier
than before, it is still not immune to different ethical dilemmas and possible undesirable
outcomes. One of the dilemmas faced by robots is safety. Who should be held accountable if
someone’s safety is compromised by a robot? Who should be blame, the robot, the agent
using the robot, or the maker/inventor of the robot? It is important to know who should be
blamed and who should be held responsible if such thing happens.

Another ethical dilemma faced by robots is th emotional component. This may seem
a little absurd as of the moment, but looking at how fast technology progresses nowadays, it
is not completely impossible for robots to develop emotions (Evans, 2007).

Assessment:
1. How do you reconcile the ‘need’ for technology and the dilemma/s it faces?
2. Should there be an ethics of technology?

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 CHAPTER 3: SPECIFIC ISSUES IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND SOCIETY

The highly modernized, automated, data-driven, and technologically advanced-these

best describe our society nowadays, as evidenced by how information could be transferred or
shared quickly. The different areas of society have been influenced tremendously such as
communications, economics, industry, health, and the environment.

Learning Outcomes

 Define information age;

 Discuss the history of information age; and
 Understand the factors that need to be considered in checking website sources.

LESSON 1: THE INFORMATION AGE

The information Age is defined as a “period starting in the last quarter of the 20 th
century when information became effortlessly accessible through publications and through the
management of information by computers and computer networks” (Vocabulary.com,n.d). The
means of conveying symbolic information (e.g., writing, math, other codes) among humans
has evolved with increasing speed. The Information Age because it was associated with the
development of computers.

According to James R. Messenger who proposed the Theory of Information Age in

1982, “the information Age is a true new age based upon the interconnection of computers via
telecommunications, with these information systems operating on both a real-time and as-
needed basis. Furthermore, the primary factors driving this new age forward are convenience
and user-friendliness which, in turn, will create user dependence.”

History

The table traces the history and emergence of the Information Age (United Sates
American History, n.d.).

Table 1. Timeline of the Information Age

Year Event
3000 BC Sumerian writing system used pictographs to represent words
2900 BC Beginnings of Egyptian hieroglyphic writing
1300 BC Tortoise shell and oracle bone writing were used
500 BC Papyrus roll was used
220 BC Chinese small seal writing was developed
100 AD Book (parchment codex)
105 AD Woodblock printing and paper was invented by the Chinese
1455 Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press using movable metal type
1755 Samuel Johnson’s dictionary standardized English spelling
1802  The library of Congress was established
 Invention of the carbon arc lamp
1824 Research on persistence of vision published
1830s  First viable design for a digital computer
 Augusta Lady Byron writes the world’s first computer program
1837 Invention of the telegraph in Great Britain and the United States
1861 Motion pictures were projected onto a screen
33
1876 Dewey Decimal system was introduced
1877 Eadweard Muybridge demonstrated high-speed photography
1899 First magnetic recordings were released
1902 Motion picture special effects were used
1906 Lee Deforest invented the electronic amplifying tube (triode)
1923 Television camera tube was invented by Zvorkyn
1926 First practical sound movie
1939 Regularly scheduled television broadcasting began in the US
1940s Beginnings of information science as a discipline
1945 Vannevar Bush foresaw the invention of hypertext
1946 ENIAC computer was developed
1948 Birth if field-of-information theory proposed by Claude E. Shannon
1957 Planar transistor was developed by Jean Hoerni
1958 First integrated circuit
1960s Library of Congress developed LC MARC (machine-readable code)
1969 UNIX operating system was developed, which could handle multitasking
1971 Intel introduced the first microprocessor chip
1972 Optical Iaserdisc was developed by Philips and MCA
1974 MCA and Philips agreed on a standard videodisc encoding format
1975 Altair Microcomputer Kit was released: first personal computer for the public
1977 RadioShack introduced the first complete personal computer
1984 Apple Macintosh computer was introduced
Mid 1980s Artificial intelligence was separated from information science
1987 Hypercard was developed by Bill Atkinson recipe box metaphor
1991 Four hundred fifty complete works of literature on one CD-ROM was
released
January 1997 RSA (encryption and network security software) Internet security code
cracked for 48-bit number

As man evolved, information and its dissemination has alo evolved in many ways.
Eventually, we no longer kept them to ourselves; instead, we share them and manage them in
different means. Information got ahead of us. It started to grow at a rate we were unprepared
to handle. Because of the abidance of information, it was difficult to collect and manage them
starting in the 1960s and 1970s. during the 1980s, real angst set in. Richard Wurman called it
“Information Anxiety.” In the 1990s information became the currency in the business world.
Information was the preferred medium of exchange and the information managers serve as
information officers. In the present generation, there is no doubt that information has turned
out to be a commodity, an overdeveloped product, mass-produced, and unspecialized. Soon,
we become overloaded with it.

