Science,

Technology,
and Society
INTELLECTUAL REVOLUTONS THAT SOME INTELLECTUAL AND THEIR
DEFINED SOCIETY REVOLUTIONARY IDEAS
Science as an idea.
Science as an intellectual activity.
NICOLAUS COPERNICUS
Science as a body of knowledge.
Science as a personal and social his ideas were an example of what is
activity. presently called as thought
experiment (performed in imagination)
sustain interest in ASTRONOMY
SCIENTIFIC REVOLUTION influenced by a book entitled Epitome
published in 1496 by a German author,
16th – 18th century
Johannes Mueller
Europe
shift in the field of astronomy from a
was the period of enlightenment when
Geocentric understanding of the
the developments in the fields of
universe, centered around Earth, to
mathematics, physics, astronomy,
a Heliocentric understanding, centered
biology and chemistry transformed the
around the Sun.
views of society about nature
Copernicus’s idea and model of the
universe was essentially complete
in 1510.
He circulated a summary of his ideas to
his few close friends in a manuscripts
called Commentariolus (Little
Commentary)
The publication of his book De
revolutionibus orbium
coelestium (On the Revolutions of
the Heavenly Spheres) in 1543 cited as
the start of the scientific revolution

CHARLES DARWIN
famous for his Theory of Evolution
genius and came from a line of
intellectually gifted and wealthy family
published his book The Origin of
Species in 1589
The Descent of Man, was so
impressive yet controversial

SIGMUND FREUD
famous figure in the field of Psychology
described as a towering literary figure
and a very talented communicator who
did share to raise the consciousness of
the civilized world in psychological religious rituals and cultural
matters celebrations
made a contribution in the scientific Mayans also developed the technology
world through the development of an for growing different crops and building
important observational method to elaborate cities using ordinary
gather reliable data to study human’s machineries and tools
inner life called as METHOD OF built hydraulics system with
PSYCHOANALYSIS sophisticated waterways to supply
water to different communities
CRADLES OF EARLY SCIENCE
used various tools and adapt
themselves to innovations especially in
the field of arts
DEVELOPMENT OF SCIENCE IN
built looms for weaving cloth and
MESOAMERICA
devised a rainbow of glittery paints
made from a mineral called mica
believed to be one of the first people to
MESOAMERICA
produce rubber products 3,000 years
includes the entire area of Central before Goodyear received its patent
America from Southern Mexico up to in 1844
the border of South America Mayans are considered one of the most
rich in culture and knowledge prior to scientifically advanced societies in
the arrival of its European colonizers Mesoamerica. They are also famous as
one of the world's first civilizations to
MAYA CIVILIZATION
use a writing system known as the
one of the famous civilizations that Mayan hieroglyphics. They were also
lasted for approximately 2,000 years skilled in mathematics and created a
people are known for their works in number system based on the numeral
astronomy 20. Moreover, they independently
incorporated their advanced developed the concept of zero and
understanding of astronomy into their positional value, even before the
temples and other religious structures Romans did.
allows them to use their temples for
INCA CIVILIZATION
astronomical observation. For example,
the pyramid at Chichén Itzá in Mexico famous in Mesoamerica
is situated at the location of the Sun Incas made advanced scientific ideas
during the spring and fall equinoxes considering their limitations as an old
Mayan knowledge and understanding civilization
about celestial bodies was advanced
THE FOLLOWING WERE SCIENTIFIC
for their time, as evidenced by their
IDEAS AND TOOLS THAT THEY
knowledge of predicting eclipse and
DEVELOPED TO HELP THEM IN
using astrological cycles in planting and
EVERYDAY LIFE:
harvesting
Mayans are also known for measuring roads paved with stones;
time using two complicated calendar stone buildings that surmounted
systems. These calendars were very earthquakes and other disasters:
useful for their life especially in planning irrigation system and technique for
their activities and in observing their storing water for their crops to grow in
all types of land;
 calendar with 12 months to mark their DEVELOPMENT OF SCIENCE IN ASIA
religious festivals and prepare them for
planting season;
the first suspension bridge; ASIA
quipu, a system of knotted ropes to
biggest continent in the world
keep records that only experts can
home of many ancient civilizations
interpret; and
host to many cultural, economic,
Inca textiles since cloth was one of the
scientific, and political activities of all
specially prized artistic achievements.
ages

AZTEC CIVILIZATION In the field of science, technology, and

mathematics, great civilizations have stood
made substantial contributions to out: India, China, and the Middle East
science and technology and to the civilizations. These civilizations were
society as a whole incomparable in terms of their contributions to
the development of knowledge during their
time.
SOME OF THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS ARE
THE FOLLOWING:
INDIA
Mandatory education. The Aztec puts
value on education; that is why their huge peninsula surrounded by vast
children are mandated to get education bodies of water and fortified by huge
regardless mountains in its northern boarders
of their social class, gender, or age. It is famous in medicine
an early form of universal or inclusive notable in the field of astronomy
education. developed theories on the configuration
Chocolates. The Aztec in Mexico of the universe, the spherical self-
developed chocolate during their time. supporting Earth, and the year of 360
In the Mayan culture, they used it as days with 12 equal parts of 30 days
currency. The Aztec valued the cacao each
beans highly and made it as part of their is also known for their mathematics
tribute to their gods.
Antispasmodic medication. They INDIANS
used a type of antispasmodic
medication that could prevent muscle creatively developed various ideas and
spasms and relax muscles, which could technologies useful in their everyday
help during surgery. lives
Chinampa. It is a form of Aztec known for manufacturing iron and in
technology for agricultural metallurgical works
farming in which the land was divided Their iron steel is considered to be the
into rectangular areas and surrounded best and held with high regard in the
by canals. whole of Roman Empire.
Aztec calendar. This enabled them to
plan their activities, rituals, and planting
season.
Invention of the canoe. A light narrow
boat used for traveling in water systems
 AYURVEDA CLIFFORD (2008) AND BOSE (1998)
system of traditional medicine that pointed out that Indian astronomer and
originated in ancient India before 2500 mathematician Aryabhata (476-550), in
BC his Aryabhatiya, introduced a number
practiced as a form of alternative of trigonometric functions, tables, and
medicine techniques, as well as algorithms of
algebra
They discovered some medicinal properties of
plants that led them to develop medicines to BRAHMAGUPTA
cure various illnesses
628 AD
also suggested that gravity was a force
SUSRUTA SAMHITA of attraction, and lucidly explained the
use of zero as both a placeholder and a
describes different surgical and other decimal digit, along with the Hindu-
medical procedures famous in Ancient Arabic numeral system now used
India universally throughout the world

SAMA (2008) MADHAVA OF SANGAMAGRAMA

noted that their interest in astronomy considered as the founder of
was also evident in the first 12 chapters mathematical analysis (Joseph, 1991).
of the Siddhanta Shiromani, written in
the 12th century
ancient text covered topics such as: CHINA
mean longitudes of the planets; true one of the ancient civilizations with
longitudes of the planets; the three substantial contributions in many areas
problems of diurnal rotation; syzygies; of life like medicine, astronomy,
lunar eclipses; solar eclipses; latitudes science, mathematics, arts, philosophy,
of the planets; risings and settings; the and music, among others
moon's crescent; conjunctions of the
planets with each other; conjunctions of
CHINESE CIVILIZATIONS
the planets with the fixed stars; and the
paths of the Sun and Moon. greatly influenced many of its neighbor
countries like Korea, Japan,
BISHT (1982) Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand,
Cambodia, Myanmar, and other
noted that the earliest traces of countries that belong to the old Silk
mathematical knowledge in the Indian Road.
subcontinent appeared in the Indus
Valley Civilization
The people of this civilization, CHINESE
according to Bisht (1982), tried to known for traditional medicines, a
standardize measurement of length to a product of centuries of experiences and
high degree of accuracy and designed discovery of the Chinese people
a ruler, the Mohenjo-daro ruler. discovered various medical properties
and uses of different plants and animals
to cure human illness
practice of acupuncture the Muslims and provided their scholars
known to develop many tools knowledge to create innovations and
compass, papermaking, gunpowder, develop new ideas. But contrary to the
and printing tools that became known Greeks, Muslim scientists placed
in the West only by the end of the greater value on science experiments
Middle Ages (Davies, 1995) rather than plain-thought experiments.
invented other tools like iron plough, This led to the development of the
wheelbarrow, and propeller, among scientific method in the Muslim world
others and made significant improvements by
developed a design of different models using experiments to distinguish
of bridges (Zhongguo ke xue yuan, between competing scientific theories
1983), invented the first seismological set within a generally empirical
detector, and developed a dry dock orientation
facility (Needham et al., 1971)
made significant records on
IBN AL-HAYTHAM
supernovas, lunar and solar eclipses,
and comets, which were carefully Muslim scientist
recorded and preserved to understand also regarded as the Father of Optics,
better the heavenly bodies and their especially for his empirical proof of the
effects to our world (Mayall, 1939) intromission theory of light.
observed the heavenly bodies to
understand weather changes and
MUHAMMAD IBN MUSA AL- KHWARIZMI
seasons that may affect their daily
activities mathematician
used lunar calendars, too gave his name to the concept of the
known in seismology algorithm while the term algebra is
made them more prepared in times of derived from al-jabr, the beginning of
natural calamities. the title of one of his publications. What
is now known as the Arabic Numeral
System originally came from India, but
NEEDHAM (1986)
Muslim mathematicians did make
it may have been the religious and several refinements to the number
philosophical framework of Chinese system, such as the introduction of
intellectuals that made them unable to decimal point notation.
accept the ideas of laws of nature.
JABIR IBN HAYYAN
MIDDLE EAST COUNTRIES
"Father of Chemistry" (Derewenda,
dominantly occupied by Muslims 2007; Warren, 2005).
With the spread of Islam in the 7th and
8th centuries, a period of Muslim
IBN SINA
scholarship, or what is called the
Golden Age of Islam lasted until the pioneered the science of experimental
13th century medicine and was the first physician to
common language of Arabic, access to conduct clinical trials (Jacquart, 2008)
Greek texts from the Byzantine Empire, two most notable works in medicine,
and their proximity to India were the Book of Healing and The Canon
contributory to the intellectualization of of Medicine, were used as standard
 medicinal texts in both the Muslim world The great structures of the Egyptian
and in Europe during the 17th century pyramids and the early dams built to
discovery of the contagious nature of divert water from the Nile River are
infectious diseases and the introduction some proofs of their advanced
of clinical pharmacology (Craig & civilization
Walter, 2000).
EGYPT
There are numerous Muslim scholars who
known to be a center of alchemy, which
made significant contributions in the field of
science, mathematics, astronomy, philosophy, is known as the medieval forerunner of
and even in the field of social sciences. The chemistry. They tried to study human
decline of this golden age of Islam started anatomy and pharmacology, and
in the 11th to 13th century due to the applied important components such as
conquest of the Mongols whereby libraries, examination, diagnosis, treatment, and
observatories, and other learning institutions prognosis for the treatment of diseases.
were destroyed. These components displayed strong
parallels to the basic empirical method
of studying science.
DEVELOPMENT OF SCIENCE IN AFRICA

AFRICANS
AFRICA used three types of calendars: lunar,
solar, and stellar, or a combination
blessed with natural and mineral
of the three.
resources
Science also emerged in this part of the
planet long before the Europeans METALLURGY
colonized it. The history of science and
also known in the African regions
mathematics show that similar to other
during the ancient times
ancient civilizations, the early
North Africa and the Nile Valley
civilizations in Africa are knowledge
imported iron technology from the Near
producers, too.
East region that enabled them to
benefit from the developments during
ANCIENT EGYPTIAN CIVILIZATION the Bronze Age until the Iron Age
They invented metal tools used in their
contributed immensely and made
homes, in agriculture, and in building
significant advances in the fields of
their magnificent architectures
astronomy, mathematics, and medicine
development of geometry was a
product of necessity to preserve the LEBOMBO BONE
layout and ownership of farmlands of
from the mountains between Swaziland
the Egyptians living along the Nile River
and South Africa, which may have been
The rules of geometry were developed
a tool for multiplication, division, and
and used to build rectilinear structures,
simple mathematical calculation or a
the post of lintel architecture of Egypt
six- month lunar calendar, is
These early science activities in Egypt
considered to be the oldest known
were developed to improve the quality
mathematical artifact dated from
of life of the Egyptians especially in
35,000 BCE
building their early homes and cities
 ANCIENT EGYPTIANS TECHNOLOGY
good in the four fundamental used by people in building houses,
mathematical operations and other irrigations, and in developing tools that
mathematical skills they can use in everyday life
have knowledge of the basic concepts focuses on using and developing house
of algebra and geometry tools used in everyday life
Islamic regions in Africa during the
medieval period was also benefiting
They developed tools for planting, hunting,
from mathematical learning, which is cooking, and fishing; for fighting their enemies
considered advanced during those during war or tribal conflicts; and for
times, such as algebra, geometry, and transportation, both on land and on
trigonometry waterways. They also developed technologies
in creating musical instruments.
BRIEF HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY IN THE
METAL AGE
PHILIPPINES
different archeological artifacts
started way back before the country
discovered in different parts of the
gained its independence from the
country
American colonizers
had a significant influence on the lives
of early Filipinos
PRE-COLONIAL PERIOD sophisticated designs of gold and silver
early inhabitants of the archipelago had jewelry, ceramics, and metal tools
proved that their technological ideas
their own culture and traditions
had their own belief system and helped in the development of different
indigenous knowledge system that tools
trading with China, Indonesia, Japan,
keeps them organized and sustained
their lives and communities for many and other nearby countries have
years influenced their lives by providing
Science is embedded in the way of life different opportunities for cultural and
of the people technological exchange.

SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE INDIGENOUS SCIENCE OR FOLK

SCIENCE
observed in the way they plant their
ancient practices in science and
crops that provide them food
in taking care of animals to help them in technology
their daily tasks
for food production SPANISH COLONIAL PERIOD
observed in the way they interpret the
brought with them their own culture and
movements of heavenly bodies to
practices
predict seasons and climates, and in
established schools for boys and girls
organizing days into months and years
and introduced the concept of subjects
use science in preparing the soil for
and disciplines
agricultural purposes and like any other
ancient cultures, they discovered the
medicinal uses of plants.
 beginning of formal science and AMERICANS
technology in the country, known now
have more influence in the
as school of science and technology
development of science and technology
slowly became modernized
in the Philippines compared to the
adapting some Western technology
Spaniards
and their ways of life
established the public education
Filipinos developed ways to replicate
system
the technology brought by the
improved the engineering works and
Spaniards using indigenous materials
the health conditions of the people
Medicine and advanced science were
established a modern research
introduced in formal colleges and
university, the University of the
universities established by the Catholic
Philippines, and created more public
orders
hospitals than the former colonial
master
LEARNING OF SCIENCE IN SCHOOL mineral resources of the country were
also explored and exploited during the
focuses on understanding different
American times
concepts related to the human body,
Transportation and communication
plants, animals, and heavenly bodies
systems were improved, though not
accessible throughout the country
GALLEON TRADE did everything to "Americanize" the
Philippines
brought additional technology and
reorganized the learning of science and
development in the Philippines
introduced it in public and private
only beneficial for the Spaniards, these
schools
trades allowed other ideas, crops, tools,
cultural practices, technology, and
Western practices to reach the country BASIC EDUCATION
Some Filipino students who were able
science education focuses on nature
to study in Europe also contributed to the
advancement of medicine, engineering, studies and science and sanitation,
arts, music, and literature in the country. until it became a subject formally known
as "Science."
teaching of science in higher education
PHILIPPINES has also greatly improved and
modernized
being one of the centers of global trade Researches were done to control
in Southeast Asia during that time, was malaria, cholera, and tuberculosis and
considered to be one of the most other tropical diseases.
developed places in the region
blessed with these developments, the
superstitious beliefs of the people and DESIRE OF THE AMERICANS TO
the Catholic doctrines and practices DEVELOP THE HUMAN RESOURCES OF
during the Spanish era halted the THE PHILIPPINES
growth of science in the country beneficial in the country
allowed American scholars to introduce
new knowledge and technology in the
country
 The Protestant church missions in different The development of science and
places in the country also brought hospitals technology in the Philippines, based on its
and schools to far-flung areas. Little by little, brief history, is shaped by several factors and
these efforts built a stronger foundation for influences.
science and technology in the country.

INTERNAL INFLUENCES
WORLD WAR II
Survival
destabilized the development of the Culture
country in many ways Economic Activities
Institutions and public facilities were
turned into ashes, houses were burned,
EXTERNAL INFLUENCES
and many lives were destroyed
country had a difficult time to rebuild Foreign Colonizers
itself from the ruins of the war Trades with Foreign Countries
human spirit to survive and to rebuild International Economic Demands
the country may be strong but the
capacity of the country to bring back
GOVERNMENT POLICIES ON SCIENCE
what was destroyed was limited
AND TECHNOLOGY

The Philippine government introduced and

REPARATION FUNDS
implemented several programs, projects, and
focused on building some institutions policies to boost the area of science and
and public facilities like schools, technology. The goal is to prepare the whole
hospitals, and transportation systems country and its people to meet the demands of
a technologically driven world and capacitate
the people to live in a world driven by science.
REPARATION MONEY
PADILLA-CONCEPCION (2015)
from Japan
also concentrated on building highways reported that in 2015, in response to
and in providing technological training the ASEAN 2015 Agenda
and human resource development in government, particularly the
the country Department of Science and Technology
(DOST), has sought the expertise of the
National Research Council of the
Since the establishment of the new
republic, the whole nation has been focusing Philippines (NCRP) to consult various
on using its limited resources in improving its sectors in the society to study how the
science and technological capability. It has Philippines can prepare itself in
explored the use of ODA or Overseas meeting the ASEAN 2015 Goals. As a
Development Allocations from different result of the consultation, the NCRP is
countries to help the country improve its expected to recommend policies and
scientific productivity and technological programs that will improve the
capability. Human resource development is competitiveness of the Philippines in
at the heart of these efforts focusing on the ASEAN Region
producing more engineers, scientists,
technology experts, doctors, and other
professionals in the country.
 POLICIES BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES, AGRICULTURE,
AND FORESTRY
Protecting and conserving
SOCIAL SCIENCES, HUMANITIES,
biodiversity by full
EDUCATION, INTERNATIONAL POLICIES
implementation of existing laws
AND GOVERNANCE
Use of biosafety and standard
Integrating ASEAN awareness in model by ASEAN countries
basic education without adding to Promoting indigenous knowledge
the curriculum systems and indigenous people's
Emphasizing teaching in the mother conservation
tongue Formulation of common food and
Developing school infrastructure safety standards
and providing for ICT broadband
There are also other existing programs
Local food security
supported by the Philippine government
through the DOST. Some of these projects are
PHYSICS, ENGINEERING AND the following:
INDUSTRIAL RESEARCH, EARTH AND
Providing funds for basic research and
SPACE SCIENCES, AND MATHEMATICS
patents related to science and
Emphasizing degrees, licenses, technology. The government funds
and employment opportunities basic and applied researches. Funding
Outright grants for peer monitoring of these research and projects are also
Review of R.A. 9184 from the Overseas Development Aid
Harnessing science and technology (ODA) from different countries.
as an independent mover of Providing scholarships for
development undergraduate and graduate studies of
students in the field of science and
technology. Saloma (2015) pointed out
MEDICAL, CHEMICAL, AND
that the country needs to produce more
PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES
doctoral graduates in the field of
Ensuring compliance of drug- science and technology, and produce
manufacturing firms with ASEAN- more research in these fields, including
harmonized standards by full engineering.
implementation of the Food and Establishing more branches of the
Drug Administration Philippine Science High School System
Creating an education council for training young Filipinos in the field of
dedicated to standardization of science and technology.
pharmaceutical services and care Creating science and technology parks
Empowering food and drug to encourage academe and industry
agencies to conduct evidence- partnerships.
based research as pool of Balik Scientist Program to encourage
information Filipino scientists abroad to come home
Allocating two percent of the GDP and work in the Philippines or conduct
to research research and projects in collaboration
Legislating a law supporting human with Philippine-based scientists.
genome projects Developing science and technology
parks in academic campuses to
 encourage academe and industry related fields in college.
partnerships.
The establishment of the National Lately, the Commission on Higher Education
Science Complex and National launched its Philippine-California Advanced
Engineering Complex within the Research Institutes (PICARI) Project to allow
University of the Philippines campus in several higher education institutions in the
Diliman. These aimed to develop more Philippines and some US- based laboratories,
science and technology and research institutes, and universities to work on
engineering manpower resources research and projects related to science,
needed by the country. They also agriculture, engineering, health, and
aimed to produce more researches in technology. This project is hoped to
these fields. strengthen the STEM competitiveness of the
country.
The Philippine-American Academy of Science
and Engineering (PAASE, 2008) identified
There are many other areas and fields that the
several capacity-building programs such as:
country is looking forward to embark various
Establishment of national centers of research and projects. The following are some
excellence of them:
Manpower and institutional
1. Use of alternative and safe energy
development programs, such as the
2. Harnessing mineral resources
Engineering and Science Education
3. Finding cure for various diseases and
Program (ESEP) to produce more PhD
illness
graduates in science and engineering
4. Climate change and global warming
Establishment of regional centers to
5. Increasing food production
support specific industries that will lead
6. Preservation of natural resources
the country in different research and
7. Coping with natural disasters and
development areas
calamities
Establishment of science and
8. Infrastructure development
technology business centers to assist,
advise, and incubate
technopreneurship ventures
The Philippine Congress has also created
Strengthen science education at an
various laws related to science and
early stage through the Philippine
technology. These laws serve as a legal
Science High School system
framework for science and technology in the
In the field of education, several science- country. These laws vary according to different
related programs and projects were created to themes such as: conservation, health-related,
develop the scientific literacy of the country technology-building, and supporting basic
research, among others. Some laws and
Special science classes were organized and policies are in line with international treaties
special science elementary schools were such as the United Nations (UN), United
established in different regions. Aside from Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
these, science and mathematics in basic Organization (UNESCO), Association of
education were continuously improved. The Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and other
current K to 12 education program included international agencies.
Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics (STEM) as one of its major tracks
in the senior high school program to
encourage more students to enroll in science-
 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY These Filipino scientists are:
Policies, Programs, Projects RAMON CABANOS BARBA

Social his outstanding research on tissue

International Needs,
National
Treaty
Legal
Issues,
culture in Philippine mangoes
Goals Frameworks
and
Problems
JOSEFINO CACAS COMISO
Figure 4. Development of Science and his works on observing the
Technology Policies in the Philippines characteristics of Antarctica by using
satellite images
As shown in the diagram, the development of
policies in science and technology is shaped
JOSE BEJAR CRUZ JR.
or influenced by several variables: policies
need to be aligned to national goals, consider known internationally in the field of
international commitments based on legal electrical engineering; was elected as
frameworks, and respond to various social officer of the famous Institute of
needs, issues, and problems. Science and Electrical and Electronic Engineering
technology policies ensure that the whole
country and all people will experience the
LOURDES JANSUY CRUZ
progress that science can bring. Policies are
guides to direct all efforts to a goal of notable for her research on sea snail
developing a scientifically advanced country venom

FABIAN MILLAR DAYRIT

FAMOUS FILIPINOS IN THE FIELD OF
SCIENCE his research on herbal medicine
School science is filled with names of foreign
scientists: Einstein, Galileo Galilei, Newton, RAFAEL DINEROS GUERRERO III
Faraday, Darwin, and many other Western
his research on tilapia culture
scientists. We rarely hear of Filipino scientists
being discussed in science classes
ENRIQUE MAPUA OSTREA JR.
LEE-CHUA (2000)
for inventing the meconium drugs
identified 10 outstanding Filipino
testing
scientists who have made significant
contributions in Philippine science
LILIAN FORMALEJO PATENA
These scientists are also famous abroad
especially in different science disciplines: for doing research on plant
agriculture, mathematics, physics, medicine, biotechnology
marine science, chemistry, engineering, and
biology
MARI-JO PANGANIBAN RUIZ
for being an outstanding educator and
graph theorist
 GREGORY LIGOT TANGONAN professionals, and scientists in the area
of medical and public health
for his research in the field of
communications technology
UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES-
DILIMAN
There are other outstanding Filipino scientists
who are recognized here and abroad for their has established a national science and
outstanding contributions in science: engineering complex to develop more
research and produce more scientists
CAESAR A. SALOMA
and engineers in the country
an internationally renowned physicist
Individual
Interests in SCHOOL
SCIENCE
EDGARDO GOMEZ Science SCIENCE
LABORATORIES

famous scientist in marine science (TEACHERS AND

(REAL-LIFE
Family LEARNING
CONTEXT)
ENVIRONMENT)
Natural
WILLIAM PADOLINA Environment
FILIPINO SCIENTISTS
chemistry and president of National
Academy of Science and Technology Figure 5. Factors that Influence the
(NAST)-Philippines Development of Filipino Scientists

Many Filipino scientists, whether they are in

ANGEL ALCALA the country or abroad, always excel in their
job. The Filipino spirit in their souls has never
marine science
faded. They continue to bring honor to the
country. They make ordinary things in an
UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES-LOS extraordinary way. They are always at par with
BAÑOS other scientists in spite of the limited facilities
we have here in the country.
science paradise for agriculture,
forestry, plant and animal science, and HUMAN FLOURISHING
veterinary science
produced numerous scientists and
various research in the fields EUDAIMONIA
mentioned
“good spirited”
coined by Greek Philosopher Aristotle
UNIVERSITY OF THE To describe the pinnacle of happiness
PHILIPPINES - VISAYAS that is attainable by humans
also a national center for marine NICOMACHEAN ETHICS
science, fisheries, and other related
sciences Human Flourishing arises as a result of
different components such as :

UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES 1. Phronesis

MANILA 2. Friendship
center of excellence and has produced 3. Wealth
many researchers, doctors, health
 4. Power SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND HUMAN
FLOURISHING
In ancient Greek society, they believe that
acquiring these will surely bring the seekers Every discovery, innovation and
happiness which in effect allows them to success contribute to our pool of
pertake in the greater notion of what we called human knowledge.
the GOOD.
Human’s perpetual needs to locate
As time change, people found means to himself in the world by finding proofs to
live more comfortably, explore more places, trace evolution.
develop more products, and make more
Elicits our idea of self-importance
money and repeating the process in full circle.
Technology is a human activity that we
In the beginning, early people relied on
excel in as a result in achieving science.
simple machines to make hunting and
(Heidegger)
gathering easier. Our concept of human
flourishing today proves to be different from Good is inherently related to the truth.
what Aristotle originally perceived then
humans of today are expected to become
SCIENCE AS METHOD AND RESULTS
a “man of the world”.
Science stems from objectivity brought
Competition as a means of survival has
upon by a rigid method
become passe; coordination is the new trend.
Claim to reason and empiricism
EASTERN VS. WESTERN CONCEPTION
REGARDING SOCIETY AND HUMAN
FLOURISHING:
STEPS IN SCIENTIFIC METHOD:
EASTERN WESTERN
1. Observe
CONCEPTION CONCEPTION
focus is community- more focused on the - Determine if there are unexplained
centric individual occurrences unfolding
2. Determine the Problem
individual should Aristotelian view
sacrifice himself for - Identify factors involved
the sake of society
3. Formulate hypothesis

Chinese Confucian Aims for Eudaimonia - Explain the phenomenon

system as the ultimate good - Goal is to reject the null hypothesis
and accept the alternative
Japanese bushido hypothesis
Encourage studies 4. Conduct experiment
of literature,
sciences and art for - Setting up dependent and
a greater cause independent variable and how they
affect each other

5. Gather and analyze

- Examine if data gathered are
significant enough to conclude
results
 6. Formulate conclusion and provide Learning that Ian basically does this to
recommendation everyone, Lea was crushed. She vowed that
she will never assume again.
- In case others would want to
broaden the study
FALSIFICATION THEORY
VERIFICATION THEORY
As long as an ideology is not proven to
Discipline is science if it be confirmed or be false and can best explain a
interpreted in the event of an alternative phenomenon over alternative theories,
hypothesis being accepted. we should accept the said ideology
Premium in empiricism Allowed emergence of theories
otherwise rejected by the verification
Takes into account those results which
theory
is measurable experiments which are
repeatable Encourages research in order to
determine which among the theories
can stand the test of falsification.
VIENNA CIRCLE
Group of scholars who believed that;
KARL POPPER
Only those which can observed should
Aim at the production of new falsifiable
be regarded as meaningful,
prediction
Reject those which cannot be directly scientific practiced is characterized by
accessed as meaningless. its continual effort to test theories
against experience and make revisions
based on the outcomes of these tests.
EXAMPLE OF VERIFICATION THEORY

Suppose, for instance, this girl, Lea has a SCIENCE AS SOCIAL ENDEAVOR
theory that her classmate Ian likes her. Good,
Science helps us to connect ourselves
she thought, I like him too. But how do I know
with different cultures
that he likes me.
Science is not entirely full proof and it
She began by observing him and his does not claim for definite results.
interaction with her. Several gestures he noted Human flourishing requires us to excel
include his always exchanging pleasantries in various dimensions.
with her whenever they bump into each other,
his big smiles when he sees her and him going
out of his way to greet her even when riding a SCIENCE EDUCATION IN THE
jeepney. PHILIPPINES

Through these observations, she was then

able to conclude that Ian does like her THE CONCEPT OF SCIENCE EDUCATION
because, she thought why would anyone do
focuses on teaching, learning, and
something like that for a person he does not
understanding science
like.
 TEACHING SCIENCE DEVELOPING A SCIENCE CULTURE
involves developing ways on how to an immense responsibility for schools.
effectively teach science
exploring pedagogical theories and models
in helping teachers teach scientific SCIENCE EDUCATION IN BASIC AND
concepts and processes effectively TERTIARY EDUCATION

LEARNING SCIENCE
IN BASIC EDUCATION
includes both pedagogy and the most
science education helps students learn
interesting aspect, which is helping
important concepts and facts that are
students understand and love science.
related to everyday life (Carale & Campo,
2003; Meador, 2005; Worth & Grollman,
UNDERSTANDING SCIENCE 2003) including important skills such as
process skills, critical thinking skills, and life
implies developing and applying science-
skills that are needed in coping up with
process skills and using science literacy in
daily life activities (Chaille & Britain,
understanding the natural world and
2002). Science education also develops
activities in everyday life.
positive attitude such as: the love for
knowledge, passion for innovative things,
JOHN DEWEY (2001) curiosity to study about nature, and
creativity (Lind, 1997). Science education
stressed the importance of utilizing the will develop a strong foundation for
natural environment to teach students. studying science and for considering
Accordingly, nature must indeed furnish its science-related careers in the future. This
physical stimuli to provide wealth of is an investment for the country to develop
meaning through social activities and a scientifically cultured and literate
thinking. It is not surprising therefore that citizenry.
science education is important.

IN TERTIARY EDUCATION
MARX (1994)
science education deals with developing
opines that science is going to be one of students' understanding and appreciation
the most important school subjects in the of science ideas and scientific works. This
future. is done through offering basic science
courses in the General Education
SCIENCE EDUCATION curriculum. Science education in the
tertiary level also focuses on the
justified by the vast amount of scientific preparation of science teachers, scientists,
knowledge developed in this area that engineers, and other professionals in
prepares citizens in a scientifically and various science-related fields such as
technologically driven world engineering, agriculture, medicine, and
provides skills and knowledge that are health sciences. The state provides
necessary for a person to live in what scholarships to encourage more students
Knight (1986) describes as the age of to pursue science courses.
science and to develop a citizenry that will
meet the goals of science in the society
(Tilghman, 2005). SCIENCE SCHOOLS IN THE PHILIPPINES
One outstanding program for science
education supported by the government is
 the establishment of science schools in The SSES Project aims to develop Filipino children
various parts of the country. There are also equipped with scientific and technological
several government programs knowledge, skills, and values. Its mission is to:
implemented by the Department of provide a learning environment to science-
Education and few private schools for inclined children through a special
science education. curriculum that recognizes the multiple
intelligences of the learners;
promote the development of lifelong
PHILIPPINE SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL learning skills; and
SYSTEM (PSHSS) foster the holistic development of the
This is a government program for gifted learners.
students in the Philippines. It is a service
institute of the Department of Science and
Technology (DOST) whose mandate is to The subject Science and Health is taught in Grade
offer free scholarship basis for secondary 1 with a longer time compared to other subjects:
course with special emphasis on subjects 70 minutes for Grades I to III and 80 minutes for
Grades IV to VI. The curriculum also utilizes
pertaining to the sciences, with the end-
different instructional approaches that address the
view of preparing its students for a science
learning styles and needs of the learners like the
career (Republic Act No. 3661). The use of investigatory projects.
school maintains a dormitory for all its
students.
Since its inception, the PSHSS continues QUEZON CITY REGIONAL SCIENCE HIGH
to pursue its vision to develop Filipino
SCHOOL
science scholars with scientific minds and
passion for excellence. PSHSS students The school was established on September
have proven to be a beacon of excellence, 17, 1967. Originally, it was named Quezon
courage, and hope for the country. They City Science High School. It was turned
have brought honor to the Philippines into a regional science high school for the
through their exemplary achievements in National Capital Region in 1999. The
various international competitions and school was a product of a dream to
research circles. When the students establish a special science school for
graduate from the school, they are talented students in science and
expected to pursue degrees in science and mathematics. The focus of the curriculum
technology at various colleges and is on science and technology. The school
universities locally or abroad. still teaches the basic education courses
prescribed by the Department of Education
(DepEd) for secondary education.
SPECIAL SCIENCE ELEMENTARY However, there are additional subjects in
SCHOOLS (SSES) PROJECT sciences and technology that students
in pursuance to DepEd Order No. 73 s. should take. The school envisions to serve
2008, and DepEd Order No. 51 s. 2010. as a venue in providing maximum
This project started in June 2007 with 57 opportunities for science-gifted students to
identified elementary schools that develop spirit of inquiry and creativity. The
participated or were identified as science school is well-supported by the local
elementary schools in the country. Since its government unit and by the Parents and
inception, the number have grown to more Teachers Association (PTA). The school is
than 60 schools nationwide and this is now under the Department of Education.
its sixth year of implementation.
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 teachers and their methods of teaching are
in the Philippines. The organization and very effective in transmitting cultural
curriculum of the school puts more knowledge in their minds. The lessons they
emphasis on science and mathematics. learned are intimately interwoven with their
MSHS aims to produce scientists with culture and the environment. These
souls. In order to do this, humanities lessons comprised of good values and life
courses and other electives are included in stories of people on their daily life
their curriculum. Students are also struggles. Their views about nature and
encouraged to participate in various their reflections on their experiences in
extracurricular activities: The school daily life are evident in their stories, poems,
administers an entrance exam, the Manila and songs.
Science High School Admission Test
(MSAT), for students who wish to enroll.
The MSAT has five parts: aptitude in Some examples of indigenous knowledge that are
science, aptitude test in mathematics, taught and practiced by the indigenous people are:
problem-solving test in science, problem-
Predicting weather conditions and seasons
solving test in mathematics, and
using knowledge in observing animals’
proficiency in English. The school prides
behavior and celestial bodies;
itself from producing outstanding alumni
Using herbal medicine;
and for winning various national
Preserving foods;
competitions.
Classifying plants and animals into families
CENTRAL VISAYAN INSTITUTE and groups based on cultural properties;
FOUNDATION Preserving and selecting good seeds for
planting;
It is the home and pioneer of the prominent Using indigenous technology in daily lives;
school-based innovation known as the Building local irrigation systems;
Dynamic Learning Program (DLP). The Classifying different types of soil for
DLP is a synthesis of classical and modern planting based on cultural properties;
pedagogical theories adapted to foster the Producing wines and juices from tropical
highest level of learning, creativity, and fruits; and
productivity. Keeping the custom of growing plants and
The school takes pride in its Research vegetables in the yard.
Center for Theoretical Physics (RCTP)
established in 1992, which organizes small
international workshops to foster the
INDIGENOUS SCIENCE
informal but intense exchange of ideas and
perspectives on outstanding problems in part of the indigenous knowledge system
physics and mathematics. practiced by different groups of people and
early civilizations (Gribbin, 2001; Mkapa,
2004; Sibisi, 2004).
INDIGENOUS SCIENCE AND includes complex arrays of knowledge,
TECHNOLOGY IN THE PHILIPPINES expertise, practices, and representations
that guide human societies in their
enumerable interactions with the natural
INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM milieu: agriculture, medicine, naming and
explaining natural phenomena, and
embedded in the daily life experiences of strategies for coping with changing
young children as they grow up. They live environments (Pawilen, 2005). Ogawa
and grow in a society where the members (1995) claimed that it is collectively lived in
of the community prominently practice and experienced by the people of a given
indigenous knowledge. Their parents and culture.
other older folks served as their first
 CAJETE (2004) PAWILEN (2006)
indigenous science includes everything, developed a simple framework for
from metaphysics to philosophy and understanding indigenous science.
various practical technologies practiced by Accordingly, indigenous science is
indigenous peoples both past and present. composed of traditional knowledge that
uses science process skills and guided by
community values and culture.
LACCARINO (2003)
elaborated this idea by explaining that INDIGENOUS SCIENCE
science is a part of culture, and how
science is done largely depends on the
Uses: Science Process Skills
cultural practices of the people.
Guided by: Community Culture and Values
Composed of: Traditional Knowledge
Indigenous beliefs also develop desirable values
that are relevant or consistent to scientific attitudes Figure 6. The Concept of Indigenous Science
as identified by Johnston (2000), namely:
1. motivating attitudes;
1. Indigenous science uses science process
2. cooperating attitudes;
skills such as observing, comparing,
3. practical attitudes; and
classifying, measuring, problem solving,
4. reflective attitudes.
inferring, communicating, and predicting.
These cultural beliefs therefore can be good
foundation for developing positive values toward
learning and doing science and in bringing science 2. Indigenous science is guided by culture
in a personal level. and community values such as the
following:

