MARIANO MARCOS STATE UNIVERSITY

College of Teacher Education

CHAPTER II
STS and the Human Condition
Have you ever thought about how advancements in
science and technology have shaped your life and helped you
thrive in today's world? Have you considered how science and
technology have played a role in your personal growth and
success, influencing the way you live and interact with the world
around you?

The aim of this learning material is to introduce the concepts and descriptions of human
person flourishing in terms of science and technology. The focus is on their interconnectedness,
their nature and significance to modern society, and their capacity to transform lives. The module
also presents the development and impacts of science and technology on human societies in
achieving human flourishment.

LESSON 1:
The Human Person Flourishing in terms of Science
and Technology

G oal Setting

At the end of this learning material, you must have:

1. Analyzed the human condition to deeply reflect and express philosophical ramifications
that are meaningful to the student as a part of the society.

R ecalling Concepts

Science and Technology, and their Impacts to Society

Science, derived from "scientia," meaning "to know," is a collaborative pursuit focused on
understanding human history through observable evidence. Through observation and
experimentation, it systematically studies natural and social phenomena to uncover objective
relationships. Scientific knowledge is essential for addressing humanity's evolving needs.

Technology, stemming from the Greek words for art/craft and word/speech, applies
scientific knowledge to practical purposes. It encompasses tools, processes, and methods aimed
at enhancing human capabilities and improving living standards. Technology spans various
fields such as agriculture, transportation, medicine, and education, facilitating the conversion of
raw materials into desired products.

Society refers to a group of individuals engaged in ongoing social interaction, sharing a

common territory and subject to similar political authority and cultural norms. It encompasses
all human interactions, including those aimed at problem-solving and creating comfort.

Science and technology play a crucial role in fostering human flourishing. They drive
economic development, improve healthcare and education, and enhance infrastructure, all of
which contribute to a better quality of life for individuals. The advancements in science and
technology, such as microprocessors and biotechnology, not only reshape businesses but also
directly impact the lives of people, enabling them to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Moreover, through shaping societal values and priorities, science and technology
influence how individuals perceive themselves and their environment, further contributing to
their overall well-being and flourishing. Therefore, harnessing science and technology for the
betterment of society is essential for promoting human flourishing and ensuring a prosperous
future for all.

Quick Survey:

Let us begin the lesson with an individual activity. Each of you will evaluate yourself based on
the following criteria. Choose from the rating scale either 0 or 10 with their corresponding
description. Encircle the rating that corresponds to your evaluation.

Domain Rating
Domain 1: Happiness and Life Satisfaction
1. My overall satisfaction with life is: 0: Not Satisfied at All 10: Completely Satisfied
2. My overall state of happiness is: 0: Extremely Unhappy 10: Extremely Happy
Domain 2: Mental and Physical Health
1. In general, I would rate my physical health as: 0: Poor 10: Excellent

2. In general, I would rate my mental health as: 0: Poor 10: Excellent

Domain 3: Meaning and Purpose

1. Overall, I feel the things I do in life are: 0: Not at All Worthwhile 10: Completely Worthwhile

2. I understand the purpose of my life: 0: Strongly Disagree 10: Strongly Agree

Domain 4: Character and Virtue

1. I always act to promote good in all circumstances. 0: Not True of Me 10: Completely True of Me

2. I can give up some happiness now for greater 0: Not True of Me 10: Completely True of Me
happiness later.
Domain 5: Close Social Relationships
1. I am content with my friendships and 0: Strongly Disagree 10: Strongly Agree
relationships.
2. My relationships are as satisfying as I would want 0: Strongly Disagree 10: Strongly Agree
them to be.
Domain 6: Financial and Material Stability
1. I worry about having enough money for my 0: Worry All of the Time 10: Do Not Ever Worry
monthly living expenses.
2. I worry about my safety, food, or housing. 0: Worry All of the Time 10: Do Not Ever Worry

Self-Reflection:

1. Identify the aspects of your life where you got the highest scores. Reflect on these. You
are doing something right! CONTINUE with it and perhaps ask yourself how you can
further improve it.
2. Identify the aspects of your life where you got the lowest scores. Reflect on these. Perhaps
you need to START doing something different to improve it. Or perhaps you need to STOP
doing something so that you won’t continue to be in such a low state.
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 A cquiring Learning

1.1: Human Flourishing

Living a flourishing life has been a perennial question, and ancient Greek philosophers
were among the earliest to delve into it. Plato and Aristotle, two of the most influential Greek
thinkers, pondered this deeply.