Computer

Computers are among the most important contributions of advances in the

Information age to society. A computer is an electronic device that stores and processes data
(information). It runs on a program that contains the exact, step-by-step directions to solve a
problem 9UShistory org, 2017).

Assessment:

1. What other technological advancements can possibly be developed I the future?

34
 LESSON 2: BIODIVERSITY AND HEALTHY SOCIETY

The idea where all living things are related to each other is called biodiversity. This
recognition started when naturalists began to classify organisms in the natural world using
taxonomy, a system devised by Swedish scientist Carl Linnaeus. This is the hierarchical
system of classifying and naming organisms that is still used in the biological sciences.
There is a rich biodiversity when there are several different species and genera that
cohabitate. One of the basic laws of the living is that of self-preservation. An organism will
sacrifice all it has to ensure its survival.

Learning Outcomes

 Find out the interrelatedness of society, environment, and health

 Review the ethics and implications of GMOs and potential future impacts

Lesson 1: BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEM

Biodiversity is a vast variety of life forms for in the Earth. It encompasses all kinds of life
forms, from the single – celled organisms to the largest multi – celled organisms.
 The variability among living organisms from all sources, including terrestrial, marine
and aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are part; this
includes diversity within species, between species, and of ecosystems.
 Understanding biodiversity within the concept of ecosystem needs a thorough study
on the relationship of the biotic, the living organisms and the abiotic, non-living
organisms.
For example, a large number of golden snails in a certain area of a rice field can help predict
a low production of number of different species in a certain area can be a predictor of
sustainable life in that area.

Threats to Biodiversity

Major threats to biodiversity that were identified by the United Nations’ Environment
Programme (WHO, n.d.). These are the following:
1. Habitat loss and destruction
2. Alterations in ecosystem composition
3. Over-exploitation
4. Pollution and contamination
5. Global climate change

Nutritional Impact of Biodiversity

Biodiversity is a vital element of a human being’s nutrition because of its influence to
food production (According to World Health Organization). This is a major factor that
contributes to sustainable food production for human beings.

Health, Biology and Biodiversity

Living organisms greatly depend in the environment for living and reproduction. Basic
human needs such as air, water, food and habitat are often provided by the environment.
However, despite being the environment which sustains life

Biotechnology

The Biodiversity International has released a module titled “Law and policy of relevance
to the management of plant genetic resources” (Bragdon et al. 2005 as cited by McNamara et

35
al. 2018) that aims to help professionals in managing, conserving, and using plant genetic
resources for food and agriculture. The module provides the following definitions:
1. Biotechnology uses biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof, to
make or modify products or processes for a specific use.
2. Genetic engineering is a technique that allows genes and DNA to be transferred from
one source to another. It leads to the production of living modified organisms (LMOs)
or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
3. Modern biotechnology gives scientists molecular tools for obtaining a better
understanding of the structure and function of genes in living organisms.

36
 LESSON 3. GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS: SCIENCE, HEALTH AND
POLITICS

Learning Outcomes
 Identify issues on genetically modified organism (GMOs);
 Discuss different implications and impact of GMOs; and
 Create a research paper on the impact of GMOs in the Philippine context

Genetically Modified Organisms

The characteristics of an organism and its successors can be modified today by
modern technology, giving rise to what are called genetically modified organisms or GMOs
(Mayr, 2001 as cited by McNamara et al. 2018).

Figure 1. Inserting recombinant DNA into a host cell

A GMO is a plant, animal, microorganism, or other organism whose genetic makeup

has been modified using recombinant DNA methods (also called gene splicing), gene
modification, or transgenic technology. It is the result of a laboratory process where genes
from the DNA of one species are extracted and artificially inserted into the genes of an
unrelated plant or animal, also called genetic engineering (GE) or genetic modification (GM).
Because this process involves the transfer of genes, GMOs are also known as “transgenic”
organisms.

