Science, Technology, and Society —
Complete Reviewer Notes
I. Objectives
• Apply the scientific method to research.
• Explain the concepts of human flourishing and their importance for the 'common good'.
• Enumerate the different principles of human flourishing and discuss how it affects human
life.
II. The Scientific Method
The scientific method is a systematic process used to acquire knowledge through
observation, experimentation, and analysis.
A. Key Concepts
• Scientific Inquiry — the process of asking questions and investigating phenomena.
• Hypothesis — a tentative explanation or answer to a scientific question.
B. Steps in the Scientific Method
1. Identify the problem
2. Formulate a hypothesis related to the problem
3. Test the hypothesis by experimentation
4. Record and analyze data
5. Make conclusions and generalizations
6. Publish scientific work
III. Human Flourishing
Human flourishing, rooted in Aristotelian philosophy as 'eudaimonia,' describes the highest
state of human happiness and well-being. It involves developing virtues, realizing potential,
and living a fulfilling life.
A. Eudaimonia
Eudaimonia refers to flourishing or happiness, which is desired for its own sake with all
other things being desired on its account. It combines the Greek words for 'good' and
'spirit'.
According to Aristotle, human flourishing is the highest good of human endeavors and the
ultimate aim of all actions.
“There is an end of all of the actions that we perform which we desire for itself.” – Aristotle
IV. Science and Technology's Role in Human Flourishing
A. Science as Foundation
Science provides an objective methodology for understanding the natural world. It
produces knowledge that fuels technology and innovation. It expands human lifespan,
improves quality of life, and enhances understanding of health, psychology, and the
environment.
B. Technology's Role
Technology transforms scientific knowledge into practical applications, improving health,
communication, and economic prosperity.
• Healthcare Innovation — Medical devices, telemedicine, and pharmaceuticals.
• Connectivity — Internet and digital platforms bridge social and global gaps.
• Automation — Enhances productivity but raises ethical considerations.
V. Ethical Considerations
Ethical principles guide the responsible development and use of technology.
1. Responsible Use — Avoid misuse or harm from emerging technologies.
2. Equity — Ensuring all populations benefit from advancements.
3. Privacy — Protecting individual data in a connected age.
4. Environmental Sustainability — Balancing innovation with ecological impact.
VI. Scientific Measurements of Flourishing
Modern studies measure flourishing not only through physical health but also through
virtues such as compassion and forgiveness, relationships, meaning, and agency. These
factors guide the development of technologies that support holistic well-being.
VII. Technology and Global Goals
Technology plays a vital role in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as
quality education, poverty reduction, and environmental sustainability.
• Reduced inequality via educational technology.
• Renewable energy technologies support climate goals.
VIII. Risk and Challenges
• Digital Divide — Unequal access to technology can widen social gaps.
• Ethical Dilemmas — AI bias and unintended consequences.
• Mental Health Impact — Overuse of digital technology affecting well-being.
IX. Future Directions
Stage 1: Expanded ethical frameworks for technology use.
Stage 2: Inclusive technology design for diverse populations.
Stage 3: Integrated scientific approaches to measure and enhance flourishing.
Stage 4: Widespread adoption of sustainable and human-centered innovations.
X. Principles of Human Flourishing
1. Dignity of Human Person
Innate personal values or rights which demand respect for all people, regardless of race,
social class, and wealth.
2. Common Good
Sacrificing self-interest to provide for the basic human needs of everyone makes the whole
community flourish.
3. Preferential Option for the Poor
When decisions are made by first considering the poor.
4. Subsidiarity
When all those affected by a decision are involved in making it.
5. Universal Purpose of Goods
The Earth's resources serve every person's needs, regardless of ownership.
6. Stewardship of Creation
Duty to care for the Earth as a gift is a personal responsibility for the common good.
7. Promotion of Peace
Everyone has the duty to respect and collaborate in relationships at personal, national, and
global levels.
8. Participation
Everyone has the right and the duty to take part in society (economic, political, cultural,
religious).
9. Global Solidarity
Recognition that we are all interconnected, part of one human family.
XI. Technology as a Way of Revealing (Heidegger)
Philosopher Martin Heidegger argues that technology is not just a neutral tool but a way of
revealing the world. His concept of 'enframing' shows how technology can reduce
everything to a resource, shaping how we understand and interact with reality.
This raises concerns about authenticity, human existence, and the richness of the human
experience being overshadowed by technological control.
XII. Philosophical Perspectives
• Materialism — matter is the fundamental substance in nature.
• Hedonism — pleasure as the primary motivation of human behavior.
• Stoicism — self-control and rationality, emotional detachment.
• Theism — belief in one or more Gods.
• Humanism — emphasizes free will, self-efficacy, and self-actualization.