Science Technology and Society Module

Table of Contents
Unit 1: General Concepts and STS Historical Development 1

(17 hours)
Topic 1: Historical Antecedents in the Course of Science
and Technology ................................................................... 3
Topic 2: Intellectual Revolution.......................................... 12
Topic 3: Science and Technology and Nation Building .... 18
Unit 2: Science, Technology and Society and the Human
Condition (18 hours) ............................................................. 33
Topic 4: The Human Person Flourishing in terms of
Science and Technology ................................................... 35
Topic 5: Technology as a Way of Revealing ..................... 41
Topic 6: The Good Life ...................................................... 45
Topic 7: When technology and humanity cross ................ 53
Unit 3: Special Issues in Science, Technology and Society
(18 hours) ............................................................................. 65
Topic 8: Information Age ................................................... 67
Topic 9: Biodiversity and the Health Society ..................... 72
Topic 10: The Nanoworld .................................................. 82
Topic 11: The Aspects of Gene Therapy........................... 87
Topic 12: Climate Change (Mandated Topic) ................... 96
0
Unit 1:
General Concepts and
STS Historical Development
(17 hours)
Introduction
Human creativity is beyond limit that even our ancestors might not have
imagined that our status of science and technology would be as robust as
today. Our current understanding about the nature and the world is a result of
constant over throwing of paradigm wherein an old paradigm like Geocentric
Model is replaced by a paradigm that has a higher content and explanatory
power like the Heliocentric Model. Such is termed scientific revolution. This
is just one of the many theories that were challenged in the history of Science
and have helped shaped our society.
Development of Science and Technology does not only leave indelible impact
in the history but its trail can be traced by its influence in our society and
country as a whole. In this unit, you will learn how science and technology has
greatly influenced the development of the Philippine society. You will
evaluate different government policies and programs to see how they have
shaped the nation. You will also learn significant inventions and projects
accomplished by Filipinos that greatly develop the countries’ science and
technology, and have been a major contributor to the Philippine nation-
building.
This unit will allow you to time travel through the antecedents of science and
technology; lets you investigate how the present status of science and
technology came into being, and explore the major turns in the course of
global and national history that led it to its exhilarating and captivating
development.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this unit, students will be able to:
 Discuss the interactions between S&T and society throughout history;
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 Discuss how scientific and technological developments affect society
and the environment;
 Discuss the paradigm shifts through history;
 Explain how intellectual revolution change the way how humans see
the world;
 Describe the technological advancements that happened in the

information age;
 Explain the role of Science and Technology in Philippine nation

building;
 Evaluate government policies pertaining to science and technology in

terms of their contributions to nation building; and
 Identify actual science and technology policies of the government and

appraise their impact on the development of the Filipino nation.
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Topic 1: Historical Antecedents in the Course of Science
and Technology
Learning Objectives
At the end of this topic, students will be able to:
 Discuss how scientific and technological developments affect society;

and
 Explain the impact of the development of science and technology to
the environment
Activating Prior Learning
In order to understand past, one has to look back and revisit it. In like manner,
we are going to take a look at our very rich history and study what are the
major turns in the development of Science and Technology that had led us to
the innovation of cutting edge and sophisticated Technology in the present.
Your task is to fill in the K-W-L chart below by jotting down what you have
known and what are the things that you would like to know about our
historical antecedents in terms of Science and Technology.
What I already Know What I Want to know What I have Learned
Presentation of Contents
Science and Technology in Ancient Times
In the ancient times, people were concerned with transportation and

navigation, communication and record keeping, mass production, security and
protection, as well as health, aesthetics and architecture. Science and
Technology keeps on advancing in order to meet the growing needs of people
along these areas. Due to the constant innovation introduced by Science and
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Technology, which has the end goal of improving lives and making the work
easier, faster and efficient, our society respond by changing as well. These
changes are evident as each ancient civilization keep on creating technology
that has been modified and that is being used today.
To name a few, Sumerian are known for their contribution with the first
writing system called as cuneiform. Challenge to mass produce food, they
invented plowing, irrigation and dikes and wheel for farming. Throughout the
existence of this civilization, their main mode of transportation was through
waterways such as rivers and seas. They are also known to develop the first
road.
Figure 1.1 Sumerian Cuneiform ("Redirect Notice",