They referred to a flourishing life as "eudaimonia," often equated with happiness.

According to them, happiness stems from eudaimonia or human flourishing.

Read the text carefully and answer the process questions.

Human Flourishing in Ancient Greece

Elliott S. Dacher, M.D.

In the 4th century BC, Aristotle gave a series of lectures in Athens that became
known as the Nicomachean Ethics. It is here that he introduced the word “Eudaimonia”,
which is now translated to mean human flourishing – the innate potential of each
individual to live a life of enduring happiness, penetrating wisdom, optimal well-being,
and authentic love and compassion. Of course, Aristotle was not alone in this view of the
possible heights of the human condition. Wise women and men through time and across
diverse cultures have spoken of this very same pinnacle of human existence. With a
universal voice, they spoke of this uniquely human possibility, while simultaneously
pointing out the veils of mental misunderstandings and emotional disturbances that
must be surmounted before this potential can be realized.

In his Parable of the Cave, Plato describes this promise of human flourishing as
well as the veils of confusion and ignorance that obscure its realization. He speaks
about both our enslavement to tenacious mental conditioning and the potential
breakthrough to the “True, the Good and the Beautiful,” his description of human
flourishing. The philosophers of the East expressed this in a similar parable. They say
that we are born and are living on a gem-encrusted island yet, blinded by our confusion
and ignorance, we are unable to see the riches that lie beneath our feet. We leave our
island-home at the end of life empty-handed, even though great wealth is right beneath
our feet.

So, if this natural treasure of happiness, wisdom, and love resides in each of
us, why can’t we see or experience it? Why does it seem so scarce and inaccessible?
Why do we exert so much energy and effort scavenging in the outer world for a mere
facsimile called pleasure, which is transient at best and at worst suffering-in-disguise?
Why don’t we go directly to the source, to the center of our being where the great
treasures of life are naturally, permanently, and brilliantly present? The answer is quite
simple. Out of habit, we have learned to search for the good and benevolent life in the
wrong place, the outer world. That is why we can never find what we are searching for
regardless of the effort and persistence we bring to our search.

We learned this powerful and unsatisfying mental habit a long time ago. We
mistakenly learned to reach outside of our self for happiness and serenity, wisdom and
compassion, health and healing, and wholeness and love. This tendency is so deeply
ingrained that it feels like a natural instinct. Even when our outer gaze fails to truly
satisfy our longing, we automatically, without reflection, respond with greater striving
and effort. We don’t know what else to do. We rarely question our learned dependence
on the outer world. We have an intractable faith that it will give us what we need, if we
only try hard enough. It is this intractable self-righteous habit that denies us access to
the authentic qualities of human flourishing that are already and have always been
seamlessly interwoven within our authentic self.

Fortunately, the wise ones who came before us left a road map to human
flourishing. They have shown us the way to move beyond “normal” life to a noble life
 that fulfills our evolutionary destiny. They have left us a step-by-step instruction
manual for the attainment of human flourishing. Those instructions reflect the universal
teachings of all wise philosophies and religions throughout time and across diverse
cultures.

The question for each of us is how to take this journey and who to rely on as a
trustworthy guide. In our time, when there is a plethora of workshops, seminars, books,
and “guides,” this is not an easy choice. Some of these offerings reflect authentic
wisdom, while others do not. Perhaps it is best to turn toward the traditions whose
detailed knowledge and practices are alive today, having stood the test of time.
Similarly, there are few teachers who are well trained and “walk the talk,” yet they are
more available today than even a few years ago.

The investment in a time-tested inner path and wise spiritual guides is a critical
choice which can potentially save years, if not a lifetime. So, take your time when you
decide upon the right path and the teacher you will be off on the adventure of a lifetime.
That adventure is a journey to the last frontier to be explored by humankind. It is a
glorious journey of body, mind and spirit towards the perfection of human life. Choose
well and pack your pack your bags with enthusiasm, perseverance, and devotion.

