Reviewer: Introduction to Science, Technology, and Society (STS)
1. Meaning and Purpose of STS
- Science, Technology, and Society (STS) explores how science and technology shape culture, politics,
and everyday life.
- Focuses on the interaction between humans and knowledge, and its impact on Philippine society and
history.
- Aims to understand how policies, inventions, and scientific progress influence nation-building.
2. Science
- Origin: From Latin scientia = knowledge.
- Definition: Systematic knowledge about the natural world through observation, experiments, and
reasoning.
- Purpose: Understand natural phenomena; may or may not have practical use.
Branches of Science:
1. Formal – Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science
2. Natural – Physics, Chemistry, Earth Science, Biology
3. Social – Anthropology, Economics, Geography, Linguistics
4. Applied – Engineering, Health Science, Agriculture, Architecture
Key Points:
- Scientific Law = describes what happens (consistent natural patterns).
- Scientific Theory = explains why/how it happens (based on evidence).
3. Technology
- Origin: Greek techne = art/skill, logos = word/study.
- Definition: Practical application of knowledge to solve problems and make tools.
Forms of Technology:
- Product – artifacts (tools, machines, medicine).
- Knowledge/Method – techniques, skills, systems used to create and repair.
Science & Technology Relationship:
- Science = pursuit of knowledge.
- Technology = application of scientific knowledge.
- Example: Physics → electricity → gadgets.
4. Society
- A group of individuals with persistent social interaction, sharing territory, politics, and culture.
- Society is shaped by science and technology and vice versa.
5. Interaction of Science, Technology, and Society
- Positive Impacts: Easier life, cultural growth, better health, education, problem-solving.
- Negative Impacts: Ethical issues, misuse, environmental harm.
- Key Idea: Impact is not always beneficial or harmful—depends on use.
6. Key Discussions (Neil deGrasse Tyson Interview Highlights)
- “Better to know than not to know” → Knowledge empowers decision-making.
- Why something instead of nothing? → Humans are part of the universe.
- Man/Animal Hybrids → Raises ethical debates.
- Evolution vs. Creationism → Evidence-based vs. faith-based views.
- Science as knowledge & method → Both a body of facts and a way of inquiry.
- Lab-grown meat → Sustainable alternative.
- Multiverse → Possibility of many universes.
- Mars Methane ("Mars farts") → Potential sign of microbial life.
- Science Literacy → Protects society from misinformation.
7. Debate Topics
- “It is always better to know than not to know.”
- “Human genetic modification, including man/animal hybrids, should be pursued for scientific
advancement.”
- “Should lab-grown meat replace traditional animal farming?”
8. Lesson Objectives (What you should learn)
- Define science, technology, and society.
- Understand their interrelationship.
- Appreciate how they transform and shape society.