2019)
On the other hand, Babylonian civilization, which emerged near Tigris and
Euphrates River were famous for being great builders, engineers and
architects. One of major contributions is the hanging garden of Babylon which
one of the seven wonders of the world.
Figure 1.2 Hanging Garden of Babylon ("Image: Hanging

Gardens of Babylon - Wikipedia", 2019)
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Another civilization that is known for its renowned archeological artifact like
the death mask of Tutankhamen and Pyramid of Giza is the Egyptian
Civilization. Also, ancient Egyptians are known for their earlier contributions
like water clock or clypsedra, paper or papyrus, ink and a system of writing
known as hieroglyphics. They have also invented cosmetics for aesthetic
reason. Meanwhile, during this time, wigs were worn by wealthy Egyptians to
protect the shave of the heads from the harmful rays of the sun.
Figure 1.4 Pyramid of Giza ("Google Image

Figure 1.3 Death Mask ("Google
Result for
Image Result for
https://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynami
https://www.timetrips.co.uk/ep-
tutmask1.jpg", 2019) c/25/590x/Can-you-see-the-flaw-682241.jpg",
2019)
Figure 1.5 Papyrus ("Image:

Figure 1.6 Hieroglyphics ("Image:
Papyrus in Ancient Egypt | Essay |
Hieroglyph | writing character |
Heilbrunn Timeline of Art ...",
Britannica.com", 2019)
2019)
Apart from being the birthplace of western philosophy, some of the major
achievements of Greeks include in-depth works on Philosophy and
Mathematics. They are also celebrated for their contribution to the world like
coliseum, Olympics, alarm clock and water mill.
5
Figure 1.7 Olympics ("Image: Figure 1.6 Greek Coliseum
The Olympic Games ("Image: the coliseum (greece) -
[ushistory.org]", 2019) YouTube", 2019)
Perceived to be the strongest political and social entity in the west, Roman
Empire was considered to be the cradle of politics and governance. Other
civilizations looked up to it as a model in terms of codified laws and
legislation. They are also celebrated for the invention of newspaper, bound
books or codex. In terms of architecture and engineering, Romans are known
for building elaborate churches, basilicas, aqueducts, coliseums, amphitheaters
and residential houses. They have also devised their own number system
which is the Roman Numeral System.
Figure 1.8 Roman numeral system Figure 1. Roman aqueduct

("Google Image Result for ("Image: Roman Aqueducts—
http://historylearning.com/fileadmin/ Ancient Engineering Marvels",
user_upload/roman-numerals.jpg", 2019)
2019)
Considered to be the oldest civilization in Asia, China is known for the silk
trade, tea production, gun powder and the living legend great wall of China.
6
Figure 1.10 Silk Road ("Image: Silk Figure 1.11 The Great Wall of
Road - HISTORY", 2019) China ("Image: Great Wall -", 2019)
Science and Technology in Middle Ages
The start of the middle ages was marred by massive invasions and migrations.
Wars are prevalent during this time. As such, great technology was needed in
the fields of weaponry, navigation, food and farm production and health. The
wars have resulted to population decline. However, in the later part of this
period, there was significant increase in population. Trade and commerce
among nations increased, which resulted in greater demands for transportation
technology. Some of the most innovative minds came from this period.
To facilitate record keeping, woodlock printing developed by Chinese was

improved by the time of Johann Gutenberg with a cast type printing press.
This general invention soon evolved to be the mechanical printing press which
was eventually used all over the world. The printing press was invented to
address the need for publishing books that would spread information to many
people at a faster rate. This invention also made works accessible to
individuals who could not even write (Streissguth, 1997).
Figure 1.12 Johann Gutenberg Printing Press ("Image: Johannes

Gutenberg Printing Press Stock Photos & Johannes ...", 2019)
7
Another invention in the Middle Age is the microscope. Growing populations
caused massive migration and urbanization during the period. More and more
people transferred to polluted and populated urban areas which resulted in
more people getting sick. With this, experts needed to a device to study
microorganisms in order to develop proper medicines for illnesses. Guided by
the principles used for the invention of eyeglasses in earlier years, Zacharias
Janssen was able to develop the first compound microscope (Davidson, 2015).
Figure 1.13 Zacharias Janssen’s Microscope ("Image: Molecular