Process Questions:

1. What did Aristotle introduce in his Nicomachean Ethics, and what does it mean today?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________

2. How does Plato's Parable of the Cave show the idea of human flourishing and its
obstacles?
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______________________________________________________________________________________

3. Why do people often look for happiness and fulfillment outside themselves, according to
the passage?
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______________________________________________________________________________________

4. How does the passage describe the challenge of finding authentic wisdom and guidance
in today's world?
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______________________________________________________________________________________

5. What advice does the passage give for those wanting to pursue human flourishing,
especially in choosing a path and a guide?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________

How can we find inner happiness?

What should we look for in a guide for our journey to human
flourishing?
1.1.1: Plato

Plato argued that inherent in all human

beings is a natural inclination towards eudaimonia or
human flourishing.

He contended that to achieve flourishing, one

must engage in moral contemplation and virtuous
deeds, wherein virtue is synonymous with 'excellence.'

According to Plato, true well-being for an

individual should not hinge on external possessions
like fame, wealth, or appearance. Merely pursuing
these external goods without moral depth will not lead
to genuine flourishing.

Plato (428/427 – 348/347 B.C.)

Image source: https://www.biography.com/scholars-educators/plato

According to Plato, a human being can develop virtue by:

1. Doing introspection and deep contemplation. Plato asserted that human flourishing
is unattainable without examining one's life and surroundings. He emphasized the use
of reason as essential for wisdom and ultimate fulfillment.

2. Advocating for the mastery of reason. Plato argued that prioritizing rational thought
over base desires is paramount. He warned against the detrimental consequences of
neglecting reason, highlighting its role in self-control and promoting the common good.

3. Living with the four cardinal virtues essential for a flourishing life: wisdom,
courage, temperance, and justice. Wisdom, cultivated through a pursuit of knowledge
driven by curiosity, fosters efficacy and self-mastery. Courage is vital for upholding justice
in society and facing life's adversities. Temperance, or self-restraint, safeguards against
corruption and chaos, essential for personal and societal flourishing.

Process Questions:

1. What do you think Plato means by saying that human well-being shouldn't rely on things
like fame or wealth?
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__________________________________________________________________________________
2. How do you see the idea of self-examination helping someone lead a better life, according
to Plato?
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3. In your view, why is it important to think before acting, as Plato suggests?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________

4. What do you think about Plato's four key virtues (wisdom, courage, temperance, and
justice) and how they relate to living a good life?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
5. How might someone apply Plato's ideas about self-control and being virtuous in their daily
life?
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1.1.2: Aristotle
Aristotle posited that the highest good for human
beings is eudaimonia, signifying a state of flourishing. He
described human nature as multifaceted, comprising of the
four aspects, as follows:

1) Humans are physical beings. As physical beings,

humans rely on essential elements such as air, water, food,
rest, and exercise to sustain bodily functions and ensure
overall well-being. These fundamental necessities form the
foundation for maintaining health and vitality in human life.

2) Humans are emotional beings. humans share

commonalities with other animals, experiencing urges,
wants, desires, and reactions. Just like physical
requirements, humans also have emotional needs, which
Aristotle (384-322 B.C.) encompass a spectrum of feelings, connections, and
Image source: https://thegreatthinkers.org/aristotle/
expressions essential for psychological well-being and
interpersonal relationships.

3) Humans are social beings. Being inherently social creatures, humans possess a natural
inclination towards forming connections and relationships within society. This inherent
social nature necessitates the presence of friendship, cooperation, and a sense of
belongingness for individuals to thrive within their communities. These social bonds
provide support, companionship, and opportunities for collaboration, contributing
significantly to human fulfillment and well-being.

4) Humans are rational beings. Human beings, distinguished by their rationality, possess
a unique capacity that sets them apart from other animals. This rational faculty enables
humans to express themselves, engage in creative endeavors, and adhere to reasoned
thought and decision-making.