PAWILEN (2005) The land is a source of life. It is a precious

explained that indigenous science gift from the creator.
knowledge has developed diverse The Earth is revered as “Mother Earth.” It is
the origin of their identity as people.
structures and contents through the
All living and nonliving things are
interplay between the society and the
environment interconnected and interdependent with
each other.
Human beings are stewards or trustee of
KUHN (1962) the land and other natural resources. They
have a responsibility to preserve it.
developmental stages of most sciences are
Nature is a friend to human beings-it needs
characterized by continual competition
respect and proper care.
between a number of distinct views of
nature, each partially derived from, and all
roughly compatible with the dictates of
3. Indigenous science is composed of
scientific observation and method.
traditional knowledge practiced and valued
by people and communities such as ethno-
SIBISI (2004) biology, ethno-medicine, indigenous
farming methods, and folk astronomy.
pointed out that indigenous science
provides the basics of astronomy,
pharmacology, food technology, or
metallurgy, which were derived from
traditional knowledge and practices.
 INDIGENOUS SCIENCE THE HUMAN CONDITION BEFORE
COMMON ERA
important in the development of science
and technology in the Philippines. Like the ❖ Our early ancestors’ primal need to survive
ancient civilizations, indigenous science paved way for the invention of several
gave birth to the development of science developments.
and technology as a field and as a ❖ humans are able to utilize abundant
discipline. Indigenous science helped the materials for their own ease and comfort.
people in understanding the natural
environment and in coping with everyday
HOMO ERECTUS
life. UNESCO’s Declaration on Science
and the Use of Scientific Knowledge (1999) have been using fire to cook, through
recognized indigenous science as a chipping one flint over the other to produce
historical and valuable contribution to a spark, all the while without realizing the
science and technology. 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
TECHNOLOGY AS A WAY OF REVEALING sapiens, and humans began to sharpen
stones as one would a knife; an example of
this is the simple machine called wedge.
“GENERATION GAP”
attributed mainly to the changes brought This particular period proved to be difficult for our
about by technology. Although the original ancestors, but in a remarkably distinct way. There
idea is for technology to help everyone, it is little to no written accounts except for several
cannot be denied that until today, not cave drawings and unearthed artifacts from
everyone is comfortable in using the various parts of the world that narrate how their
different kinds of technologies. Mostly culture came to be. It then proves that there is little
those who belong to the older generation capacity for our ancestors to contemplate and
think that these technologies are too perceive things outside themselves in a more
complicated to operate. They have been reflective manner. For instance, there are several
used to the simple living in the past and excavations in different parts of Europe of
these available technological devices, miniature statues prevalent during the Paleolithic
period, the so-called “Venus” figure. It depicts a
though very appealing, are a difficult puzzle
rudimentary carving of a voluptuous woman out of
to them.
ivory or stone. The reason behind this is still
this gap is not something to be worried
unknown to archaeologists and anthropologists
about. This does not in any way make alike; they can only infer that the humans of
technology a villain. Instead, it is a yesterday have a certain fixation on the female
challenge for people in the field of science anatomy. What did this fascination translate to?
and technology to make these Lack of conclusive evidence hinders us from
technological advancements more proceeding any further.
accessible and less confusing for people
who are not as young anymore. This is also
a challenge for the younger generation to Soon enough, people discovered minerals and
take the older generation to an exciting began forging metalwork. They realized that these
journey in science and technology. In this substances are more durable, malleable, and have
way, everyone can experience what it is more luster than the previous material. On the
like to live with ease and comfort because other hand, there are some indicators that humans
of the availability of modern technology. in the past share the same concerns and interests,
suggesting that these inclinations persist through
multitudes of generation over several millennia.
Fur clothing and animal skin are primarily used for THE HUMAN CONDITION IN THE
comfort against harsh winds-our ancestors are COMMON ERA
able to draw the connection between their being
naked and vulnerable due to some lack of fur or
protective covering which would otherwise allow For a long time, humans were content with their
them to withstand extreme weather conditions. relationship with nature. Earliest case of man-
They begin to cover themselves up out of made extinction occurred over 12,000 years ago,
necessity, and gradually, added several more to possibly brought upon by hunting and territorial
their garments. disputes.

Some of those found at excavation sites are

HOLOCENE EXTINCTION
reminiscent of early accessories, suggesting that
our ancestors have been deeply engaged in the also called the sixth extinction or more aptly
concept of beauty. Perhaps, they had taken a liking Anthropocene extinction
to a certain shiny stone, or a perfectly shaped occurred from as early as between 100,000
bone, and wanted to wear it as trophy. to 200,000 years up to the present
pertains to the ongoing extinction of several
species-both flora and fauna-due to human
Excavations on the latter half of the Stone Age activity. Driven by their primal need to
include several figures thought to be ceremonial, survive and gaining the upper hand in
meaning, that perhaps people of the time had also
terms of development and adaptability,
painstakingly wrought and hewed said figures in
humans were quick to find ways to drive off
honor of some deity. This notion, as it was then
other megafaunas threatening a
and as it is now, is often people’s resort to make
sense of events happening outside their control. prospective hunting spot and eventually,
The initial roster of primitive gods includes objects settling grounds.
they encounter through their day-to-day lives, so it
is not surprising that different tribes may have
different gods. Those who might have lived Position-wise, the humans of today are much
alongside majestic creatures, such as elephants better off compared to humans several centuries
and mammoths, might have been awed by their ago. Advancements in medicine, technology,
size and worshiped them as the owner of the land, health, and education ushered in humanity’s best
asking for blessings in their hunting ground. yet, and show no sign of stopping. Below are some
of the notable comparisons then and now:

On the contrary, they might have hunted the

mammoths for their woolly coat and meat, taking MORTALITY RATE.
down the animal for the entire community to eat. In
windy places near mountains, they might have had Due to technology, lesser women and
a mountain god to explain wind currents and ask children die during birth, assuring robust
for provisions. On the other hand, those who were population and strong workforce.
near coastal areas or bodies of water might have Medical care for premature infants allows
had water gods they referred to when asking for a them to survive and develop normally,
good catch. However, it might be also the case that while proper maternal care ensures that
people of prior civilizations shared several generic mothers can fully recover and remain
gods, such as the sun. empowered.

AVERAGE LIFESPAN.
Aside from the reason that people
engage less in combat and are less likely
to die in treatable diseases now as
opposed to then, science is able to
 prolong lives by enhancing living status purpose, and being are different from
and discovering different remedies to each other. He was able to expound on
most diseases. Distribution of medicines this point upon identifying that
is also made easier and faster. technology can either be perceived as
first, a means to achieve man’s end and
second, that which constitutes human
activity.
LITERACY RATE. the second perspective paints
technology in such a way that each
Access to education provided to more
period reveals a particular character
individuals generally creates a more
regarding man’s being. A characteristic
informed public that could determine a
design, or flaw, unfolds based on the
more just society.
repercussions brought upon by
immersing ourselves with a piece of new
technology. In effect, through
GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP). technology, a myriad of new questions
Although not an indicator of an average begins to mount. Rather than thinking
person’s lifestyle in a certain country, it is that humans have a clear idea of what to
often used to determine the value of the expect in a good life, it can be stated that
country’s goods and services produced technology allows humans to confront
within the territory given a certain time the unknown and see how they would
period. Higher country income is brought react.
upon by high productivity, often an
indicator of presence of technology.
This is the danger presented by too much reliance
on technology
Humans lose track of things that matter,
THE ESSENCE OF TECHNOLOGY reducing their surroundings to their
Humanity has indeed come a long way economic value.
from our primitive ways, and as a general
rule, it is said that we are more
“developed” than we were before. BACKTRACKING THE HUMAN
Modern humans are reliant on CONDITION
technology in their search for the good
Technology’s initial promises proved to be
life. We see ways and means from nature
true, regardless of its ramifications. All in all
to utilize and achieve growth-a goal that
the human condition improved, only if by
we believe would bring forth betterment.
improving we measure the level of comfort,
this view of technology proves to be goal-
various scientific breakthroughs, and
oriented.
improved lifestyles of those who had the
It assumes that it is instrumental in
luxury to afford to do so. Different
achieving a goal in mind, that it is a
machineries aid in prolonging lives-
purposeful, deliberate craft humans steer
assisting those with disabilities, honing
in order to reach some greater good.
efficiency in industrial workplaces, and
In the advent of postmodernism,
even exploring the universe for places we
however, the deterministic view
can thrive once all the Earth’s resources
appended to technology crumbled as
are depleted. As to the initial aims, it
people began to question if anything is
appears that things really did not much
deterministic at all. Some tried to
differ. Some places in the world are still
redefine technology away from its
battling for their daily survival-diseases,
purpose.
tribe wars, lack of habitable territories, and
One philosopher by the name of Martin
competitions on resources are several
Heidegger argued that its essence, or
 factors contributing to such. People still PLATO
wage wars on the basis of races, belief,
the task of understanding the things in the
and abundance of resources and/or
world runs parallel with the job of truly
territory; except that now, they are able to
getting into what will make the soul flourish.
inflict such in a global scale. A lot of people
In an attempt to understand reality and the
still subscribe to religion in explaining
external world, man must seek to
things that they do not know. For those who
understand himself, too.
have ceased to do so, they have turned
their worships to reverence of science.
Whether science or religion, these people
are still bent on trying to make sense of the ARISTOTLE
events happening in the world on the basis gave a definitive distinction between the
of either of these two paradigms. They are theoretical (logic, biology, physics, and
still trying to discover and rediscover things metaphysics) and practical sciences(ethics
that would give meaning to their lives- and politics).
whether it be honor, strength, or merit
People are still trying to make sense of their
existence in the world, and technology “TRUTH”
does little to aid them in their pursuit of life’s aim of the theoretical sciences
meaning

“GOOD”
It seems that the human condition, although more
sophisticated, is nothing but a rehashed version of end goal of the practical ones.
its former self. Nothing much has changed since
then, and it appears that nothing will change in the
times to come if we fail to shift our view elsewhere. ARISTOTLE AND HOW WE ALL ASPIRE
While it is true that technology offered us one FOR A GOOD LIFE
compelling notion of the truth and the good, we It is interesting to note that the first
should be staunch in our resolve if we want to
philosopher who approached the problem
know the real one. For starters, we might begin
of reality from a “scientific” lens as we know
with considering other concepts, which
corresponds to the Good, such as Aristotle’s now, is also the first thinker who dabbled
conception of human flourishing. His notion into the complex problematization of the
entertains the idea of holistic enrichment of a end goal of life: happiness. This man is
person situated in his society. A notable distinction none other than Aristotle.
on Aristotle’s idea is his subscription on evaluative
concepts called virtues and their role in achieving
the good life. Technological advancements are Compared to his teacher and predecessor, Plato,
seemingly occurring in a rapid pace that our Aristotle embarked on a different approach in
morality cannot quite keep up; no such figuring out reality. In contrast to Plato who
consideration was given in this approach in thought that things in this world are not real
achieving the good life. This will further be and are only copies of the real in the world of
discussed in the following chapters. forms, Aristotle puts everything back to the
ground in claiming that this world is all there is
to it and that this world is the only reality we
THE GOOD LIFE can all access. For Plato, change is so perplexing
that it can only make sense if there are two
In Ancient Greece, long before the word “science” realities: the world of forms and the world of
has been coined, the need to understand the world matter. Consider the human person. When you try
and reality was bound with the need, to understand to see yourself in front of the mirror, you normally
the self and the good life. say and think that you are looking at yourself-that
is, you are the person who slept last night and you
are the same person looking at yourself now,
despite the occasional changes like a new pimple graduate. She wants something more, maybe to
that grows on your nose. The same is true for a have a license and land a promising job in the
seed that you threw out of the garden last month. future. Every human person, according to Aristotle,
When you peek into the same patch of land where aspires for an end. This end, we have learned from
the seed ingrained itself into, you may be surprised the previous chapters, is happiness or human
to see a little plant showing itself to you and to the flourishing.
sun. Plato recognized change as a process and as
a phenomenon that happens in the world, that in
fact, it is constant. However, Plato also claims that No individual-young or old, fat or skinny, male or
despite the reality of change, things remain and female-resists happiness. We all want to be happy.
they retain their ultimate “whatness”; that you Aristotle claims that happiness is the be all and end
remain to be you despite the pimple that now sits all of everything that we do. We may not realize it
atop your nose. Plato was convinced that reality is but the end goal of everything that we do is
full of these seemingly contrasting manifestations happiness. If you ask one person why he is doing
of change and permanence. For Plato, this can what he is doing, he may not readily say that it is
only be explained by postulating two aspects of happiness that motivates him. Hard-pressed to
reality, two worlds if you wish: the world of forms explain why he is motivated by what motivates him
and the world of matter. In the world of matter, will reveal that happiness is the grand, motivating
things are changing and impermanent. In the world force in everything that he does. When Aristotle
of forms, the entities are only copies of the ideal claims that we want to be happy, he does not
and the models, and the forms are the only real necessarily mean the everyday happiness that we
entities. Things are red in this world because they obtain when we win a competition or we eat our
participate in what it means to be red in the world favorite dish in a restaurant. What Aristotle actually
of forms. means is human flourishing, a kind of contentment
in knowing that one is getting the best out of life. A
kind of feeling that one has maxed out his
Aristotle, for his part, disagreed with his teacher’s potentials in the world, that he has attained the
position and forwarded the idea that there is no crux of his humanity.
reality over and above what the senses can
perceive. As such, it is only by observation of the
external world that one can truly understand what HAPPINESS AS THE GOAL OF A GOOD
reality is all about. Change is a process that is LIFE
inherent in things. We, along with all other entities
in the world, start as potentialities and move In the eighteenth century, John Stuart Mill
toward actualities. The movement, of course, declared the Greatest Happiness Principle by
entails change. Consider a seed that eventually saying that an action is right as far as it maximizes
germinates and grows into a plant. The seed that the attainment of happiness for the greatest
turned to become the plant underwent change- number of people. At a time when people were
from the potential plant that is the seed to its full skeptical about claims on the metaphysical, people
actuality, the plant. could not make sense of the human flourishing that
Aristotle talked about in the days of old. Mill said
that individual happiness of each individual should
Aristotle extends this analysis from the external be prioritized and collectively dictates the kind of
world into the province of the human person and action that should be endorsed. Consider the
declares that even human beings are potentialities pronouncements against mining. When an action
who aspire for their actuality. Every human being benefits the greatest number of people, said action
moves according to some end. Every action that is deemed ethical.
emanates from a human person is a function of the
purpose (telos) that the person has. When a boy
asks for a burger from a Filipino burger joint, the MATERIALISM
action that he takes is motivated primarily by the
purpose that he has, inferably to get full or to taste The first materialists were the atomists in
the burger that he only sees on TV. When a girl Ancient Greece. Democritus and
tries to finish her degree in the university, despite Leucippus led a school whose primary
the initial failures she may have had, she definitely belief is that the world is made up of and is
is being propelled by a higher purpose than to just controlled by the tiny indivisible units in the
world called atomos or seeds. For world where we are in is only just a
Democritus and his disciples, the world, temporary reality where we have to
including human beings, is made up of maneuver around while waiting for the
matter. There is no need to posit immaterial ultimate return to the hands of God.
entities as sources of purpose. Atomos
simply comes together randomly to form
HUMANISM
the things in the world. As such, only
material entities matter. In terms of human another school of thought espouses the
flourishing, matter is what makes us attain freedom of man to carve his own destiny
happiness. We see this at work with most and to legislate his own laws, free from the
people who are clinging on to material shackles of a God that monitors and
wealth as the primary source of the controls. For humanists, man is literally the
meaning of their existence. captain of his own ship. Inspired by the
enlightenment in seventeenth century,
humanists see themselves not merely as
HEDONISM stewards of the creation but as individuals
who are in control of themselves and the
The hedonists, for their part, see the end
world outside them. This is the spirit of
goal of life in acquiring pleasure. Pleasure
most scientists who thought that the world
has always been the priority of hedonists.
is a place and space for freely unearthing
For them, life is about obtaining and
the world in seeking for ways on how to
indulging in pleasure because life is limited.
improve the lives of its inhabitants.
The mantra of this school of thought is the
famous, “Eat, drink, and be merry for
tomorrow we die.” Led by Epicurus, this Technology allowed us to tinker with our sexuality.
school of thought also does not buy any Biologically male individuals can now undergo
notion of afterlife just like the materialists. medical operation if they so wish for sexual
reassignment. Breast implants are now available
and can be done with relative convenience if
STOICISM anyone wishes to have one. Hormones may also
be injected in order to alter the sexual chemicals in
Another school of thought led by Epicurus, the body.
the stoics espoused the idea that to
generate happiness, one must learn to
distance oneself and be apathetic. The Whether or not we agree with these technological
original term, apatheia, precisely means to advancements, these are all undertaken in the
be indifferent. For the stoics, happiness hopes of attaining the good life. The balance,
can only be attained by a careful practice however, between the good life, ethics, and
of apathy. We should, in this worldview, technology has to be attained.
adopt the fact that some things are not
within our control. The sooner we realize
this, the happier we can become. WHEN TECHNOLOGY AND HUMANITY
CROSS