Expressions Microscopy Primer: Museum of Microscopy ...", 2019)
Since the Middle Age was also known as the Age of Exploration, the need for
nautical inventions was high. The invention of the telescope, an optical
instrument that helps in the observation of remote objects, was a great help for
navigators during this time.
Great development in the weaponry technology also occurred in this era. This
include cross bows and long bows. Additionally, in close range hand-to-hand
combat, soldiers should wear something to protect themselves, a need
addressed by the creation of iron body armors. However, body armors were
heavy and limited the movements of the soldiers, chainmail was invented to
solve the problem.
Science and Technology in Modern Times
The booming world population during the nineteenth century onwards

demanded that more goods be produced at faster rate. People needed efficient
means of transportation to trade more goods and cover a larger distance.
Machines that required animals to operate must thus be upgraded. Faster and
easier means to communicate and compute should be developed to establish
connections between and among nations. All these needs resulted in the
development of industries. However, due to massive industrialization, the
modern times again faced more complicated problems. Food processing and
medicine posed some of the bigger challenges since health was of great
concern.
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As people were able to develop better means of production to meet the needs
of the population, food preservation and food safety became an issue. Louis
Pasteur, a French biologist, microbiologist and chemist found a way to solve
the problem. He invented pasteurization, the process of heating dairy products
to kill the harmful bacteria that allow them to spoil faster. Through this
process, milk could be stored and consumed for a longer period. It also
prevented illnesses caused by harmful bacteria (Macalester College, 2010).
Other contributions of Pasteur to Science and Technology and Medicine
included his works on molecular asymmetry, fermentation and vaccination.
The modern times demanded better means of powering homes and

transportation. This led to the development of kerosene and the petroleum
refinery industry (Skrabec, 2010). At present, petroleum is widely used in
powering automobiles, factories and power plants, among others.
The more people got connected by trade and exploration, the more they
needed a way to easily maintain these connections and communicate with each
other in real time. Governments likewise needed some kind of communication
system which would allow them to administer their states well. Important day-
to-day decisions must be discussed and addressed at the fastest time possible.
Thus, the invention of telephone by Alexander Graham Bell was one of the
most important inventions at that time.
Figure 1.15 Alexander Graham Bell’s Telephone ("Image: Inventor of the

Telephone: Alexander Graham Bell - Learning History", 2019)
Although an earlier version of the calculator had already been developed,

circumstances in the modern times required a faster way to compute more
complicated equations. Computing devices must also be easy to carry since
they would be utilized on a day-to-day basis. The creation of modern
calculators did not only pave the way for easier arithmetic calculations, but
also resulted in the development of more complex processing machines like
computer.
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Application
Your task
1. Write down the top 10 invention in the World and in the Philippines
2. Determine persisting needs were addressed by each invention
3. Discuss briefly the impact of each invention to society
Feedback
1. Fill in “What I have Learned” column by writing down what you have
learned from this topic
What I already Know What I Want to know What I have Learned
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2. Create a collage on the inventions in the Philippines and the world
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Topic 2: Intellectual Revolution
Learning Objectives
 Discuss paradigm shifts through history;