According to Aristotle, a virtue is a quality of character that fosters personal flourishing. Like
Plato, Aristotle held that humans naturally pursue knowledge through reason, believing that
acquiring knowledge leads to flourishing. He referred to this as "intellectual virtue." Aristotle
emphasized a crucial difference between knowledge and human flourishing.

There are two types of knowledge:

• Theoretical Knowledge or the knowledge about the nature of principles.

• Practical Knowledge or the knowledge of applying these principles.

Theoretical knowledge grants us the ability to understand and manipulate nature, yet
without practical know-how, such endeavors remain unrealized. Therefore, while knowledge
holds significance in life, it is the practical application thereof that fosters true flourishing.
Alongside intellectual virtue, the virtue of character plays a pivotal role.

Aristotle asserted that to achieve flourishing, one must embody eleven virtuous traits.

• Courage: The ability to face danger or difficulty with confidence and resolve.
• Temperance: Moderation and self-control, especially in the face of temptation.
• Liberality: Generosity and open-handedness in giving, without expecting anything in
return.
• Magnificence: The ability to pursue grand and noble goals, and to undertake great
projects with grace and magnificence.
• Magnanimity: Greatness of soul; a noble and generous disposition towards others,
along with a sense of honor and dignity.
• Patience: The ability to endure hardship or delay without becoming upset or
frustrated.
• Truthfulness: Honesty and sincerity in speech and action, being true to oneself and
others.
• Wittiness: The ability to use humor and wit appropriately, bringing joy and light-
heartedness to interactions.
• Friendliness: Warmth and kindness towards others, fostering harmonious
relationships and community.
 • Justice: Fairness and impartiality in dealing with others, giving each their due and
respecting their rights.
• Shame: A sense of moral responsibility and self-awareness, leading to a desire to
avoid dishonor or disgrace.

Aristotle proposed that practical wisdom, known as phronesis, serves as the link between
all virtues, allowing individuals to judiciously apply the appropriate virtue in various situations.

Attaining a virtuous life involves education and habitual practice. To summarize, when
one cultivates both intellectual virtues and virtues of character, they can achieve eudaimonia or
human flourishing.

Process Questions:

1. How do you see Aristotle's concept of eudaimonia aligning with your own
understanding of personal fulfillment?
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2. Reflecting on Aristotle's four aspects of human nature, which aspect do you feel most
resonates with your own experiences?
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3. In your opinion, how can someone effectively cultivate practical wisdom, as described
by Aristotle, in their daily life?
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__________________________________________________________________________________

Human flourishing, as understood through Aristotle's perspective, encapsulates the idea

that all our actions aim towards a desired end, ultimately leading to self-fulfillment or self-
actualization. This lifelong journey encompasses countless experiences including hopes,
achievements, regrets, losses, illness, suffering, and coping mechanisms.

Throughout the course of evolution, humans have undergone significant changes and
developments:

1. Walking Upright: Initially, humans walked on all fours, but as environmental

conditions shifted, they adapted to walking upright, which proved more energy-
efficient for foraging and survival.

2. Tool Usage: From rudimentary tools made of sharpened wood and stone in ancient
times to the sophisticated technologies of today, humans have continuously
innovated tools for hunting, farming, construction, and various other activities.

3. Domestication: The domestication of animals, such as goats, sheep, and chickens,

marked a significant shift from hunting to farming. This transition not only provided
a more stable food source but also enabled humans to utilize animals for labor and
transportation.

4. Physical Evolution: Over time, human physical characteristics have evolved in

response to environmental pressures, leading to changes in body structure and
function to enhance survival and adaptation.

5. Brain Complexity: As humans accumulate knowledge and experience, the brain

becomes increasingly complex, allowing for faster processing and response to stimuli,
thus shaping cognitive abilities and behaviors.

6. Social Life: Socialization is fundamental to human existence, leading to the formation

of communities and societies characterized by shared values, norms, and traditions.
Collaboration and cooperation within social groups facilitate collective goals and
mutual support.
 a. Support each other. Since humans have a common goal, it is only right that
we must support each other. The more the better and easier.
b. Formation of social groups. Society builds a strong network which shares the
same interests and ideas in the same territory. It is important that we create
a strong foundation by uniting ourselves.
c. Formation of culture. People in a group or community share norms of conduct,
beliefs, and ethical standards that also define what culture this group or
community has. Therefore, we can also respect, and support our own culture.
d. Regulations of Policies and Standards. Society is the foundation of the
government. There will be a need to formulate policies and standards to have
a peaceful society that they can follow and benefit from.
e. Achieving common goal. A society works collectively for what would benefit all
of them. Society must focus on the goal for the sake of all and not only for
their own interest.