THEISM
Most people find the meaning of their lives “TECHNOLOGY”
using God as a fulcrum of their existence. came from the Greek words technē and
The Philippines, as a predominantly logos which mean art and word,
Catholic country, is witness to how people respectively
base their life goals on beliefs that hinged means a discourse on arts (Buchanan,
on some form of supernatural reality called 2010)
heaven. The ultimate basis of happiness first appeared in the seventeenth century
for theists is the communion with God. The where the concept was only used to talk
 about the arts, specifically applied arts. believed to have this big fascination for
However, as technology progressed, the television. Most of the time, they watch
concept also started to have a wider range television during their free time or any time
of meaning where art is no longer the only of the day when they have nothing
topic included. Concepts like machine and important to do. In addition to this, Kantar
tools were also attached to the word Media also reported that in the Philippines,
“technology” which is the more popular the current count of households with
sense of the concept nowadays. television set already reached 15.135
enjoys such fame and glory because of the million (Noda, 2012). This number signifies
many different benefits it brings to mankind something, that is, television plays a great
allows people to listen to good music role in the lives of the people or in this case,
wherever they are the Filipinos.
allows them to communicate with their
loved ones anywhere in the world; but most
of all, it allows them to surf and play games TELEVISION
anytime, anywhere
Was a product of different experiments by
technology keeps on progressing due to
various people. Paul Gottlieb Nipkow, a
not only the changing times and
German student, in the late 1800s was
environment but also to the ever-
successful in his attempt to send images
progressing mind of mankind
through wires with the aid of a rotating
metal disk. This invention was then called
the “electric telescope” that had 18 lines of
TELEVISION SETS, MOBILE PHONES,
resolution. After some time, in 1907, two
COMPUTERS, AND HUMANITY
inventors, Alan Archibald Campbell-
A number of technological devices can be Swinton who was an English scientist and
easily found inside the home, the most Boris Rosing who was a Russian scientist,
accessible place to anyone. Having said created a new system of television by using
that, it can also be easily inferred that these the cathode ray tube in addition to the
technological devices are some of the most mechanical scanner system. This success
popular and most commonly used types of story gave rise to two types of television
devices across all age groups. Almost all systems, namely, mechanical and
households, if not all, own these types of electronic television (Jezek, n.d.). These
devices. To be more specific, these experiments inspired other scientists to
“celebrities” in the field of technology are improve the previous inventions, which led
television sets, mobile phones, and to the modern television people now have.
computers. People all over the world use However, it is important to remember that
these technologies every day to several scientists and several experiments
accomplish different purposes. were performed first before finally
achieving the modern television at present.

ACCORDING TO KANTAR MEDIA

Filipinos love to use their mobile phones
one of the most trusted television audience anywhere, anytime.
measurement providers, in the Philippines,
92 percent of urban homes and 70 percent They use it for different purposes other
of rural homes own at least one television than for communication. More than half of
set. It is for this reason why television the Filipino population own at least one
remains to be the ultimate medium for mobile phone regardless of type. In 2010,
advertisement placements (The Manila global research agency Synovate
Times, 2014). This survey simply shows conducted a survey and declared 67
that almost all Filipinos use this particular percent product ownership in the country.
type of device. In fact, Filipinos are In fact, it was also claimed that mobile
phones are considered a must-have laptop manufacturers come from offices,
among young Filipinos (ABS-CBN News, businesses, or schools where such devices
2010). To prove that Filipinos really love to have become part of their necessities.
use their mobile phones, the Ipsos Media
Atlas Philippines Nationwide Urban 2011-
2012 survey results showed that one in In 2010, 3.6 trillion was the estimated total value
every three Filipinos cannot live without a output of all manufacturing establishments. Semi-
mobile phone. In other words, 30 percent conductor devices and other electronic
of the Philippine urban population components took more than half of the total value
nationwide said that mobile phones are output of all manufacturing establishments. To be
necessities in life (Roa, 2012). Philippine more specific, 5.4 percent of the total value output
came from computers and peripheral equipment
streets are full of people using their mobile
and accessories (PSA, 2013). In line with the
phones. Not only this, there are some
growing number of computer and laptop sales,
Filipinos who even own more than one
there has also been a growing number of Internet
mobile phone. users in the Philippines. Although there have been
problems regarding the Internet providers, this
never hindered Filipinos from continuously using
MOBILE PHONES the Internet.
Have a very interesting background story.
On April 3, 1973, Martin Cooper, a senior
Just like television sets and mobile phones,
engineer at Motorola, made the world’s first
computers and laptops also have a long
mobile phone call. He called their rival background history of trial and error. It was
telecommunications company and properly Charles Babbage, a nineteenth-century English
informed them that he was making the call Mathematics professor, who designed the
from a mobile phone. The mobile phone Analytical Engine which was used as the basic
used by Cooper weighed 1.1 kilograms and framework of the computers even until the present
measured 228.6 x 127 x 44.4 mm. This time. In general, computers can be classified into
kind of device was capable of a 30-minute three generations. Each generation of the
talk time. However, it took 10 hours to computer was used for a certain period of time and
charge. In 1983, M30-minute talk time, Ho each gave people a new and improved version of
commercial mobile phone available to the the previous one (Steitz, n.d.).
public. It was known as the Motorola
DynaTAC 8000X (Goodwin, 2016)
Laptops have been available to the public for even
less time than personal computers. Before, the first
design of computer was so big that it could occupy
COMPUTERS AND LAPTOPS
whole floors of buildings. It was not long before
have also become part of many of the people started dreaming that they could bring their
Filipino households. There are some devices to any place they wished. They hoped that
Filipino families who own more than one someday it would be possible for these devices to
computer or laptop while some own at least be portable. It was believed that the transition from
a personal computer to a laptop was only a matter
one computer or laptop. However, the
of design, an improvement and a little deviation
number of computers or laptops sold per
from the standard design of a personal computer.
year may not be as high as the number of The first true portable computer was released in
mobile phones and television sets. This is April 1981. It was called the Osborne 1 (Orfano,
because of the relatively higher cost of 2011). From that moment on, the evolution of
computers and laptops. While it is true that laptops continued until the present time where
almost all Filipino families own at least one various designs and models are already available.
television set and a mobile phone, it is not
possible for all Filipino families to own at
least one computer or laptop. In fact, most A typical household owns at least four of the
of the profits gained by computer and following devices: a mobile phone (89%),
smartphone (53%), tablet (14%), desktop (39%), available. Other applications include music
laptop or netbooks (37%), and smart TV (4%) player, calendar, radio, television, and
(Philstar, 2013). These data prove the deep- photo editor, among others. These are just
seated fascination of Filipinos to different some of the additional features of mobiles
technological devices. phones in the present. These make this
particular technological device very
appealing to the masses. It is like an all-in-
Here are some facts about Filipinos and their use one device
of gadgets and the Internet (Rappler, n.d.):
very portable and convenient because it
Mobile phone subscription is at 119 million. can fit into any space, may it be inside the
Filipinos spend approximately 3.2 hours on pocket or bag.
mobile and 5.2 hours on desktop daily.
Currently, the Philippines has one of the
highest digital populations in the world. PERSONAL COMPUTERS AND LAPTOPS
There are now 47 million active Facebook
offer their own unique features that make
accounts in the Philippines.
them attractive
The Philippines is the fastest-growing
can be used to surf the Internet and
application market in Southeast Asia.
communicate
have features like calendar, calculator,
music player, movie player, camera, and
ROLES PLAYED BY THESE many more. However, for a lot of people,
TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS they prefer to do their job using either a
personal computer or a laptop than a
mobile phone
TELEVISION has wide keyboard than using a mobile
most used avenue by different advertising phone, especially when the mobile phone
companies not only in the Philippines but has a small screen
also all over the world. Various advertising have wide screens and separate
companies trust that television is still one of keyboards, although some mobile phones
the most used technological devices up can now be connected to a keyboard.
until today. However, it is important to note Another reason is that the availability of a
that these are just some of the roles played mouse or a touchpad made these two
by television technological devices easier to maneuver
it also serves as a recreational activity and than mobile phones
good stress reliever to most families, allow them to play with comfort and
specifically to Filipino families convenience. However, it cannot be denied
good platform for different propagandas that some would even prefer laptops over
and advocacies personal computers for the simple reason
good way to bond with one’s family that personal computers are not portable
members. and there are times when they need to
bring such devices to different places.

MOBILE PHONES
primarily used for communication
offer services like texting and calling
people use their mobile phones to surf the
Internet and to take pictures more than to
text or to call people. This is the reason why
more and more people all over the world
prefer to buy smartphones over the old
models where such features are not
 ETHICAL DILEMMA FACED BY THESE change and can greatly affect the way they
TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS view the world and the things around them

MOST PARENTS WOULD ARGUE THAT The word “responsibility” in the sense of being
THESE DEVICES MAKE THEIR CHILDREN accountable for and accountable to is very
LAZY AND UNHEALTHY appropriate to the ethics of technology because it
makes each and every person in the scientific-
This is because of the fact that people who technological development a proxy with reference
are fixated on these technological to one another. In other words, each person must
advancements start and end their day by indicate the priorities, values, norms, and
using such devices. They have a great principles that constitute the grounds for one’s
tendency to sit and chill all day long without actions and define one’s contribution to the
doing anything productive in their homes, scientific- technological event. The ethics of
thus making them unhealthy because they responsibility focuses on the positive rather than
do not just skip meals sometimes but also the negative. Instead of asking “What ought not to
be allowed?” ask “What ought to be allowed?” To
lack exercise or any bodily movements.
put it in another way, people who are part of the
Here, it can be inferred that these types of
scientific development ought to let the public know
people are already overly dependent on the good in their respective technological
these technological devices. For example, contribution/s. In this way, the people will have an
those who love to watch television shows Idea how the devices ought to be used in order to
stay in front of the television for more than maximize their positive results.
six hours a day while those who love to surf
the Internet or play computer games stay
on their laptops, computers, or mobile Going back to the first dilemma, it can be said that
phones for more than half a day. These the agents using the devices are the ones to be
people have the tendency to be unaware of blamed for the undesirable consequences,
the time because they are so engrossed namely, laziness and unhealthiness. However, it is
with the use of technological device. In fact, the assumption that the people in the scientific-
if they get disturbed, there is a great technological world have properly informed the
chance that they will get mad or annoyed. public of the positive tenor of their action in
Moreover, these are the same people who technology and the possible dangers of the misuse
of their technological contribution. Thus, the
are more likely to experience alienation
undesirable consequences are brought about by
because they no longer take time to get out
the misuse of the agent. Now, talking about
of their houses and mingle with other alienation, it can be concluded that the people in
people. the scientific-technological world are blameworthy
because they tell the people something that seems
positive but when examined closely, brings more
MORAL DILEMMA bad than good.

