Science, Technology, and Society
Introduction to STS
Science: From the Latin word "Scientia," meaning Knowledge. It is a systematic method of
acquiring knowledge using the scientific method. The scientific method consists of:
Observation
Experimentation
Theory formulation
Science aims to solve problems, understand natural phenomena, and discover facts and
relationships.
Technology: From the Greek word "Techne," meaning Art, Skill, or Craft. It is the application of
scientific knowledge for practical purposes. It is used to create tools, machines, and systems,
improve human life, and solve real-world problems.
Society: From the Latin word "Societas," meaning "a friendly association with others." It is a
group of individuals sharing common interests, culture and institutions, and decision-making
systems. It interacts with Science and Technology to improve life.
Interaction of Science, Technology, and Society
Science explores knowledge and discovers principles.
Technology applies scientific knowledge to create useful products.
Society uses technology and supports scientific advancements.
Science drives technology. Discoveries in fields like Physics, Chemistry, and Biology lead to
new innovations.
Technology supports science. New tools help scientists conduct better research.
Engineers use science to develop machines, infrastructure, and devices.
Historical Antecedents in the World of Science and
Technology
Ancient Civilizations and Their Contributions
Mesopotamian Civilization:
Developed Cuneiform writing.
Built Ziggurats (step temples).
Invented the wheel for transportation, the plow for agriculture, and irrigation systems.
Egyptian Civilization:
Developed Hieroglyphic writing.
Constructed pyramids.
Invented papyrus (early paper).
Practiced advanced medicine and surgery.
Greek Civilization:
Major contributions: Watermill, alarm clock, Archimedes' Screw (for raising water).
Key figures:
Thales of Miletus: First Greek mathematician, focused on astronomy.
Archimedes: Studied liquid properties.
Eratosthenes: Calculated the Earth's size.
Chinese Civilization:
Developed gunpowder, fireworks, rockets, guns.
Invented the seismograph for earthquake detection.
Invented the first compass.
Made astronomical observations.
Indian Civilization:
Contributions: Spinning wheel, farming techniques.
Medieval and Renaissance Period
Islamic Golden Age:
Scholars:
Jabir Ibn Hayyan: Father of early chemistry.
Al-Khwarizmi: Father of algebra.
Al-Zahrawi: Father of surgery.
Al-Razi: Father of pediatrics.
Ibn Sina: Medical scholar.
Scientific Revolution (1400-1700):
Nicolaus Copernicus (1532): Proposed the Heliocentric model (Sun at the center).
Johannes Kepler: Discovered elliptical orbits.
Galileo Galilei (1610): Discovered Jupiter's moons.
Isaac Newton: Developed Laws of Motion and Gravity.
Science and Technology in the Philippines
Pre-Colonial Period
Early Filipinos practiced herbal medicine.
Developed weaving and pottery.
Built rice terraces using engineering skills.
Spanish Period
Education in the 19th Century:
1893: Spanish Government reformed the educational system.
Established elementary, secondary, collegiate, and teacher training schools.
University of Santo Tomas (UST) (1611): Founded by Fray Miguel de Benavidez.
Notable Graduates: Leon Maria Guerrero – "Father of Philippine Pharmacy."
Schools for Higher Education:
Colegio de San Ildefonso (1595, Cebu)
Colegio de San Ignacio (1595, Manila)
Colegio de San Jose (1601, Manila)
Ateneo de Manila (1859, Manila)
Colegio de San Juan de Letran (1640, Manila)
Opening of the Suez Canal:
Allowed Filipinos to study abroad (e.g., Jose Rizal, Marcelo del Pilar, Antonio Luna).
American Period
Introduced secular public school system.
1901: Philippine Commission created Department of Public Instruction (Act No. 74).
1901: Established Philippine Normal University (PNU).
1905: Established Philippine Medical School.
University of the Philippines (UP): Founded June 18, 1908.
Pensionado Program (1903): Sent 125 Filipino scholars to the U.S., trained as teachers,
engineers, and physicians.
Private schools: Helped prevent complete Americanization and ensured the preservation of
Filipino heritage and ideals.
Post-Colonial Period
Science and technology development continued.
Innovations like: Multi-voltage solar power generator, solar power cart.
Establishment of DOST to support science education and research.