7. Language and Symbolism: Human communication has evolved from simple sounds
and gestures to complex languages and symbolic systems, including writing, art, and
technology, enabling the transmission of knowledge, ideas, and culture across
generations.

1.1.3: Human Flourishing: A Modern World Concept

In the field of Psychology, human flourishing encompasses a multitude of factors, such

as happiness, life satisfaction, mental and physical well-being, finding meaning and purpose,
possessing virtuous character, nurturing close social connections, and maintaining financial and
material stability.

Human flourishing encompasses various aspects that contribute to a fulfilling and

meaningful life. Let's delve into each component:

1. Financial and Material Stability: This aspect refers to having the resources necessary
to meet one's basic needs and pursue one's goals without excessive worry or stress about
finances. Financial stability provides a sense of security and enables individuals to focus
on other aspects of their well-being.

2. Happiness and Life Satisfaction: Happiness involves experiencing positive emotions,

such as joy and contentment, while life satisfaction relates to overall fulfillment and
fulfillment with one's life circumstances. Together, they represent an individual's
subjective well-being and sense of overall happiness with life.

3. Mental and Physical Health: Mental health encompasses emotional well-being,

psychological resilience, and the ability to cope with stress, while physical health involves
maintaining a healthy body through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate rest.
Both aspects are essential for overall well-being and human flourishing.

4. Close Social Relationships: Strong and supportive relationships with family, friends,
and community members contribute significantly to human flourishing. These
relationships provide emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging, which
are vital for mental and emotional well-being.

5. Character and Virtue: Character refers to one's moral and ethical qualities, including
virtues such as honesty, integrity, compassion, and resilience. Cultivating virtuous
qualities contributes to personal growth, ethical decision-making, and a sense of
fulfillment in life.

6. Meaning and Purpose: Having a sense of meaning and purpose involves understanding
one's values, goals, and beliefs and aligning one's actions with these principles.
Meaningful pursuits, such as meaningful work, personal relationships, or involvement in
community service, provide a sense of fulfillment and contribute to human flourishing.

Understanding Human Flourishing

Understanding human flourishing involves recognizing its inherent value and how
individuals actualize their potentials. While flourishing is seen as inherently worthwhile, its
meaning differs from historical perspectives like Greek philosophy. Additionally, flourishing is
about individuals reaching their full potential, which varies for each person. This exploration
aims to clarify these key aspects of human flourishing and their importance in our lives.

1. Flourishing is intrinsically worthwhile. Flourishing is inherently valuable and

worthy of pursuit in its own right. Unlike the perspective of Greek philosophers, who
viewed human flourishing as a means to the ultimate goal of happiness, this notion
emphasizes the intrinsic worth of flourishing itself.

2. The actualization of human potential. Human flourishing occurs when an

individual maximizes their potentials and capabilities to the fullest extent. This
concept is relative because each person possesses unique potential and experiences
varied possibilities. Consequently, comparing the level of flourishing between different
individuals is not feasible.

Criteria for Human Flourishing

Exploring the criteria for human flourishing helps us understand what makes a fulfilling
life. These criteria guide us in assessing well-being and progress. Human flourishing isn't just
about specific moments—it's about our entire life. It's also a continuous process of growth. And
certain things, like good social relationships, are universally beneficial for flourishing. Let's
examine into these key criteria and their importance.

a. Life as a whole. In considering an individual’s flourishing, his or her whole life must be
considered. ‘Whole Life’, in this case, means the totality of human life, not just some
parts.

b. Human flourishing is a dynamic state. Human flourishing is dynamic. It requires an

on-going developmental process to actualize the human potential. In other words, one
must continuously develop to become a flourishing human being.

c. Objective Goods. The things that are good for everybody, such as good social
relationships. These good things or objective goods, if developed will contribute to human
flourishing.