Genetic Modification

37
Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety

The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international agreement which aims to

ensure the safe handling, transport, and use of living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting
from modern biotechnology that may have adverse effects on biological diversity, taking also
into account risks to human health. It takes a precautionary approach by making sure that
countries are provided with the data necessary to make informed decisions before agreeing to
the import of such organisms into their territory.

Assessment:

Answer the following:

1. How important is the environment to the society needs?

2. As a student, what role will you play in maintaining the biodiversity’s richness?
3. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of GMO’s.

38
 Lesson 4: THE NANO WORLD

The Nano world provides both knowledge and instrument to control nature. The use
of nano scale is one important interdisciplinary area generated by advancement in science
and technology. Through manipulation of nanomaterials, scientists and engineers were able
to build materials possessing innovative properties.

Learning Outcomes

 Assess the impacts of nanotechnology to the society

 Understand the benefits, issues and concerns of nanotechnology
 Learn to equate the uses and issues of nanotechnology in its effect to the society

Lesson 1: Why Nano?

The term “nano” refers to a unit meaning one billionth or ten raised to negative nine
(10⁻⁹). Hence, “nano” expresses a very tiny amount or size. Nanoscience deals with materials
that are very small using a specialized microscopes and other nanodevices.
Figure 1. Nanoscale

Nanotechnology refers to the science, engineering, and technology conducted at the

nanoscale, which is about 1 to 100 nanometers (NNI 2017, as cited by Serafica et al. 2018).
This is the manipulation of matter on an atomic or subatomic scale. Nanoscience and
nanotechnology employs the study and application of exceptionally small things in other areas
of science including materials science, engineering, physics, biology, and chemistry (NNI
2017 as cited by Serafica et al. 2018).

Devices used in viewing nanomaterials

1. Electron microscope
2. Atomic force microscope (AFM)
3. Scanning tunnelling microscope

Nanomanufacturing

It refers to scaled-up, reliable, and cost-effective manufacturing of nanoscale

materials, structures, devices, and systems. This includes two fundamental approaches
bottom-up or top-down (NNI, 2017 as cited by Serafica et al. 2018).

39
 1. Bottom-up fabrication-manufactures products by building them up from atomic- and
molecular scale components
2. Top-down fabrication – trims down large pieces of materials into nanoscale
New approaches based on the two fundamental approaches mentioned above:
Dip pen lithograpy, self-assembly, chemical vapour deposition, nanoimprint
lithography, molecular beam epitaxy, roll-to-roll processing and atomic layer epitaxy.

Distinct Features of Nanoscale

1. Scale at which much biology occurs; Example: DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) serves
as the genetic material of the cell and is only about 2 nm (nanometers) in diameter.
2. Scale at which quantum effects dominate properties of materials. Example: Gold
nanoparticle (AuNP), appears yellow in bulk form but red or purple in nanoscale.
3. Nanoscale materials have far larger surface areas than similar masses of larger-scale
materials.
Possible Applications of Nanotechnology in the Philippines (Dayrit, 2005 as cited by
Serafica et al. 2018).
1. ICT and semiconductors
2. Health and medicine
3. Energy
4. Food and agriculture
5. Environment.
Benefits and Concerns of Using Nanotechnology
1. Nanotechnology is not a single technology; it may become pervasive
2. Nanotechnology seeks to develop new materials with specific properties
3. Nanotechnology may introduce new efficiencies and paradigms which may make
some natural resources and current practices uncompetitive or obsolete.
4. It may be complicated to detect its presence unless one has the specialist tools of
nanotechnology.

Benefits and concerns of the application of Nanotechnology in Different Areas

(University of Washington, n.d. as cited by Serafica et al. 2018)
In the environment, nanotechnology helps to improved detection and removal of
contaminants. This could also help in the development of benign industrial processes and
materials. However, concerns also arise such that high reactivity and toxicity, pervasive
distribution the environment and no nano-specific EPA regulation.
Benefits of nanotechnology to health is the improvements in medicine. But concerns
such as its ability to cross cell membranes and translocate in the body and no FDA approval
needed for cosmetics or supplements.
Nanotechnology helps the economy to produce better products and new jobs, but
concerns include redistribution of wealth, potential cost of clean-ups and healthcare and
accessibility to all income levels.