People, especially the children who are not

capable yet of rationally deciding for
On the second dilemma, the people in the scientific
themselves what is right or wrong, are world nor the children are blameworthy because
freely exposed to different things on first, the children are not yet capable of rationally
television, mobiles phones, laptops, or deciding for themselves what is good and what is
computer Because of the availability and bad. Second, even if creators of these
easy access to the Internet, they can easily technologies went out of their way to inform
search the web and go to different websites children of the pros and cons of these
without restrictions. This allows them to technological contributions, it would still be useless
see, read, or hear things which are not because the children have no capacity to
suitable for their very young age. This understand them yet. So in this dilemma, the ones
makes them very vulnerable to character to be blamed are the adults who allowed the
children to have access to such devices in the first
place without any supervision. It is the professional service robot or a service robot for
recklessness and overconfidence of the adults tha professional use
cause the character change in children.
service robot used for a commercial task,
usually operated by a properly trained
operator. Examples are cleaning robot for
ROBOTICS AND HUMANITY
public places, delivery robot in offices or
Another great product of the innovative hospitals, fire fighting robot, rehabilitation
minds of the people is the robot. Robots are robot, and surgery robot in hospitals. In this
now widely used. For example, there are context, an operator is a person designated
the so-called service robots. These to start, monitor, and stop the intended
particular robots do specific tasks but focus operation of a robot or a robot system.
mainly in assisting their masters in their
everyday tasks. The International
Federation of Robotics (IFR) and United GERMANY
Nations Economic Commission for Europe
was one of the first countries to develop
(UNECE) made it their task to formulate a
service robots. As part of the German
working definition for service robots. A
Federal Ministry of Education and
preliminary extract of the relevant definition
Research’s “Service Robotics Innovation
is (IFR, 2012):
Lead Initiative,” it sponsored a
collaborative project called DESIRE
(Deutsche Servicerobotik Initiative
ROBOT
Germany Service Robotics Initiative) which
actuated mechanism programmable in two was launched on October 1, 2005. DESIRE
or more axes with a degree of autonomy, has the following individual objectives
moving within its environment, to perform (DESIRE, 2009):
intended tasks. Autonomy in this context
means the ability to perform intended tasks To achieve a technological edge toward
based on current state and sensing without attaining key functions and components
human intervention. that are suited for everyday use

To create a reference architecture for

SERVICE ROBOT mobile manipulation

robot that performs useful tasks for humans To promote the convergence of
or equipment excluding industrial technologies through integration into a
automation application. Note: A robot may common technology platform
be classified according to its intended
application as an industrial robot or a To conduct pre-competition research and
service robot. development activities for new products
and technology transfer in start-up
enterprises in the field of service robotics
PERSONAL SERVICE ROBOT OR A
SERVICE ROBOT FOR PERSONAL USE
Some of the expected work to be performed by
service robot used for a noncommercial
DESIRE are the following:
task, usually by laypersons. Examples are
domestic servant robot, automated 1. “Clear up the kitchen table” all objects on
wheelchair, personal mobility assist robot, top of the kitchen table will be moved to
and pet exercising robot. where they belong;
2. “Fill the dishwasher” – the dirty dishes will
be sorted correctly into the dishwasher,
and
 3. “Clear up this room” – all objects that are developed a distinct fascination over
not in their proper places will be moved to robots.
where they belong (Mock, n.d.).

Just like people living in the society, robots also

The earliest conception of robots can be traced have their own set of rules and characteristics that
around 3000 B.C. from the Egyptians. Their water define what a good robot is. These laws were
clocks used human figurines to strike the hour formulated by Isaac Asimov back in the 1940s,
bells. This mechanical device was built to carry out when he was thinking of the ethical consequences
a specific physical task regularly. From that time of robots. These are the following (Stanford, n.d.):
on, different machines were already built that
displayed the same mechanism and
characteristics as the robots in the present. For LAW ONE:
example, there was a wooden pigeon that could
fly, a talking doll, steam-powered robots, and A robot may not injure a human being or,
hydraulically-operated statues that could speak through inaction, allow a human being to
and gesture. However, the earliest robots as come to harm.
people know them were created in the early 1950s
by George Devol. “Unimate” was his first invention
from the words “Universal Automation.” LAW TWO:
Unfortunately, his attempt to sell his product to the
industry did not succeed. After Unimate, several A robot must obey the orders given it by
robots were also invented which were better human beings except where such orders
versions of the previous ones (Stanford, n.d.). Ever would conflict with the First Law.
since, people never stopped their quest in the field
of robotics.
LAW THREE:

ROLES PLAYED BY ROBOTICS A robot must protect its own existence as

long as such protection does not conflict
They are primarily used to ease the with the First or Second Law.
workload of mankind
invented to make life more efficient and
less stressful ETHICAL DILEMMA/S FACED BY
perform complicated activities which ROBOTICS
human beings are incapable of doing
they perform the simplest tasks at home so One of the dilemmas faced by robots is
that their masters can perform the complex safety. Who should be held accountable if
ones without stressing themselves over the someone’s safety is compromised by a
simple tasks robot? Who should be blamed, the robot,
there are also robots which are made for the agent using the robot, or the
pleasure. To be more specific, these types maker/inventor of the robot? It is important
of robots perform activities to entertain to know who should be blamed and who
people. They can usually be found in should be held responsible if such thing
amusement parks or exhibits. In addition, happens.
there are also some robots which were Another ethical dilemma faced by robots is
made to serve as toys. They also perform the emotional component. This may seem
different activities but they are usually a little absurd as of the moment, but looking
child- friendly. Other examples of robots at how fast technology progresses
are those which can be seen in movies. nowadays, it is not completely impossible
One of the reasons why robots are very for robots to develop emotions (Evans,
famous is because of movies. A number of 2007).
local and national movies were inspired by
robots. This goes to show that people have
In the field of robotics, there are the so-called For the second dilemma, it is just right for the
partial autonomy and full autonomy. Partial robots to be given their own set of rights should
autonomy includes active human-robot they develop the ability to feel different kinds of
interaction while full autonomy excludes active emotion. It can be argued that the same thing
human-robot interaction. In other words, a robot happened with animals. Before, animals did not
with full autonomy can perform actions or activities have their own set of rights because people
even without a master telling it what should be believed that they were not capable of having
done or what should be performed next (IFR, emotions. However, after years of testing and
2012). experimenting, it was concluded that animals are
indeed capable of emotions. It is for this reason
that people decided to give them rights that are
Using Asimov’s laws for robots, it can be due to them. The same should be done to robots
concluded that robots are the laws specified. They without any reservations. Should that time come,
ethical mostly because the laws formulated by they ought to be treated differently and they ought
Asimov ensure the safety of not only the users of to have new laws to follow in order to
the technology but also the people around him accommodate the new characteristic they have
Remember that these service robots are already developed.
available to the public thus, they can already be
found inside the homes. Having said that, the
safety of not only the owner of the technology but THE INFORMATION AGE
also all the people inside the house should be the
priority more than anything else. In other words, Highly modernized, automated, data-driven, and
the service robots only follow what their masters technologically advanced-these best describe our
tell them to do with great consideration to the laws society nowadays, as evidenced by how
formulated by Asimov. However, if the agent using information could be transferred or shared quickly.
the technology misuses the robot to achieve The different areas of society have been
personal agendas, then without a doubt, the agent influenced tremendously such as communication,
should be held accountable for any consequences economics, industry, health, and the environment.
it may bring. It is important to note that this is under Despite our gains due to the growing development
the assumption that the robot strictly followed the of information technology, the rapid upgrade of
laws specified without any form of deviation. information also has disadvantages.

If the problems arise when the robot deviates from Life is accompanied by endless transmission of
the laws specified, then the maker or the inventor information that takes place within and outside the
of the machine should be blameworthy. It just human body. According to Webster’s
means that the robot was not programmed very Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary, information
well because it violated the laws. Other problems is “knowledge communicated or obtained
may arise when the machine develops the ability concerning a specific fact or circumstance.”
to think for itself. In this case, the one that should Hence, information is a very important tool for
be blame can both be the maker or inventor and survival.
the robot itself. This is because, in the first place,
the maker gave the robot the capacity to think for
itself so he should be very much aware of its INFORMATION AGE
possible consequences. To put it in another way,
“period starting in the last quarter of the
the maker programmed the robot in such a way
that it can already think for itself even without an 20th century when information became
active participation from a human being. In effortlessly accessible through publications
addition, since the robot thinks for itself, whatever and through the management of
decision it makes and whatever consequence it information by computers and computer
may bring, the robot itself should be held networks” ([Link], n.d.)
responsible. means of conveying symbolic information
(e.g., writing, math, other codes) among
humans has evolved with increasing speed
 also called the Digital Age and the New computer
Media Age because It was associated with program
the development of computers. 1837 Invention of the telegraph
in Great Britain and the
United States
1861 Motion pictures were
JAMES R. MESSENGER projected onto a screen
1876 Dewey Decimal system
proposed the Theory of Information Age in
was introduced
1982, “the Information Age is a true new 1877 Eadweard Muybridge
age based upon the interconnection of demonstrated high-
computers via telecommunications, with speed photography
these information systems operating on 1899 First magnetic recordings
both a real-time and as-needed basis. were released
Furthermore, the primary factors driving 1902 Motion picture special
effects were used
this new age forward are convenience and
1906 Lee DeForest invented
user-friendliness which, in turn, will create the electronic amplifying
user dependence.” tube (triode)

1923 Television camera tube

HISTORY was invented by Zvorkyn
1926 First practical sound
Year Event movie
3000 BC Sumerian writing system 1939 Regularly scheduled
used pictographs to television broadcasting
represent words began in the US
2900 BC Beginnings of Egyptian 1940s Beginnings of
hieroglyphic writing information science as a
1300 BC Tortoise shell and oracle discipline
bone writing were used 1945 Vannevar Bush foresaw
500 BC Papyrus roll was used the invention of hypertext
220 BC Chinese small seal 1946 ENIAC computer was
writing was developed developed
100 AD Book (parchment codex) 1948 Birth of field-of-
105 AD Woodblock printing and information theory
paper was invented by proposed by Claude E.
the Chinese Shannon
1455 Johannes Gutenberg 1957 Planar transistor was
invented the printing developed by Jean
press using movable Hoerni
metal type 1958 First integrated circuit
1755 Samuel Johnson’s 1960s Library of Congress
dictionary standardized developed LC MARC
English spelling (machine- readable
1802 The Library of code)
Congress was 1969 UNIX operating system
established was developed, which
Invention of the could handle multitasking
carbon arc lamp 1971 Intel introduced the first
1824 Research on persistence microprocessor chip
of vision published 1972 Optical laserdisc was
1830s ❖ First viable developed by Philips and
design for a MCA
digital computer 1974 MCA and Philips agreed
❖ Augusta Lady on a standard videodisc
Byron writes the encoding format
world’s first 1975 Altair Microcomputer Kit
was released: first
 personal computer for 3. Selection is a viewpoint. Choose multiple
the public sources for your information if you want to
1977 RadioShack introduced receive a more balanced view of reality.
the first complete 4. The media sells what the culture buys. In
personal computer
other words, information is driven by
1984 Apple Macintosh
computer was introduced cultural priorities.
Mid 1980s Artificial intelligence was 5. The early word gets the perm. The first
separated from media channel to expose an issue often
information science defines the context, terms, and attitudes
1987 Hypercard was surrounding it.
developed by Bill 6. You are what you eat and so is your brain.
Atkinson recipe box
Do not draw conclusions unless all ideas
metaphor
1991 Four hundred fifty and information are presented to you.
complete works of 7. Anything in great demand will be
literature on one CD- counterfeited. The demand for incredible
ROM was released knowledge, scandals, and secrets is ever-
January 1997 RSA (encryption and present; hence, many events are
network security fabricated by tabloids, publicists, or other
software) Internet
security code cracked for agents of information fraud.
a 48-bit number 8. Ideas are seen as controversial. It is almost
certainly impossible to make any assertion
that will not find some supporters and some
As man evolved, information and its dissemination
detractors.
has also evolved in many ways. Eventually, we no
9. Undead information walks ever on.
longer kept them to ourselves; instead, we share
Rumors, lies, disinformation, and gossips
them and manage them in different means.
Information got ahead of us. It started to grow at a never truly die down. They persist and
rate we were unprepared to handle. Because of continue to circulate.
the abundance of information, it was difficult to 10. Media presence creates the story. People
collect and manage them starting in the 1960s and behave much differently from the way they
1970s. During the 1980s, real angst set in. would if being filmed when the media are
Richard Wurman called it “Information present, especially film news or television
Anxiety.” In the 1990s, information became the media.
currency in the business world. Information was 11. The medium selects the message.
the preferred medium of exchange and the Television is mainly pictorial, partially aural,
information managers served as information and slightly textual, so visual stories are
officers. In the present generation, there is no emphasized fires, chases, and disasters.
doubt that information has turned out to be a 12. The whole truth is a pursuit. The
commodity, an overdeveloped product, mass- information that reaches us is usually
produced, and unspecialized. Soon, we become selected, verbally charged, filtered,
overloaded with it. slanted, and sometimes, fabricated. What
is neglected is often even more Important
than what is included.
In his article “Truths of the Information Age”
(n.d.), Robert Harris detailed some facts on the
Information Age.
COMPUTER
1. Information must compete. There is a need
among the most important contributions of
for information to stand out and be
advances in the Information Age to society
recognized in the increasing clutter.
an electronic device that stores and
2. Newer is equated with truer. We forgot the processes data (information)
truth that any fact or value can endure. runs on a program that contains the exact,
step-by-step directions to solve a problem
(Ushistory. Org, 2017).
 PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANTS (PDAS)
TYPES OF COMPUTER tightly integrated computers that usually
have no keyboards but rely on a touch
Computers are associated with numerous
terms and descriptions. Most people screen for user input
suggest the dimensions, intended use, or typically smaller than a paperback,
the computer’s power. While the term lightweight, and battery- powered
“computer” can apply to virtually any device ([Link], 2017)
that has a microprocessor in it, most people
think of a computer as a device that
receives input from the user through a SERVER
mouse (hand-guided directions tool) or
keyboard, processes it in some fashion, refers to a computer that has been
and presents the result on screen. improved to provide network services to
other computers
usually boast powerful processors, tons of
PERSONAL COMPUTER (PC) memory, and large hard drives
([Link], 2017)
It is a single-user instrument
first known as microcomputers since they
were a complete computer but built on a
MAINFRAMES
smaller scale than the enormous systems
operated by most businesses huge computer systems that can fill an
entire room
used especially by large firms to describe
DESKTOP COMPUTER the large, expensive machines that
process millions of transactions every day
described as a PC that is not designed for term “mainframe” has been replaced by
portability enterprise server. Although some
assumption with a desktop is that it will be supercomputers are single computer
set up in a permanent spot, A workstation systems, most comprise multiple, high-
is simply a desktop computer that has a performance, parallel computers working
more powerful processor, additional as a single system ([Link], 2017
memory, and enhanced capabilities for
performing special group of tasks, such as
3D graphics or game development. Most
WEARABLE COMPUTERS
desktops offer more storage, power, and
versatility than their portable versions involve materials that are usually
([Link], 2017) integrated into cell phones, watches, and
other small objects or places. They perform
common computer applications such as
LAPTOPS databases. Email, multimedia, and
schedulers ([Link], 2017).
portable computers that integrate the
essentials of a desktop computer in a
battery-powered package, which are THE WORLD WIDE WEB (INTERNET)
somewhat larger than a typical hardcover
book
commonly called notebooks
CLAUDE E. SHANNON
American Mathematician who was
considered as the “Father of Information
Theory”
 worked at Bell Laboratories and at age 32, ELECTRONIC MAIL, OR EMAIL
he published a paper proposing that
information can be quantitatively encoded was a suitable way to send a message to
as a sequence of ones and zeroes. fellow workers, business partners, or
friends.
Messages could be sent and received at
the convenience of the individual. A letter
INTERNET
that took several days to arrive could be
worldwide system of interconnected read in minutes. Internet service providers
networks that facilitate data transmission like America Online and CompuServe set
among innumerable computers up electronic chat rooms. These were open
developed during the 1970s by the areas of cyberspace where interested
Department of Defense parties could join in a conversation with
In case of an attack, military advisers perfect strangers. “Surfing the net” became
suggested the advantage of being able to a pastime in and of itself ([Link],
operate on one computer from another 2017):
terminal.
In the early days, the Internet was used
mainly by scientists to communicate with Consequently, companies whose businesses are
other scientists. The Internet remained built on digitized information have become
under government control until 1984 valuable and powerful in a relatively short period of
(Rouse, 2014). time; the current Information Age has spawned its
own breed of wealthy influential brokers, from
Microsoft’s Bill Gates to Apple’s Steve Jobs to
One early problem faced by Internet users was Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg.
speed. Phone lines could only transmit information
at a limited rate. The development of fiber-optic
cables allowed for billions of bits of APPLICATIONS OF COMPUTERS IN
information to be received every minute. SCIENCE AND RESEARCH
Companies like Intel developed faster
microprocessors so personal computers could One of the significant applications of computers for
process the incoming signals at a more rapid rate science and research is evident in the field of
([Link], 2017). bioinformatics.