The Human Person Flourishing in Terms of Science and Technology

Science is a systematic body of knowledge that seeks to explain and understand life and
the world. It helps us study everything from tiny things like atoms to big things like planets.
Scientists do experiments and use tools to learn more about how things work.

One great thing about science is that it is always changing. As we discover new things
and make new inventions, our understanding of the world gets bigger.

Science also helps us make all kinds of cool stuff, like smartphones and medicine.
Without science, we wouldn't have things like the internet or advanced medical treatments.

So basically, science helps us figure out how things work and make awesome stuff that
makes our lives better.

Role of Science and Technology in Human Flourishing

Science Technology
• Comparable to theoretical knowledge • Comparable to practical knowledge
• Explains the nature or principles • Applies the theoretical knowledge in
behind an object, event or order to have an output.
phenomenon

Scientific and technological discoveries enable humanity to gain intellectual virtues.

Science and technology are like a team that helps us thrive. Science is like learning the basics,
understanding how things work in nature, like why the sky is blue. Technology is like using that
knowledge to make useful stuff, like computers or medicines.

Science figures out how things happen, while technology uses that knowledge to create
things we can use. For example, scientists study how plants grow, and then technologists use
that knowledge to develop better farming tools.
 Together, science and technology help us solve problems and make life better. They're
like partners in helping us learn more and create things that make our lives easier.

For example,

• Through science, the antibiotic nature of Penicillum notatum was discovered.

• Through technology, the penicillin medicine was developed and provided cure to many
diseases.

Science uncovered the natural antibiotic properties of the mold, and technology turned
that discovery into a lifesaving medicine. Together, they helped cure many diseases and save
countless lives.

Progress in Science and Technology had many positive impacts to human life such as the
following:

1. Made work easier, efficient, or practical: Advancements in technology have led to the
development of tools, machines, and systems that streamline tasks and increase
productivity. For example, innovations like computers, automation, and robotics have
revolutionized industries, reducing manual labor and simplifying complex processes.

2. Made us happy or entertained: Technology has enriched our lives with entertainment
options, from movies and music to video games and social media. These platforms provide
avenues for relaxation, recreation, and socialization, enhancing our overall well-being and
quality of life.

3. Kept us healthy and safe: Science and technology have contributed to significant
improvements in healthcare and safety measures. Medical breakthroughs, such as
vaccines, antibiotics, and diagnostic tools, have helped prevent and treat diseases, saving
countless lives. Additionally, advancements in safety technology, like seat belts, airbags,
and surveillance systems, have enhanced public safety and security.

4. Helped to address social issues and concerns: Science and technology have played
crucial roles in addressing pressing social issues and concerns, such as poverty, hunger,
and environmental degradation. Innovations like renewable energy technologies,
agricultural advancements, and clean water solutions contribute to sustainable
development and alleviate societal challenges.

5. Helped in the development of human talent and abilities: Science and technology
have facilitated the exploration and development of human potential across various fields.
Educational tools and digital platforms provide opportunities for learning and skill
development, empowering individuals to unlock their talents and abilities. Additionally,
advancements in communication and transportation facilitate collaboration and
exchange of ideas, fostering creativity and innovation on a global scale.

The following situations further highlight the contributions of science and technology in
achieving human flourishing:

• The development of social media has made it easier to communicate with people.
• Musical instruments helped in developing musical talent in providing entertainment and
happiness to many.
• The development of medicines helped in combatting diseases, hence prolonging life.

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 S ummarizing Learning
• Science and technology contribute significantly to human flourishing by enhancing
various aspects of life.
• They enable intellectual growth and understanding, leading to personal development
and fulfillment.
• Through scientific research, we gain insights into the natural world and how it
functions, which can lead to innovations that improve our quality of life.
• Technology, on the other hand, applies this knowledge to create tools and solutions
that address human needs and challenges, fostering convenience and efficiency.
• Advancements in science and technology have revolutionized healthcare, providing
better treatments, preventive measures, and diagnostic tools, thereby enhancing
human health and well-being.
• They also play a crucial role in facilitating communication and social interaction,
strengthening relationships and fostering a sense of belonging.
• Science and technology contribute to human flourishing by offering opportunities for
education, skill development, and personal growth.
• Through providing access to information, resources, and learning platforms, they
empower individuals to pursue their interests, passions, and aspirations.
• Science and technology are essential components of human flourishing, enabling us
to lead fulfilling, meaningful, and prosperous lives.