 Explain how intellectual revolution changed how humans see the world;
and
 Select a revolutionary scientist and present a persuasive speech
representing his/her theory
You may have read about different theories that worked and were believed to
be true during ancient times. In Astronomy, for example, you have learned
that Sun is the Center of the Solar System and that the planets, including
Earth, are revolving around it in an elliptical orbit. However, people in ancient
times believed that the earth was the center of the universe. Early beliefs also
claimed that human beings were created through “Divine Creation” but this
was replaced by Darwin’s Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection. These
are just some of the examples of early theories that were challenged in the
history of Science.
What were the great Intellectual Revolutions that significantly shaped our
Society? What made these new theories controversial? Who were these people
or groups of people behind these upheavals that permanently changed the
course of history of Science? What were their needs, and what were their
struggles that motivated them to engage in such scholarly contribution?
This topic will lead you to some of the answers of these aforementioned
questions. Moreover, this topic describes how science and technology theories
paved the way for the Enlightenment and our current understanding of some of
the fundamental concepts of Science and of the world.
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The Man who moved the Sun
The way people think about Solar System has changed many times throughout
history. Before the development of telescope astronomy beliefs were based on
what can be seen by the naked eye. One of the earliest ideas on how Solar
System was structured was introduced by Claudius Ptolemy. He posited that
planets as well as the sun and the moon, moved in a circular motion around the
Earth, a concept which is known as geo-centrism. This geocentric model,
considered to be one of the greatest discoveries of all time, was widely
accepted by the people and became the astronomical dogma in Western
civilization for 1,400 years.
In the 16th century, Nicolaus Copernicus challenged the geocentric model by

putting sun at the center of the solar system and known as the concept of
heliocentrism. This idea was rejected at first by the public. It appalled many
since their religious belief had taught them that the Earth was created first
before all other things. Copernicus was even persecuted as a heretic.
Figure 2.1 Bold Man who challenged the Theory of Divine

Creation ("Image: Occult Science 4.0 - Heliocentric vs.
Geocentric Astrology - YouTube", 2019)
Charles Darwin was an English naturalist who studied variation in plants,

animals and fossils during a five-year voyage around the world in the 19th
century. Darwin's theory of evolution challenged the idea that God made all
the animals and plants that live on Earth in a single day, which contradicted
the commonly held Christian views of his era. He did not publish his scientific
work and ideas until 28 years after his voyage.
Finally, as a result of Darwin's world expedition and observations, which were

enhanced by many years of experimentation, his discussions with like-minded
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scientists and his developing knowledge of geology and fossils, he proposed
the theory of evolution by natural selection. Darwin proposed that: individual
organisms within a particular species show a wide range of variation for a
characteristic, individuals with characteristics most suited to the environment
are more likely to survive to breed successfully; and the characteristics that
have enabled these individuals to survive are then passed on to the next
generation. This is called Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection
Figure 2.2 Tree of Evolution ("Redirect Notice", 2019)
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Figure 2.3 Theory of Creation ("Redirect Notice", 2019)
The Father of Psychoanalysis
In the past, the field of Psychology was always classified under philosophy.
Psychology was considered more of an art rather than a science. In the late
19th century, Sigmund Freud was able to change people’s perception of
psychology with his revolutionary theory of psychoanalysis.
Psychoanalysis is the study of human behavior. In his theory, Freud explained

that there are many conscious and unconscious factors that can influence
behavior and emotions. He also argued that personality is a product of three
conflicting elements: id, ego and superego.
Figure 2.4 Theory of Psychoanalysis ("Redirect Notice", 2019)
Science hardliners brushed off the legitimacy of psychoanalysis as a science

since concepts were viewed as philosophical and supernatural. Many believed
that Freud’s theory has no scientific basis as no empirical or experimental data
could support it.
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Despite criticisms, Freud still continued to work on refining his theory and in
fact tried to explain how psychoanalysis can be a clinical method in treating
some mental disorders. Soon enough, people were able to understand the
concepts of psychoanalysis, which eventually resulted in classifying
psychology as a science.
Application
What’s New
What we had just studied are the major intellectual revolutions in the past. At
present, what are the widely acceptable theory that could explain
1. Celestial Mechanics
2. Evolution of human beings
3. Psychoanalysis
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Feedback
Direction: Conduct an interview to non-science majors about intellectual
revolutions and present the synthesis of your interview to the class. (Note:
Kindly prepare an interview schedule prior to the conduct of the interview).
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Topic 3: Science and Technology and Nation Building
Learning Objectives
 Explain the role of Science and Technology in Philippine nation

building;
 List noteworthy inventions, with their inventors, and give their major
contributions in shaping the Filipino nation;
 Identify science and technology policies of the government;
 Appraise the impact of these policies on the development of the
Filipino nation; and
 Recognize the need for balance between freedom and responsible
behavior during the exchange of ideas.
Now, let us see what you know about the role of science and technology by
completing the concept map below. But before that, you may want to watch
the movie clips and read the short article listed below to get some ideas.
Happy watching and reading!
Questions to Ponder:
1. What roles do science and technology play in the developmental
progress of the country?
Watch: 1. Science and Technology: Moving the Philippines Forward