SERGEY BRIN AND LARRY PAGE BIOINFORMATICS

directors of a Stanford research project application of information technology to store,

built a search engine that listed results to organize, and analyze vast amount of
reflect page popularity when they biological data which is available in the form of
determined that the most popular result sequences and structures of proteins the
would frequently be the most usable. building blocks of organisms and nucleic acids-
After talking with family, friends, and other the information carrier (Madan, n.d.).
investors into contributing $1 million, the
researchers launched their company in
1998. While the initial databases of protein sequences
were maintained at individual laboratories, the
development of a consolidated formal database.
GOOGLE Known as SWISS-PROT protein sequence
world’s most popular search engine, database, was initiated in 1986. It now has about
accepting more than 200 million queries 70,000 protein sequences from more than 5,000
daily. model organisms, a small fraction of all known
organisms. The enormous variety of divergent
data resources is now available for study and
research by both academic institutions and
industries. These are made available as public
domain information in the larger interest of high-power. Computing workstations and software
research community through the Internet like Insight. This profound application of
([Link]) and CD-ROMs (on bioinformatics in genome sequence has led to a
request from [Link]). These databases are new area in pharmacology- Pharmacogenomics,
constantly updated with additional entries (Madan, where potential targets for drug development are
n.d.). hypothesized from the genome sequences.
Molecular modeling, which requires a lot of
calculations, has become faster due to the
Computers and software tools are widely used for advances in computer processors and its
generating these databases and to identify the architecture (Madan, n.d.),
function of proteins, model the structure of
proteins, determine the coding (useful) regions of
nucleic acid sequences, find suitable drug In plant biotechnology, bioinformatics is found to
compounds from a large pool, and optimize the be useful in the areas of identifying diseases
drug development process by predicting possible resistance genes and designing plants with high
targets. Some of the software tools which are nutrition value (Madan, n.d.).
handy in the analysis include: BLAST (used for
comparing sequences); Annotator (an
interactive genome analysis tool); and HOW TO CHECK THE RELIABILITY OF
GeneFinder (tool to identify coding regions and WEB SOURCES
splice sites) (Madan. N.d.).
The Internet contains a vast collection of highly
valuable information but it may also contain
The sequence information generated by the unreliable, biased information that mislead people.
human genome research, Initiated in 1988, has The following guidelines can help us check the
now been stored as a primary information source reliability of web sources that we gather. It is
for future applications in medicine. The available noteworthy to consider and apply the following
data is so huge that if compiled in books, the data guidelines to avoid misinformation. (Lee College
would run into 200 volumes of 1,000 pages each Library, n.d.)
and reading alone (ignoring understanding factor)
would require 26 years working around the clock.
For a population of about five billion human beings WHO IS THE AUTHOR OF THE
with two individuals differing in three million bases, ARTICLE/SITE?
the genomic sequence difference database would
How to find out?
have about 15,000,000 billion entries. The present
challenge to handle such huge volume of data is to Look for an “About” or “More About the Author”
improve database design, develop software for link at the top, bottom, or sidebar of the
database access, and manipulation and device webpage. Some pages will have a corporate
data-entry procedures to compensate for the author rather than a single person as an
varied computer procedures and systems used in author. If no information about the author(s) of
different laboratories. The much-celebrated the page is provided, be suspicious.
complete human genome sequence which was
formally announced on the 26th of June 2000 ✔ Does the author provide his or her credentials?
involved more than 500 x 1018 (500 million trillion)
✔ What type of expertise does he or she have on
calculations during the process of assembling the
the subject he or she is writing about? Does he or
sequences alone. This can be considered as the
she indicate what his or her education is?
b“ggest exercise in the history of computational
biology (Madan, n.d.). ✔ What type of experience does he or she have?
Should you trust his or her knowledge of the
subject?
Moreover, from the pharmaceutical industry’s point
of view, bioinformatics is the key to rational drug
discovery. It reduces the number of trials in the
screening of drug compounds and in identifying
potential drug targets for a particular disease using
Try searching on the Internet for information about WHO IS THE INTENDED AUDIENCE?
the author.
Scholars or the general public?
✔ What kinds of websites are associated with the Which age group is it written for?
author’s name? Is he or she affiliated with any Is it aimed at people from a particular
educational institution? geographic area?
Is it aimed at members of a particular
✔ Do commercial sites come up? Do the websites profession or with specific training?
associated with the author give you any clues to
particular biases the author might have?
WHAT IS THE QUALITY OF INFORMATION
PROVIDED ON THE WEBSITE?
WHO PUBLISHED THE SITE?
Timeliness: When was the website first
How to find out?
published? Is it regularly updated? Check
✓ Look at the domain name of the website that will for dates at the bottom of each page on the
tell you who is hosting the site. For instance, the site.
Lee College Library website is: [Link] Does the author cite sources? Just as in
library. The domain name is “[Link].” This tells print sources, web sources that cite their
you that the library website is hosted by Lee sources are considered more reliable.
College. What type of other sites does the website
link to? Are they reputable sites?
✓ Search the domain name at What types of sites link to the website you
[Link] The site provides are evaluating? Is the website being cited
information about the owners of registered domain by others?
names. What is the organization’s main purpose?
Check the organization’s main website, if it has
one. Is it educational? Commercial? Is it a EXAMPLES OF USEFUL AND RELIABLE
reputable organization? WEB SOURCES
✔ Do not ignore the suffix on the domain name (the 1. AFA e-Newsletter (Alzheimer’s Foundation
three-letter part that comes after the “.”). The suffix of America newsletter)
is usually (but not always) descriptive of what type 2. American Memory - the Library of
of entity hosts the website. Keep in mind that it is
Congress historical digital collection.
possible for sites to obtain suffixes that are
3. [Link] Great Books Online - a
misleading. Here are some
collection of free e-books including fictions,
examples: .edu = educational nonfictions, references, and verses
4. Chronicling America - search and view
.com = commercial
pages from American newspapers from
.mil = military 1880-1922.
.gov = government 5. Cyber Bullying - a free collection of e-books
from ebrary plus additional reports and
.org = nonprofit documents to help hetter understand,
prevent and take action against this
growing concern.
WHAT IS THE MAIN PURPOSE OF THE 6. Drug information websites:
SITE? WHY DID THE AUTHOR WRITE IT National Library of Medicine’s Medline Plus
AND WHY DID THE PUBLISHER POST IT? [Link]
PDRhealth
To sell a product? 7. Global Gateway: World Culture &
As a personal hobby? Resources (from the Library of Congress)
As public service? 8. Google Books
To further scholarship on a topic?
9. [Link]
To provide general information on a topic?
10. History sites with primary documents:
To persuade you of a particular point of view?
 AMDOCS: Documents for the study of It uses visualization technology like pie
American history charts, maps, graphs, and scatter plots to
Avalon Project: Documents in Law, History provide data.
and Diplomacy (Yale Law School) 24. Virtual Reference - selected web resources
Internet Modern History Sourcebook: compiled by the Library of Congress.
Colonial Latin America
Teacher Oz’s Kingdom of History
11. Illinois Digital Archives - the Illinois State
One can also visit the university library and seek
Library working with libraries, museums,
help from librarians as they are knowledgeable and
and historical societies in Illinois provides the library has a rich collection of online library
this collection of materials related to Illinois resources that are very useful for academic and
history. research purposes.
12. Internet Archive – a digital library of Internet
sites and other cultural artifacts in digital
form. BIODIVERSITY AND THE HEALTHY
13. Internet Archive for CARLI digitized SOCIETY
resources
14. Internet Public Library Decrease in biodiversity is eminent
15. ipl2 - a merger of Librarians’ Internet Index worldwide. Vertebrates fell to 60% from
and Internet Public Library. Special interest the 1970s due to human causes. It is
may include the “Literary Criticisms” page projected that by 2020, wildlife decline
which can be found after clicking on the will be 67% of the present number. The
“Special Collections” link. World Wide Fund for Nature and
16. Librarians’ Internet Index Zoological Society of London reported
17. Making of America - a digital library of an annual decrease in wildlife by 2%.
primary sources in American social history. A major cause is human population
18. Maps - from the University of Texas at which has doubled in number
Austin collection. Includes historical and since 1960 to 7.4 billion. Humans have
thematic maps. industrialized the natural habitat of
19. NationMaster - a massive central data wildlife as well as marine life. Leaving
source and a handy way to graphically these creatures with no place to live
compare nations. It is a vast compilation of would eventually cause their deaths.
data from such sources as the CIA World Marco Lambertini, the General
Factbook, UN, and OECD. Director of WWF International,
20. Nursing sites: described that the disappearance of
AHRQ ([Link]) wildlife is at an unprecedented rate.
National Guidelines Clearinghouse Earth might enter the sixth mass
([Link]) extinction event according to experts.
PubMed ([Link]) Mass extinction is described as the
21. Project Gutenberg - the first and largest disappearance of species at a rate of
single collection of free electronic books 1,000 faster than usual. Moreover the
with currently over 20,000 e-books disappearance of species in a certain
available. environment causes an imbalance in
22. Shmoop - literature, US history, and poetry the ecosystem, producing more chaotic
information written primarily by PhD and changes that harm the entire
masters students from top universities like ecosystem ([Link], 2016).
Stanford, Berkeley, Harvard, and Yale.
23. StateMaster - a unique statistical database
which allows you to research and compare
a multitude of different data on US states
using various primary sources such as the
US Census Bureau, the FBI, and the
National Center for Educational Statistics.
 BIODIVERSITY AND ECOSYSTEM services that we acquire from the ecosystem.
Somehow, there are ways and processes in
the ecosystem that are not apparent nor
BIODIVERSITY appreciated by us, human beings. Think about
the need to drink clean and fresh water, the
defined as the vast variety of life forms need to eat healthy vegetables and food, or
in the entire Earth. the need of man to transport which makes him
encompasses all kinds of life forms, rely on fuel. All of these are human needs that
from the single-celled organisms to the are answered and provided by our ecosystem.
largest multi-celled organisms. Its Thus, if we fail to keep the process of taking
definition is in the structural and care of the ecosystem, it is us who are actually
functional perspective and not as putting our lives at risk. Significant decline in
individual species. biodiversity has direct human impact when
"the variability among living organisms ecosystem in its insufficiency can no longer
from all sources, including terrestrial, provide the physical as well as social needs of
marine and other aquatic ecosystems human beings. Indirectly, changes in the
and the ecological complexes of which ecosystem affect livelihood, income, and on
they are part; this includes diversity occasion, may even cause political conflict
within species, between species, and of (WHO, n.d.)
ecosystems
source of the essential goods and
ecological services that constitute the
CHANGES IN BIODIVERSITY
source of life for all and it has direct
consumptive value in food, agriculture, A change in biodiversity could have
medicine, and in industry." (Villaggio erratic effects not only in wildlife or
Globale, 2009) marine life but also in human beings.
For example, humans inhabiting the
Understanding biodiversity within the concept
forest would disturb the natural order of
of ecosystem needs a thorough study on the
life. Trees and plants would be affected
relationship of the biotic, the living
in the land- clearing operations where
organisms and the abiotic, nonliving
the houses would be built. The animals,
organisms. Interdisciplinary approach is
insects, and all types of life forms in the
needed to study the ecosystem. Biodiversity
cleared area would either be displaced
plays a major role in this natural dynamics. For
or most likely be killed.
example, a large number of golden snails in a
The loss of these life forms could
certain area of a rice field can help predict a
affect the entire ecosystem
low production of rice harvest, since eggs of
governing that environment. The
the golden snails are considered pest for rice
food chain might be damaged
plant. On a positive view, the larger number of
when our ecosystem is not well taken
different species in a certain area can be a
care of, biodiversity encounters
predictor of sustainable life in that area.
changes that may impact human
Sustainability of the ecosystem ensures a