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P rocessing Learning

TEST YOUR CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS

Activity 1: Well-Being Check-In

1. Have you ever experienced a moment where you realized that seeking happiness is limited
only to external things (fame, wealth, beauty, etc)? What did it make you feel? Do you
think happiness is still possible without those material things? How?
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2. Considering Aristotle's list of virtuous traits, which one do you already possess? Why do
you say so? Which among the virtues is most challenging to develop? Why?
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3. Considering your current status in life, do you think you will ever achieve human
flourishing? What can you do to attain it?
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______________________________________________________________________________________

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Activity 2: Well-Being Check-In

Instructions: Let's think about how we're doing in different parts of life and see where we might
want to make some improvements.
 1. Take a moment to think about these areas of life:
a. having enough money,
b. feeling happy,
c. being mentally and physically healthy,
d. having good friends,
e. being a good person, and
f. feeling like your life has meaning.
2. On a scale from 1 to 10, rate how satisfied you are with each area. A 1 means you're not
happy at all, and a 10 means you're super happy.
3. Look at your ratings. If there are any areas where you're not as happy as you'd like to be,
think about why that might be.
4. Remember what makes a good life: looking at your whole life, knowing life changes all the
time, and having things in life that are good for everyone.
5. Think about how these ideas match up with what you think makes a good life.
6. Pick one thing you can do to make your life better in the area where you want to improve.
7. Take action! Whether it's talking to a friend, doing something nice for yourself, or setting
a goal, make a move to improve your life.
8. Follow the format below for your output.

Area Rating Why do you have that rating? What can you do to improve
your rating?
1. having enough money,
2. feeling happy,
c. being mentally and physically
healthy,
3. having good friends,
4. being a good person, and
5. feeling like your life has
meaning.

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E nhancing Learning

Access the following list of videos that further discusses human person flourishing in
terms of science and technology. Take down notes on important concepts.

TITLE/AUTHOR WEBSITE
Science, Technology, and Society 8 - The Human
Person Flourishing in Terms of Science and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3LTStuXiM8
Technology
Chard Aye Alova/November 10, 2020
Module 4 Human Flourishing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3hG2em5FVA
Cyra Mae/ October 6, 2021
Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle | Book 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfVeVSss-Qw
Course Hero/April 11, 2020
Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle | Book 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_Q2C-6OdHE
Course Hero/April 11, 2020
Aristotle's Eudaimonia Explained https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zcJpDOjwtE
Philosophy Vibe/ Apr 22, 2021
What is Eudaimonia? (Ancient Greek Philosophy) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jCFtCG-_MrE
Carneades.org/ February 3, 2020
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 D eveloping Learning

LET US COLLABORATE!
Task: Form groups of 3-4 students. Each group will work together throughout the task. Engage
in an initial group discussion to share individual perspectives on human flourishing and the
potential role of science and technology in promoting it. Identify common themes and areas of
interest within the group. Conduct research individually or as a group to gather information
about human flourishing, including its components and factors influencing it. Brainstorm
potential challenges that hinder human flourishing in various contexts (e.g., healthcare,
education, environment). Look for a case study about a community facing challenges related to
human flourishing. Discuss the case study within your group and identify key issues affecting
the community's well-being. Collaboratively brainstorm innovative solutions leveraging science
and technology to address the challenges identified in the case study. Encourage each group
member to contribute ideas and perspectives based on their research and expertise. Prepare a
presentation outlining your group's proposed solutions. Include detailed explanations of each
solution, highlighting how science and technology will be utilized to promote human flourishing
in the community.

