Introduction to

Science,
Technology and
Society
GERALD M. SALAS
Understanding Science,
Technology, and Society
(STS)
STS is an interdisciplinary field that explores the
interplay among science, technology, and society
Science focuses on the systematic study of the natural
world through observation and experimentation
Technology is the practical application of scientific
knowledge, encompassing techniques, skills, and
methods
Society consists of a group of people living within a
defined area, subject to common political authority
and sharing a distinct identity
Importance and
Implications of
STS
STS serves as a lens to examine ethical, social,
and environmental impacts of scientific and
technological advancements
The field raises critical questions, such as
bioethical concerns in the development of GMOs
Provides a framework for responsible innovation,
encouraging ethical and sustainable practices
in science and technology
Traditional science is often rooted in Modern science is characterized by
indigenous knowledge systems and is deeply collaboration, interdisciplinarity, and a
embedded in local cultures. focus on societal benefits.
Practices like "kaingin" in the Philippines It involves systematic methods like
exemplify traditional agricultural methods hypothesis formulation, data collection,
passed down through generations. analysis, and peer review.
Herbal medicine practices such as using Technological advancements like GIS are
"lagundi" and "tawa-tawa" for treating leveraged for applications like risk
ailments are community-based and localized. assessment in disaster-prone areas.
Challenges include lack of documentation, Challenges include ethical considerations
making it difficult to validate and standardize and the environmental impact of
these traditional methods. technological advancements.

Traditional Science vs Modern Science

Key Scientific Method
Components of The scientific method is a structured approach to
inquiry that is foundational to the scientific disciplines.

Science,
Technology, and Technological Innovations
Technological innovations have been instrumental in

Society advancing scientific research and societal

development.

Social Structures and Norms

Social structures and norms significantly influence how
science and technology are applied and received in
society.
The Scientific
Method
Structured approach to inquiry foundational to
scientific disciplines.
Steps include observation, question formation,
hypothesis, experimentation, data collection,
conclusion, and publication.
Often used in environmental science to study
impacts of human activities, such as mining
effects on water quality in the Philippines.
Technological
Innovations
Advances in AI are revolutionizing healthcare,
including telemedicine in remote areas of the
Philippines.
Renewable energy technologies like solar and
wind are becoming more efficient and
affordable.
Blockchain is improving transparency in
governance, and precision agriculture is
enhancing farming practices.
Social Structures and
Norms
The "Bayanihan" spirit exemplifies community
cooperation during natural disasters in the
Philippines.
Traditional gender roles have influenced career
choices, but initiatives are encouraging more
women in STEM.
Indigenous knowledge is being integrated into
modern conservation efforts.
Technological Innovations Impact on Social
in the Philippines Structures and Norms
Mobile payments through
Social media has changed
platforms like GCash are
communication but raises
changing financial
privacy concerns.
transactions.
Remote work technologies are
Telemedicine has become vital
altering work culture and blurring
during the COVID-19
work-life boundaries.
pandemic.
Online learning highlights the
E-commerce platforms like
digital divide, and consumer
Lazada are transforming retail,
behavior is shifting towards
and ride-sharing apps like
online shopping.
Grab are altering
transportation.
The Interconnected Science, technology, and society (STS) are
deeply interconnected, each influencing the

Nature of STS
other in various ways.
Advances in science often lead to
technological innovations, which have
social, economic, and ethical implications.
Public perception, cultural attitudes, and
government policies can influence the
direction of scientific research and
technological development.
 The Interconnected Nature of STS

How Science How Technology How Society Influences

Influences Society Influences Society Science and Technology
Medical advancements from scientific Technological advancements in Public opinion and ethical considerations
research have increased life expectancy communication have revolutionized can steer the direction of scientific research,
and improved quality of life. societal interactions. such as debates around stem cell research.
Scientific studies on environmental issues Automation in industries can both Government policies and funding often
have led to increased public awareness and create and eliminate jobs, leading dictate the focus areas of scientific research,
policy changes, especially in the Philippines. to shifts in employment landscapes. like the emphasis on renewable energy in the
Economic development is often driven by Philippines.
The rise of big data and analytics
technological innovations stemming from
has raised ethical concerns about Cultural beliefs and norms, like the
scientific research, such as the BPO industry
data privacy and security. "Bayanihan" spirit, can impact the adoption
in the Philippines.
and utilization of technology in community-
based solutions.
The Role of The interplay between science, technology, and
Science, society (STS) is crucial for addressing global
challenges like climate change, poverty, and
Technology, and public health crises.
This triad collaborates to provide comprehensive
Society in solutions to pressing issues affecting humanity
on a global scale.

Addressing
Global Challenges
 Climate Change and Public Health and Poverty Alleviation and
Environmental Sustainability Medical Advancements Economic Development

Scientific research provides Scientific research in medicine Deliverables

Scientific studies on social
essential data for understanding structures and economic models
has led to life-saving vaccines,
climate change, leading to What is theinform policymaking
expected output? for poverty
treatments, and preventive
initiatives like coastal protection Include anyalleviation.
necessary information,
measures, such as the rapid
in the Philippines. such as Technological
submission innovations like
guidelines.
development of COVID-19
Technological solutions such as mobile banking and e-
vaccines.
renewable energy technologies commerce platforms empower
Technological innovations like
help mitigate climate change impoverished communities by
effects.
telemedicine and health Assessment providing economic
informatics improve healthcare
Societal actions, including opportunities.
delivery and patient outcomes. What are the criteria for assessment?
grassroots movements and Societal impact through social
Public awareness and You can opt to use programs
bullet points.
policy changes, are influenced welfare and
government policies, shaped byExpound on the criteria as needed.
by scientific evidence and play a community-driven initiatives,
scientific evidence, are crucial
key role in promoting often backed by scientific
for the effective implementation
environmental sustainability. research, plays a vital role in
of public health initiatives.
poverty alleviation.
Ethical Ethical considerations guide the conduct of
scientific research, the development and

Considerations
implementation of technological innovations, and
societal engagement with these advancements.
Ethical dimensions are integral to the relationship
in STS between science, technology, and society.
 Informed consent is crucial in research involving human subjects,
ensuring participants are fully aware of risks and benefits.
Data privacy is a must, especially in sensitive areas like medical
1 Scientific Research
or social research.
Animal welfare is also a concern, requiring humane treatment
and justifiable scientific reasons for their use in research.

Informed consent is crucial in research involving human subjects,

ensuring participants are fully aware of risks and benefits.
Data privacy is a must, especially in sensitive areas like medical
2 Technological Innovations
or social research.
Animal welfare is also a concern, requiring humane treatment
and justifiable scientific reasons for their use in research.

Public awareness about the ethical implications of scientific and

technological advancements is a societal responsibility.
Policy and regulation should reflect ethical considerations and
3 Societal Engagement
often rely on scientific data for informed decision-making.
Community involvement plays a vital role in shaping ethical
standards and policies, such as grassroots movements.
Key Points STS is an interdisciplinary field that explores the complex
relationships among science, technology, and society.
Advances in science often lead to technological
innovations, which in turn have social, economic, and
ethical implications.
Society shapes and is shaped by scientific and
technological advancements, influencing public
perception, cultural attitudes, and government policies.
Ethical considerations guide the conduct and application
of science and technology, affecting societal engagement.
STS is pivotal in addressing global challenges such as
climate change, public health, and poverty alleviation.
Understanding the intricate relationship between science,
technology, and society is crucial for balancing the
benefits and risks associated with scientific and
technological progress.
Thank you for listening

GERALD M. SALAS
Assistant Professor IV