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STS Chapter 2

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10 views16 pages

STS Chapter 2

Uploaded by

anabelledc1220101
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Defining Human

Flourishing and Good


Life
Human flourishing encompasses optimal well-being,
including physical health, mental stability, and
emotional and spiritual fulfillment. Rooted in
Aristotle's concept of "eudaimonia," it aims for a
virtuous and meaningful life.
The good life is a subjective term often equated with
happiness but extends to include fulfillment,
achievement, and well-being. It varies from person to
person and involves meeting basic needs and finding
purpose.
Different Perspectives
and the Role of Science
and Technology
Various philosophical traditions offer differing
views on human flourishing. Stoicism focuses on
virtue and self-control, while Hedonism
emphasizes pleasure as the ultimate good.
Science and technology play a dual role in
human flourishing. They offer advancements
like medical cures but also pose ethical
dilemmas, such as the misuse of technology
and ethical concerns in medical science.
Aristotle's Virtue (Arete)

Components of
The cornerstone of eudaimonia, virtue encompasses
moral and social qualities like courage and justice. It
serves as a moral compass guiding actions and

Human decisions.
Example: A firefighter's courage in saving lives

Flourishing
contributes to individual and community well-
being.

Reason (Logos)
Essential for ethical decision-making, reason allows
individuals to discern right from wrong.
Example: A scientist using ethical reasoning in
research contributes to human knowledge.
Aristotle's Pleasure (Hedone)
Components of Necessary but not ultimate, pleasure should align with

Human virtuous actions.


Example: Pleasure from helping others is more

Flourishing virtuous than pleasure from excessive eating.

Friendship (Philia)
A key element providing emotional support and
enriching lives.
Example: A long-lasting friendship based on mutual
respect contributes to overall well-being.
Aristotle's Wealth and Resources

Components of Necessary for engaging in virtuous activities, but not the

Human
end goal.
Example: Financial stability allows for charitable
donations and educational investments.

Flourishing

Intellectual Engagement
Involvement in political and social activities is crucial
for eudaimonia.
Example: Community service or local governance
provides a sense of purpose.
Aristotle's
Components of
Human Practical Wisdom (Phronesis)
Flourishing The ability to make morally good decisions based on
rational thought.
Example: A medical doctor's ethical discernment in
treatment contributes to patient well-being.
Schools of Thought
on Human
Flourishing
Materialism
Focuses on material wealth as the primary determinant of
happiness. Science and technology drive this by offering advanced
consumer goods. Raises ethical and environmental concerns.
Example: Advancements in nanotechnology leading to luxurious
products but also causing environmental degradation.
Schools of Thought
on Human
Flourishing
Hedonism
Believes pleasure or happiness is the highest good. Science and
technology serve to maximize pleasure, such as medical
advancements for pain relief.
Example: Streaming services designed to maximize pleasure but
may lead to addictive behaviors.
Schools of Thought
on Human
Flourishing
Stoicism
Advocates self-control and rationality. Technology should improve
but not control our lives.
Example: A Stoic might use a smartphone for utility but won't let
notifications disrupt their peace of mind.
Schools of Thought
on Human
Flourishing
Stoicism
Advocates self-control and rationality. Technology should improve
but not control our lives.
Example: A Stoic might use a smartphone for utility but won't let
notifications disrupt their peace of mind.
Schools of Thought
on Human
Flourishing
Theism
Defines life's purpose in terms of a relationship with a higher power.
Science and technology are seen through this ethical lens.
Example: Medical advancements as manifestations of divine
grace, leading to debates on ethical issues like genetic
engineering.
Schools of Thought
on Human
Flourishing
Humanism
Emphasizes human value, reason, ethics, and social justice.
Advocates for technology to address social issues.
Example: Use of technology to combat poverty and inequality,
insisting on ethical considerations.
Science and Technology in Human
Flourishing - Positive Contributions

Water Purification Advancements in Autonomous


Technologies Agriculture Vehicles
Innovations like reverse osmosis and UV Genetically modified crops resistant to Promises to revolutionize
water purification have improved access pests and harsh conditions can address transportation by reducing accidents
to clean water, reducing waterborne food scarcity issues, especially in caused by human error.
diseases and enhancing well-being. developing countries.
Ethical Consideration: Job loss due
Ethical Consideration: Ensuring Ethical Consideration: Debates on to automation and moral
equitable access to these long-term environmental impact algorithms in emergency situations.
technologies. and patenting living organisms.
Ethical Frameworks and Public
Policies

Science and Necessary to guide the positive potential of science and


technology.
Example: Ethical guidelines for water purification

Technology in technologies to ensure accessibility for those in


need.

Human Complex Interplay


Flourishing - The role of science and technology in human flourishing
involves a balance between benefits and ethical

Balancing Act considerations.

Balanced Approach
Integrating ethical reasoning with scientific innovation
is crucial for leveraging these tools positively.
Example: Public policies that consider both the
benefits and ethical implications of autonomous
vehicles.
Thank you for listening

GERALD M. SALAS
Assistant Professor IV

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