Your output should include the following:

• individual understanding or definition on what is human flourishing

• individual perspectives or ideas on how science and technology can promote
human flourishing
• summary of the case study
• key issues in the community affecting its wellbeing
• innovative solutions leveraging science and technology to address the challenges
identified in the case study

Your group output will be rated as follows:

Criteria Excellent (4) Proficient (3) Basic (2) Below Basic (1) Not Evident (0)
Group All group members Most group Some group Few group members Group
Collaboration actively contribute members actively members contribute actively participate collaboration is
to discussions, participate in intermittently to in discussions, minimal or
research, and discussions, discussions, research, or nonexistent, with
brainstorming research, and research, and brainstorming little to no
sessions. brainstorming brainstorming sessions. participation from
Contributions are sessions. sessions. Contributions are group members.
well-reasoned, Contributions are Contributions may minimal or lack
respectful, and generally respectful lack depth or fail to substance.
inclusive of diverse and demonstrate engage with diverse
perspectives. engagement. perspectives.
Understanding The group The group The group The group The group's
of Human demonstrates a demonstrates a demonstrates a demonstrates a understanding of
Flourishing thorough solid understanding basic understanding limited human flourishing
understanding of of human of human understanding of is unclear or
human flourishing, flourishing, flourishing, but human flourishing, inaccurate, and
including its including its some aspects may with significant gaps proposed solutions
components, factors components and be overlooked or or misconceptions. fail to address key
influencing it, and factors influencing underdeveloped. The The proposed aspects of human
its importance in it. The proposed proposed solutions solutions may not well-being.
society. The solutions address address some effectively address
proposed solutions key aspects of aspects of human key aspects of
are grounded in a human well-being. well-being but may human well-being.
nuanced lack depth.
understanding of
human well-being.
Criteria Excellent (4) Proficient (3) Basic (2) Below Basic (1) Not Evident (0)
Use of Science The group effectively The group The group attempts The group mentions The group does not
and integrates science incorporates to incorporate science and effectively
Technology and technology into science and science and technology in incorporate science
proposed solutions, technology into technology into proposed solutions and technology into
demonstrating a proposed solutions, proposed solutions but provides limited proposed solutions,
sophisticated demonstrating an but may overlook detail or rationale or the relevance of
understanding of understanding of opportunities or fail for their inclusion. these tools is
how these tools can their potential to to provide sufficient Solutions may lack unclear.
promote human promote human detail. Solutions feasibility or
flourishing. flourishing. may lack feasibility practicality.
Solutions are Solutions are or evidence.
innovative, feasible and
practical, and supported by
supported by evidence.
evidence.
Presentation The presentation is The presentation is The presentation The presentation is The presentation is
Quality well-organized, organized and may lack disorganized or poorly organized,
engaging, and effectively organization or difficult to follow, unclear, or
effectively communicates the coherence, hindering impeding incomplete,
communicates the group's proposed communication of communication of preventing
group's proposed solutions. Content the group's proposed the group's communication of
solutions. Content is generally clear solutions. Content proposed solutions. the group's
is clear, concise, and supported by may be overly Content may be proposed solutions.
and supported by visual aids or complex or lacking unclear or Content may be
visual aids or examples. Delivery in clarity. Delivery unsupported by inaccurate or
examples. Delivery is adequate, and may be hesitant or visual aids or unsupported, and
is confident, and group members uneven. examples. Delivery delivery may be
group members demonstrate may be hesitant or ineffective.
effectively convey understanding of ineffective.
their ideas. the material.
Reflection and The individual The individual The individual The individual The individual
Synthesis reflective journal reflective journal reflective journal reflective journal reflective journal
entry demonstrates entry demonstrates entry provides a entry offers limited entry provides
thoughtful engagement with basic overview of the engagement with the minimal or no
engagement with the collaborative collaborative process collaborative process engagement with
the collaborative process and and insights gained. and insights gained. the collaborative
process and insights gained. The The reflection may The reflection may process or insights
insights gained. The reflection provides a lack depth or fail to be superficial or fail gained. The
reflection meaningful fully engage with to demonstrate self- reflection may be
synthesizes synthesis of personal experiences awareness or critical absent or fail to
personal personal or learning thinking. address the task
experiences with experiences and outcomes. requirements.
group dynamics and learning outcomes,
learning outcomes, offering relevant
offering valuable insights and self-
insights and self- reflection.
awareness.

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