Assessment:

1. Cite at least 3 nanotechnology products and give its benefits/uses and

disadvantages. Based from the mentioned disadvantages, suggests methods or
procedures to prevent or minimize its effects to the society.

40
 Lesson 5: GENE THERAPHY (STEM CELLS)

Human gene therapy was actually first realized in 1971 when the first recombinant
DNA experiments were planned. It can be simply viewed as insertion foreign DNA into a
patient’s tissue that hope to successfully eradicate the targeted disease. Gene therapy is the
most promising yet possibly unfavourable medical field being studied.

Learning Outcomes

 Describe gene therapy and its various forms

 Evaluate its issues and concerns in relation to human health
 Know the advances of gene therapy

Lesson Proper
According to a Filipino-American doctor-lawyer Samuel Bernal, an expert in the fields
of regenerative medicine and regulatory law, careful is needed when using a stem-cell
therapy, for this is not a cure-all. Its goal is not a longevity-anti-aging program. This is actually
trying to allow the body to heal itself. “Stem cells are just a small part of the molecular
approach to medicine.”

The Basic Process

Several approaches of gene therapy (Fliesler, 2017 as cited by McNamara et al. 2018)
- Replacement of mutated gene that causes disease with a healthy copy of the gene
- Inactivation of a mutated gene that is functioning improperly
- Introducing a new gene into the body to help fight a disease

Figure1. Gene therapy using autologous cells

(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK7569/figure/A2897/?report=objectonly)

Generally, a gene cannot be directly inserted into a human gene or cell. A gene is
inserted into another gene using a carrier or vector.

Two Types of Gene Therapy

Somatic Gene Therapy – involves the manipulation of genes in cells that will be
helpful to the patient but not inherited to the next generation (Nimsergern, 1988 as cited by
Serafica et al. 2018).

Germ-line Gene Therapy – involves the gentic modification of germ cells or the
origin cells that will pass the change on to the next generation (Your Genome, 2017 as cited
by Serafica et al. 2018).

41
Stem Cell Gene Therapy
Stem cells are mother cells that have the potential to become any type of cell in the
body. One of the main characteristics of stem cells is their ability to self-renew or multiply
while maintaining the potential to develop into other types of cells. Stem cells can become
cells of the blood, heart, bones, skin, muscles, and brain, among others.
Different sources of stem cells:
Embryonic stem cells – derived from a four- or five-day-old human embryo that is in
the blastocyst phase of development.
Somatic stem cells – exist throughout the body after embryonic development and are
found inside of different types of tissue.

The Bioethics of Gene Therapy (Genetics Home Reference, 2017 as cited by Serafica et al.
2018)
1. How can “good” and “bad” uses of gene therapy be distinguished?
2. Who decides which traits are normal and which constitute a disability or disorder?
3. Will the high costs of gene therapy make it available only to the wealthy?
4. Could the widespread use of gene therapy make society less accepting of people
who are different?
5. Should people be allowed to use gene therapy to enhance basic human traits such as
height, intelligence or athletic disability?

Another concern is the germline therapy, this is a genetic modification of germ cells
that will pass the change on to the next generation. Questions has been raised on the effects
of gene alteration to the unborn child and the next generation, since alteration is being
inherited.

Assessment:

Answer the following:

1. Explain the concepts of gene therapy and differentiate its types.

2. Gene therapy has been widely used in the medical field, based on your
assessment, could this be used for aesthetics purposes?
3. Research on the medical advances of gene therapy as this one of the fastest
developing fields of medicine.

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 Lesson 6: CLIMATE CHANGE

Climate change has been projected to widely cause impact across ecosystems,
societies and economies, leads to increase pressures in all forms of livelihoods and food
security, not to exempt the fisheries and agriculture sector (Cochrane et al. 2009). Climate
change refers to the statistically significant changes in climate for continuous period of time
(Serafica et al. 2018). Climate is different to weather in the sense that this is constantly
changing. Climate refers to the long-term weather patterns prevailing over a given area
(McNamara et al. 2018).

Learning Outcomes

 Identify the causes and evaluate the impacts of climate change

 Know about the alternative energy sources
 Relate other topics of this course (soc sci 121: sts) concepts to the issue of climate
change

CAUSES OF CLIMATE CHANGE

This could either be natural or man-made or both.