health on such different levels.
better survival rate against any natural
disaster. Therefore, we, as human inhabitants
of the ecosystem, must preserve and THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY
conserve the biodiversity of all creatures.
There are major threats to biodiversity that
were identified by the United Nations'
In simpler terms, it is true that people will
Environment Programme (WHO, n.d.).
always depend on biodiversity on the
These are the following:
wholeness of our being and in our
everyday lives. More so, our health will 1. Habitat loss and destruction. Major
ultimately depend upon the products and contributing factor is the inhabitation of
 human beings and the use of land for many that we do not. It is apparent that
economic gains. humankind is willing to sustain a great
2. Alterations in ecosystem deal of biodiversity loss if there are
composition. Alterations and sudden concomitant benefits to society, we
changes, either within species groups hope they are net benefits. In many
or within the environment, could begin cases, the benefits seem to accrue to a
to change entire ecosystems. few individuals only, with net societal
Alterations in ecosystems are a critical loss. However, it is extremely difficult to
factor contributing to species and estimate the future costs of losses in
habitat loss. biodiversity or of environmental
3. Over-exploitation. Over-hunting, damage (Rainforest Conservation
overfishing, or over-collecting of Fund, 2017).
species can quickly lead to its decline.
Changing consumption patterns of
TILMAN
humans is often cited as the key reason
for this unsustainable exploitation of "The Earth will retain its most striking
natural resources. feature, its biodiversity, only if humans
4. Pollution and contamination. have the prescience to do so. This will
Biological systems respond slowly to occur, it seems, only if we realize the
changes in their surrounding extent to which we use biodiversity
environment. Pollution and (Rainforest Consevation Fund, 2017)."
contamination cause irreversible
damage to species and varieties.
5. Global climate change. Both climate NUTRITIONAL IMPACT OF BIODIVERSITY
variability and climate change cause
biodiversity loss. Species and According to the World Health
populations may be lost permanently if Organization, biodiversity is a vital
they are not provided with enough time element of a human being's nutrition
to adapt to changing climatic because of its influence to food
conditions. production. Biodiversity is a major
factor that contributes to sustainable
food production for human beings. A
CONSEQUENCES OF BIODIVERSITY society or a population must have
LOSS access to a sufficient variety of
the basic concept about biodiversity nutritious food as it is a determinant of
loss was from Charles Darwin and their health as human beings.
Alfred Russel Wallace.
Intact ecosystems function best since
the organisms composing them are Nutrition and biodiversity are linked at many
specialized to function in that levels: the ecosystem, with food production
ecosystem to capture, transfer, utilize as an ecosystem service; the species in the
and, ultimately, lose both energy and ecosystem; and the genetic diversity
nutrients. within species. Nutritional composition
The particular species making up an between foods and among
ecosystem determine its productivity, varieties/cultivars/breeds of the same food can
affect nutrient cycles and soil contents, differ dramatically, affecting micronutrient
and influence environmental conditions availability in the diet. Healthy local diets, with
such as water cycles, weather patterns, adequate average levels of nutrients intake,
climate, and other nonbiotic aspects. necessitates maintenance of high biodiversity
The loss of biodiversity has many levels. Intensified and enhanced food
consequences that we understand, and production through irrigation, use of fertilizer,
plant protection (pesticides), or the
introduction of crop varieties and cropping between human health and biological diversity
patterns affect biodiversity and thus impact is at risk.
global nutritional status and human health.
Habitat simplification, species loss, and
species succession often enhance ENVIRONMENT-RELATED ILLNESSES
communities, vulnerabilities as a function of
environmental receptivity to ill health Some human illnesses that are found to be
(WHO, 2007). related with its environment include
Parkinson's disease, heart disease,
cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease, asthma, diabetes, obesity,
HEALTH, BIOLOGY, AND BIODIVERSITY
occupational injuries, dysentery, arthritis,
Almost all living organisms are dependent to malaria, and depression.
their environment to live and reproduce. Basic
needs of living organisms such as air, water, By contrast, activities that promote health and
food, and habitat are provided by its extend human life could have adverse
environment. The evolution of human beings environmental effects. For example, food
was due to the improved access to these basic production causes environmental damage
needs. Advances in agriculture, sanitation, from pesticides and fertilizers, soil salinization,
water treatment, and hygiene have had a far waste produced by livestock, carbon
greater impact on human health than medical emissions from food manufacturing and
technology. transportation, deforestation, and overfishing.
Health care facilities also have adverse
Although the environment sustains human life, environmental impacts. Hospitals use large
it can also cause diseases. Lack of basic quantities of electricity and fossil fuels and
necessities is a significant cause of human produce medical wastes. To prevent some
mortality. diseases, it may be necessary to alter the
environment. For example, malaria was
Environmental hazards increase the risk of eradicated in the United States and other
cancer, heart disease, asthma, and many developed nations in the 1940s and 50s as a
other illnesses. These hazards can be result of draining wetlands and spraying DDT
physical, such as pollution, toxic chemicals, to kill mosquitoes. A reduction in mortality from
and food contaminants, or they can be social, starvation or disease can lead to
such as dangerous work, poor housing overpopulation, which stresses the
conditions, urban sprawl, and poverty. Unsafe environment in many different ways-
drinking water and poor sanitation and increasing use of fossil fuels, clearing of land,
hygiene are responsible for a variety of generating pollution and waste, and so on
infectious diseases, such as schistosomiasis, (Rensik & Portier, 2017).
diarrhea, cholera, meningitis, and gastritis.
In 2015, approximately 350,000 children Interestingly, according to experts, climate
under the age of five (mostly in the developing change could also have a serious impact on
world) died from diarrheal diseases related to human health and could deteriorate farming
unsafe drinking water, and systems and reduce nutrients in some foods.
approximately 1.8 billion people used drinking In this case, biodiversity increases resilience,
water contaminated with feces. More than two thus helping adjust to new environmental
billion people lacked access to basic conditions. Safeguarding of coral reefs, for
sanitation. instance, is essential to reduce the risk of
floods, as this extraordinary ecosystem can
The interrelation between human health and reduce wave energy by 97%, thus protecting
biological diversity is considerable and over 100 million people all over the world.
complex. With the current biodiversity loss at
unprecedented rates, the delicate balance Relationships between human health and the
environment raise many ethical, social, and the workplace to minimize impact to the
legal dilemmas by forcing people to choose society. The decision-making process should
among competing values. Many of the issues be fair, open, and democratic, so that people
at the intersection of health and the who will be affected by environmental risks
environment have to do with managing have a voice in these deliberations and can
benefits and risks. For example, pesticides make their concerns known (Rensik &
play an important role in increasing crop Portier, 2017).
yields, but they can also pose hazards to
human health and the environment. When drafting and implementing
Alternatives to pesticide use create trade-offs environmental health regulations, it is
in health. The extreme action of stopping all important to consider vulnerable
pesticide uses could significantly reduce subpopulations. A vulnerable subpopulation is
agricultural productivity, leading to food a group with an increased susceptibility to the
shortages and increased food prices which adverse effects of an environmental risk
would, in turn, increase starvation in some factor, due to their age, genetics, health
parts of the world. Public health authorities status, or some other condition. If an
have opted to regulate the use of pesticides to environmental regulation is designed to
enhance food production while minimizing protect average members of the population, it
damage to the environment and human may fail to adequately protect vulnerable
health. Energy production and use help subpopulations. Justice demands that we take
sustain human life, but it can also pose care of people who are vulnerable. However,
hazards to human health and the environment, almost everyone in the population has an
such as air and water pollution, oil spills, and above-average susceptibility to at least one
destruction of habitats (Rensik & environmental risk factor. Since providing
Portier, 2017). additional protection to everyone would be
costly and impractical, protections must be
No issue demands greater care in balancing meted out carefully and the populations who
benefits and risks than global warming. A are vulnerable to a particular environmental
significant percentage of global climate risk factor must be defined clearly (Rensik &
change is due to the human production of Portier, 2017).
greenhouse gases. Climate change is likely to
cause tremendous harm to the environment In addition to this, various public health
and human health, but taking steps to strategies pit the rights of individuals against
drastically reduce greenhouse gases could the good of society, such as mandatory
have adverse consequences for global, treatment, vaccination, or diagnostic testing;
national, and local economies. For example, isolation and quarantine; and disease
greatly increasing taxes on fossil fuels would surveillance. The owner of a coal-burning
encourage greater fuel efficiency and lower power plant must deal with many laws
carbon dioxide emissions, but it would also concerning the operation of the plant,
increase the price of transportation, which workplace safety, and carbon emissions. A
would lead to widespread inflation and developer who plans to build 150 new homes
reduced consumer spending power. Managing with land he has purchased may also have to
benefits and risks also raises social justice deal with laws concerning storm drainage,
concerns. In general, people with lower socio- water and sewage lines, gas lines, sidewalks,
economic status have greater exposure to and so on. Restrictions on property rights are
certain harmful environmental conditions in justified to protect human health and the
their homes or at work, such as lead, mercury, environment. However, opponents of these
pesticides, toxic chemicals, or air and water restrictions argue that they are often excessive
pollution. Communities and nations should or not adequately supported by scientific
wisely choose a site for a factory, a power evidence (Rensik & Portier, 2017).
plant, or waste dump, or regulating safety in
Human rights issues also come up with NANOTECHNOLOGY
research on environmental health that
Application of nanoscience leading to
involves human subjects. For such research to
the use of new nanomaterials and
be ethical, human subjects must give consent,
nanosize components in useful
and great care must be taken to ensure that
products
they understand that they can opt out of the
research project. Since the late 1990s, some
pesticide companies have tested their
products on human subjects to gather data to ORIGIN OF NANOTECHNOLOGY
submit to the government for regulatory The earliest systematics discussion of
purposes. Some commentators charge that nanotechnology is considered to be a
these experiments are unethical because they speech given by Richard Feynman in
place people at unacceptably high risk without 1959. He discussed the importance of
a clear benefit to society. Others have argued manipulating and controlling things on a
that the experiments, if properly designed and small scale and how they could tell us
implemented, could produce important much of great interest about the
benefits to society by providing useful strange phenomena that occur in
knowledge about the effects of pesticides that complex situations
lead to stronger regulations (Rensik & The term nanotechnology was used
Portier, 2017). first by the Japanese scientist Norio
Taniguchi in a 1974 paper on
With these in mind, a mitigating plan and a production technology that creates
workable plan of action should be studied in objects
order to not compromise biodiversity, while at The early 2000s also saw the
the same time, promote good health among beginnings of commercial applications
the society. of nanotechnology, although these
were limited to bulk application of
nanomaterials
THE NANO WORLD Silver nano platform for using silver –
nanoparticles as an antibacterial agent,
nanoparticle- based transparent
NANOMETER sunscreens, and carbon nanotubes for
stain-resistant textiles.
Unit of length in the metric system
Equal to one billionth in a meter
HOW DOES NANOTECHNOLOGY WORK?
TECHNOLOGY Nanotechnology is the understanding
and control of matter at the nanometer
Machinery and equipment developed
scale, where unique phenomena
from the application of scientific
enable novel applications.
knowledge
Encompassing nanoscale science,
engineering, technology, and
nanotechnology involves imaging,
NANOSCIENCE measuring, modeling, and manipulating
Refers to the study, manipulation, and matter at this length scale.
engineering of matter, particles, and
structures on the nanoscale meter