Lesson I

INTRODUCTION TO SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY

(Sept 24-25, 2024)

Science, Technology, and Society (STS) refers to the ongoing cycle of interdependence,
mutual influence, and co-production between technology and society. From the invention of
simple tools at the dawn of humankind to modern advancements like the printing press, this
synergistic relationship has shaped human progress. STS concerns itself with studying how social,
political, and cultural values affect scientific research and technological innovation, and how
these, in turn, impact society, politics, and culture.

STS scholars are often motivated by one or both of the following: (a) the discovery of
relationships between scientific and technological innovations and society from new and revealing
perspectives, with the assumption that science and technology are socially embedded; and (b)
concern over the direction and risks of science and technology.

Many examples of co-production can be observed in our society today. A prominent

example is the use of mobile phones. Society needed a more portable device for communication,
leading to the invention of the telephone, which eventually evolved into mobile phones. This
technology has greatly influenced how people live. Nowadays, many are reachable no matter
where they are, keeping people accountable and relied upon without excuses for not staying in
touch.

Every small change in mobile phones, such as internet access, exemplifies the cycle of co-
production. Society’s need to communicate more efficiently and be accessible everywhere
resulted in the research and development of mobile phones. These, in turn, influenced daily life.
As society relied more on mobile phones, additional features were requested, and as they were
implemented, they further altered how phones were used, perpetuating the cycle of co-production.

The effects of science and technology are often unanticipated and unknown until new
technologies emerge. These effects are sometimes as significant as the intended outcomes, often
sociological in nature, and subtle enough to go unnoticed unless carefully studied. They may
involve gradual changes in the behavior of individuals, groups, institutions, and even entire
societies.

Thus, it is essential to have a background and understanding of the importance of science

and technology and their profound impact on both past and present societies, as well as their
significance in the modern world.
The Importance of Science and Technology in Development

In ancient history, economics began when the occasional exchange of goods and services
became more regular and less spontaneous. It likely didn’t take long for early artisans, like
arrowhead makers, to realize that specializing in their craft and bartering for other necessities was
more efficient. Even in these early exchanges, technology—whether it was making shell and bead
jewelry or crafting sacred objects—played a role in economic development.

The significant social and economic differences between developed and developing
countries are influenced by a variety of factors, including social, cultural, and economic variables,
historical and political elements, international relations, and geography. However, these factors
do not tell the entire story. A major cause of these disparities is the popularization of science and
technology. A key prerequisite for technological progress is recognizing the need for a strong
educational system, as was evident in Japan’s economic success.

In the modern world, superior technologies, resources, geography, and history contribute
to robust economies. In these well-functioning economies, economic excess naturally flows into
greater technological advancements. Moreover, technology is so deeply integrated into human
society that funding for new technological ventures is virtually limitless. Initially, technological
investment involved only the time, effort, and skills of a few individuals. Today, it involves the
collective labor and expertise of millions.

Definition of Science and Technology

Technology is broadly defined as the relationship between society and its tools and crafts,
and how society can control its environment through them. It is the practical application of
knowledge, particularly in specific fields (Merriam-Webster Dictionary). In her 1989 lecture "The
Real World of Technology," Ursula Franklin provided another definition, stating that "technology
is the way we do things around here." The term is often used in three contexts: referring to tools
(or machines), techniques, or cultural forces, or a combination of these.

Technology encompasses both material and immaterial entities created through mental and
physical effort to achieve a purpose. It includes simple tools, like crowbars or wooden spoons, as
well as complex machines, such as space stations or particle accelerators. Even virtual
technologies like computer software fall under this definition.

Technology is also a collection of techniques. In this context, it refers to the current state
of humanity's knowledge of how to combine resources to produce desired products, solve
problems, fulfill needs, or satisfy wants. Terms like "medical technology" or "space technology"
refer to the state of knowledge and tools in specific fields. "State-of-the-art technology" refers to
the highest level of technological advancement available in any field.

Technology influences culture by shaping human interactions. For example,

communication technologies have reduced barriers to interaction, leading to the rise of subcultures
like cyberculture, rooted in the development of the internet and computers. However, not all
technology positively impacts culture. It can also facilitate political oppression and war through
tools like firearms.

The Origin of Science, Technology, and Society

The history of science and technology examines how humanity’s understanding of the
natural world (science) and its ability to manipulate it (technology) have evolved. This field also
studies the cultural, economic, and political impacts of scientific innovation.

Early histories of science were written by practicing scientists like William Whewell, who
aimed to communicate the virtues of science to the public. In the 1930s, historian Boris Hessen
shifted the focus to exploring how scientific practices aligned with the needs and motivations of
their time. After World War II, significant resources were dedicated to teaching and researching
the discipline, with the hope of helping the public better understand the growing influence of
science and technology. By the 1960s, particularly following Thomas Kuhn’s work, the field
evolved to critically examine the scientific enterprise. Today, it is closely aligned with the field of
science studies.
 Activity I
INTRODUCTION TO SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY

Name: _______________________________________ Score ___________

Professor: _________________________ Yr./Sec: ________ Date: ________

I. Check your comprehension

Directions: Answer the following questions briefly.

1. What is the important role of Science and Technology in the development of our economy?
Explain your answer.
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________

2. How do Science and Technology influence the educational landscape and contribute to
changes in our educational system? Expound your answer.
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________

II. IDENTIFICATION: Identify what or who is described in each statement.

1. ______________________ According to her, technology is "the way we do things."

2. ______________________ It is something immaterial, created through mental and

physical effort to achieve some value.

3. ______________________ It is a collection of techniques.

4. ______________________ It is the state of humanity’s knowledge of how to combine

resources to produce desired products and solve problems.

5. ______________________ These are the highest forms of technology available to

humanity in any field.

6. ______________________ The endless cycle of co-dependence, co-influence, and co-

production between technology and society.
 7. ______________________ It refers to the popularization of science and technology.

8. ______________________ According to him, science is a way to communicate the virtues

of science to humankind.

9. ______________________ It means skill, craft, trade, science, trick, and work of art.

10. ______________________ It refers to any systematic knowledge or practice.

Part 3: WRITE AN ESSAY (1000 WORDS ONLY) ABOUT THE 17 SDG OF

UNITED NATIONS.