Link: https://youtu.be/9li8S3L5p2Q
2. The State of Science and Technology in the Philippines
Link: https://youtu.be/_ttaqZf-SMg
Read: 1. Ratnasiri, N., 2006. The role of Science and Technology in nation
building. Journal of the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka,
34(3), p.113. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/jnsfsr.v34i3.3640
From your readings and from the videos you watched, complete the diagram
below by enumerating the roles of science and technology in shaping the
nation. Then, choose one from your list and explain it to the class.
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Role of S & T in
Nation Building
Good job! Let’s learn more as you go through this lesson.
Brief Historical Background of Science and Technology in the Philippines
Pre – Colonial Period
Even before the Spain colonized the country, some indigenous science and
technology has already existed with regards to agriculture like farming, animal
– raising, and the utilization of plants and herbs as medicines. The use of
technology is evident in the in handicrafts, pottery, weaving, and tools used by
ancient Filipinos in their everyday life.
Innovation and ingenuity were unmistakable by the way native Filipinos built
the rice terraces by hand. They also developed tools for planting, hunting,
cooking, fishing, and also for fighting enemies during tribal conflicts. They
used indigenous technology in building houses, irrigations and transportation,
both on land and on waterways.
The ancient practices in science and technology by our ancestors are now
considered as indigenous science or folk science.
Colonial Period
Spanish colonization paved way to modern means of construction. Roads,

bridges, churches, and other large infrastructures were built with more
sophistication using some engineering skills and tools brought by the
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Spaniards. In addition, Spanish colonizers developed health and education
system in the country.
The American colonial rule modernized almost all aspects of life in the
country. They established the Bureau of Science to initiate the development in
the field of science and technology.
Post – Colonial Period
After achieving independence from the colonial masters, the Philippines,

under different administrations, continued to pursue programs in science and
technology. Each leadership had its own S&T agenda. However, it is
important to note that some Philippine presidents introduced more
developments in the field than others, which you will find out soon as you
course through this topic.
Filipino Presidents and their Contributions in the Development of Science

and Technology in the Philippines
Philippine Presidents and the Status of S&T during their administration
Pres. Carlos P. Garcia (1957 - 1961)
-lack of support of experimental work

-marginal budget for scientific research
-low salaries of scientists employed by the government
-established the National Science Development Board
Pres. Ferdinand Marcos (1965 - 1986)
-directed the Department of Education to revitalize the science

courses in public high schools
- channelled additional funds to support projects in applied sciences
and science education
- he proclaimed 35 hectares in Bicutan, Taguig, Rizal as the site of
the Philippine Science Community
- scholarships for graduate and undergraduate science scholars, and workshops on
fisheries and oceanography
- added the Philippine Coconut Research Institute to the NSDB to modernize the
coconut industry.
- support for the promotion of scientific research and invention with Presidential
Decree No. 49, s. 1972
- he enacted a law under Presidential Decree No. 1003-A, s. 1976 to establish the
National Academy of Science and Technology
- He enacted a law on the completion of the National Agriculture and Life
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Sciences Research Complex at the University of the Philippines at Los Baños
(Executive Order No. 840, s. 1982)
- he established the Mindanao and Visayas campuses of the Philippine Science
High School to encourage careers in science and technology
-established other research institutes like PAGASA, National Grains Authority,
Philippine Council for Agricultural Research, Philippine National Oil Company
among others
Pres. Corazon Aquino (1986 - 1992)
- National Science and Technology Authority was replaced by the