Natural Causes
Volcanic Eruptions

During volcanic eruptions, various natural aerosols like carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide,
salt crystals, volcanic ashes or dust and even microorganisms like bacteria and viruses has
been emitted. This could cause a cooling effect to the lithosphere because its emitted aerosol
can block a certain percentage of solar radiation.

Orbital Changes

The Earth’s orbit can also cause climate change. This was based on the Milankovitch
theory stating “that as the Earth travels through space around the sun, cyclical variations in
three elements (eccentricity, obliquity, and precession) of Earth-Sun geometry combine to
produce variations in the amount of solar energy that reaches the Earth (Academic Emporia,
2017 as cited by Serafica et al. 2018). Sunlight falling upon the Earth warms the planet. The
amount of sunlight, however, is not constant since the orientation of the Earth to the sun
changes.

Carbon Dioxide Theory

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is added when power and heat are produced by burning coal,
oil, and other fossil fuels. This is transparent to sunshine but visible to infrared (heat) radiation
leaving the ground. CO2 absorbs part of the infrared radiation in the air and returns it to the
ground keeping the air near the surface warmer than it would be, if the carbon dioxide did not
act like a blanket. Doubling the CO2 raises the temperature to 2⁰C to 3⁰C.

Man-made Activities

The burning of fossil fuels is the largest known contributor to climate change coming
from human activities. This releases carbon dioxide gas to the atmosphere. Greenhouse
gases and aerosols affect climate by altering incoming solar radiation and outgoing infrared
(thermal) radiation that are part of Earth’s energy balance. Modifying the atmospheric
abundance or properties of these gases and particles can lead to a warming or cooling of the
climate system.

Human activities result in emissions of four principal greenhouse gases: carbon

dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O) and the halocarbons (a group of gases
containing fluorine, chlorine, and bromine). These gases accumulate in the atmosphere,
causing concentrations to increase with time (www.c02now.org as cited by Serafica et al.
2018).

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Effects of Climate Change to Society

With the average global temperature which is predicted to rise by 2⁰C to 3⁰C within
the next fifty years, glaciers will continue to melt faster. Melting glaciers will increase flood
risks during the wet season and strongly reduce dry-season water supplies. Other effects
include decline crop yields due to drought, major effects on marine ecosystems, with possible
adverse consequences on fish stocks. The ecosystem will be particularly vulnerable to
climate change.

Alternative Energy Sources (https://ecavo.com/alternative-energy-sources/)

1. Solar Power
2. Nuclear Power
3. Hydroelectric Energy
4. Wave Energy
5. Biofuels
6. Natural Gas
7. Geothermal Power
8. Wind Energy

9. Biomass Energy
10. Tidal Energy
11. Hydrogen Gas

Future Actions

Climate change has implications on the environment and on the economy – burning
of fossil fuels is one of the major sources of electricity but also leads to higher amounts of
CO2. The aim for industrialization and at the same time protecting the environment requires a
well-balanced plan.
Science has given humanity a tool for modernization. It allows for the emergence of
technology that spreads and applies knowledge for the attainment of the good life.

Assessment:

Answer the following briefly:

1. Explain based on your own understanding the causes of climate change.

2. Cite impacts of climate change either directly or indirectly affecting you.
3. Choose one of the alternative energy sources mentioned and identify its
process of utilization and/or advantages and disadvantages.
4. Choose one topic from this course (Soc Sci 121: STS), then briefly relate it to
the issues of climate change.

References

1. Bisht, R. (1982). “Excavations at Banawali: 1974-77.” In Possehl, Gregory L. (Ed.).

Harappan Civilization: A Contemporary Perspective. New Delhi: Oxford and IBH
Publishing Co.
2. Bose, M. (1998). Late Classical India. A Mukherjee & Co.
3. Clifford, P. (2008). Archimedes to Hawking: Laws of Science and Great Minds Behind
Them. New York: Oxford University Press.
4. Craig, B. & Walter, D. (2000). “Clinical Pharmacology in the Middle Ages: Principles
that Presage the 21st century.” Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 67 (5): 447-
450.
5. Davies, E. (1995). Inventions. London: Dorling Kindersley.
6. Derewenda, Z. (2007). : On Wine, Chirality and Crystallography.” Acta
Crystallographica Section. Section A, Foundations of Crystallography. 64(0) 246-258.
7. Durant, W. (1980). The Age of Faith. In the Strory of Civilization. New York: Simon
and Schuster.

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