Department of Science and Technology
- science and technology's role in economic recovery and sustained
economic growth was highlighted
- created the Presidential Task Force for Science and Technology which came up
with the first Science and Technology Master Plan or STMP
- Executive Order No.128 abolished R.A. No. 3859, also known as the “Philippine
Inventors Incentive Act.”
- gave assistance to Filipino inventors through giving financial aid, patent
application assistance, legal assistance, and to help inventors market their
products domestically and abroad
- R.A. 6655 or the Free Public Secondary Education Act of 1988 opened doors to
free education up to the secondary level
- “Science for the Masses Program” which aimed at scientific and technological
literacy among Filipinos
Pres. Fidel V. Ramos (1992 - 1998)
-significant increase in personnel specializing in the science and

technology field
-addition of Philippine Science High Schools in Visayas and
Mindanao
- government provided 3,500 scholarships for students who were
taking up professions related to S&T
- Schools were becoming more modernized and updated with the addition of high-
tech equipment for student
- Priority for S&T personnel increased when Magna Carta for Science and
Technology Personnel (Republic Act No. 8439) was established
- award was published in order to give incentives and rewards for people who
have been influential in the field of S&T (Inventors and Inventions Incentives Act
or Republic Act No. 7459)
- programs such as National Program for Gifted Filipino Children in Science and
Technology
-enactment of a law creating a nationwide system of high schools specializing in
the field of science and engineering (Science and Technology Scholarship Law of
1994)
- enacted the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines (Republic Act No.
8293)
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Pres. Joseph Estrada (1998 - 2001)
launched a full-scale program based on cost-effective irrigation

technologies
- establishment of one science high school in every province
- advancement of industries and schools into the Internet age,
-passage of the e-Commerce Act
Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (2001 - 2010)
- the science and technology sector of the Philippines was dubbed

as the "golden age“ during her term
- Numerous laws and projects that concerns both the environment
and science to push technology as a tool to increase the country's
economic level
- the term "Filipinnovation" was the coined term used in helping the Philippines to
be an innovation hub in Asia
- Science Technology and Innovations (STI) was developed further by
strengthening the schools and education system such as the Philippine Science
High School (PSHS), which focuses in science, technology and mathematics in
their curriculum
- imposes Republic Act 10601 which improves the Agriculture and Fisheries
Sector through Mechanization (AFMech)
(Images from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Presidents_of_the_Philippines)
Filipino Scientists and their Inventions
Here is a list of some Filipino scientists and inventors, together with their
contributions in shaping the science and technology of the Filipino nation.
Dr. Arturo Alcaraz
Dr. Arturo Alcaraz is a volcanologist specializing in geothermal

energy development. In 1967, Arturo Alcaraz and team powered an
electric light bulb using steam-powered electricity. This was the first
geothermal power generated in the Philippines.
Julian Banzon (1908 - 1988)
Filipino chemist, Julian Banzon researched methods of producing

alternative fuels. Julian Banzon experimented with the production
of ethyl esters fuels from sugarcane and coconut.
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Pedro Escuro (1923 - )
Filipino scientist, Pedro Escuro is best known for his isolation of
nine rice varieties, thus was renowned by developing rice breeding
in the country. The Pedro Escuro rice varieties are: Milpal 4,
HBD-2, Azmil 26 and C-22 and C-18, C4-63, C4-137, C-168 and
C-12.
Dr. Francisco Fronda (1896 - 1986)
Dr. Francisco Fronda is known as the Father of poultry science in

the Philippines. Francisco Fronda has improved methods of
production for the poultry and livestock industry.
Felix Maramba
Felix Maramba built a coconut oil-fueled power generator. He

also is the developer of one of the world's most profitable biogas
systems.
Luz Oliveros Belardo (1906 - 1999)
Filipino chemist, Luz Oliveros Belardo researched the

phytochemical properties of plants in the Philippines for natural
products, essential oils, and the medicinal qualities.
Emerita De Guzman
Filipino scientist Emerita De Guzman researched the propagation

of pure macapuno trees. Her research led to the faster propagation
of pure macapuno trees and increased macapuno nut production
from 3-5 macapuno nuts to 14-19 nuts (1980). She also invented
tissue culture techniques for the rapid propagation of abaca and
banana plants.
Dr. Fe Del Mundo (1911 - 2011)
Filipino doctor, Fe Del Mundo is credited with studies that lead to

the invention of an improved incubator and a jaundice relieving
device.
Gregorio Zara (1902 - 1978)
Famous Filipino Scientist, Gregorio Zara invented, made

improvements to, or discovered the following: invented the two-
way television telephone or videophone (1955) patented as a
"photo phone signal separator network"; discovered the physical
law of electrical kinetic resistance called the Zara effect (around 1930); invented
an airplane engine that ran on plain alcohol as fuel (1952).
(Google image result for Famous Filipino Scientists or Inventors)
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For more information, please go to the links provided below, then watch and
read the following:
Watch: 1. Juan’s Top 5 Filipino Inventions at https://youtu.be/RU21nUiKaoc
Read: 1. The Philippine Men and Women of Science.

http://spheres.dost.gov.ph/manuscript/PMWS27.pdf
2. Philippine Great Inventions
Application
Let’s have some practice, shall we?
Activity 1: Take a Roll on the Roles
Form groups of 5 and choose 1 role of S & T from the diagram you did at the
beginning of this topic, then perform a simple role-play that manifests the role
of S & T that you have picked. Below is a rubric to rate your performance. Do
this within 15 minutes. Enjoy acting!
Exceeds Expectation Meets Expectation Needs Improvement

Criteria
(3 points) (2 points) (1 point)
 Factual information  Factual information is  Information is

Understandi is accurate mostly accurate inaccurate
ng of Topic  Indicates a clear  Good understanding  Presentation is off
understanding of of topic topic
topic
 Accepts ideas of  Accepts most ideas  Group does not work
others; able to without negative together
Teamwork compromise comments; able to  One person does all
 All members compromise the work
contribute  Some members
contribute
 Shows confidence  Shows some  Portrayal stalls
 Informative confidence  Lacks information
 Entertaining;  Presents some  Audience bored
Presentation engages audience information  Mumbles
 Speaks loudly and  Engages audience  Body language is
clearly  Can be heard lacking; inappropriate
 Appropriate use of  Some use of body
body language language
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Activity 2: Back Through Time
A. This activity is meant for you to revisit our country’s rich historical
background on its journey to scientific and technological progress.
Your class will be divided into 5 groups, where each group shall
choose one period to elaborate the development of S&T in each period
and its contributions and implications to the present society. Complete
the table below.
a. Early Filipino/ Pre – colonial period

b. Spanish Colonization
c. American Regime
d. Japanese Colonization
e. Post – colonial period
Science Implications
Contribution culture and of S&T and
State of of the period practices/ science
Period S&T during in the Society’s culture of
the period development norms each period
of S&T during the to the
period present
Note: Please read the article below for additional information
A History of Science and Technology in the Philippines by Olivia C. Caoili

Link: https://tuxdoc.com/download/history-of-science-and-technology-in-the-
philippines_pdf#download-require
A. Retaining your group, make a 3 – 5-minute skit portraying the

development of S&T in the period/era you are working on. Present
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your skit to the class next meeting. The rubrics below will serve as
your guide, and basis for rating your performance.

Criteria

topic
contribute
Activity 3: New Generation Science Genius
Utilizing internet resources, find photos of modern Filipino scientists and their
respective inventions/ discoveries. Describe the inventions and their major
contributions in the development of our nation.
26
Feedback
1. List some policies/programs of the government that steers the nation’s

Science and Technology forward. Describe these policies briefly, and
give their Pros, as well as their Cons. Support your claims by citing
examples of their positive/negative impact to our nation’s
development.
Policy/ Program Pros (with Positive Cons (with Negative

Impacts) Impacts)
1.
2.
27
3.
4.
2. Take photos that depict the use of science/technology in your community,

and compile them to make a photo album. Upload your work in social media,
and try to elicit comments from the viewers, then have a sharing with the class
next meeting.
28
Summary
In this unit, you have learned the different contributions to Science and
Technology of each epoch of human history- Ancient, Medieval and Modern
Times. Necessity and adversity drive people to think and invent technology to
address the needs and problems they encountered in everyday life. These
inventions paved way to major developments from ancient to modern society
and along with it, the transmission of scientific and technological knowledge
that influenced our very own notion of the world.
The advent of technology opens the door for more scientific endeavors in the
quest of unravelling the mysteries of the natural world, and hence the birth of
scientific revolution. The revolution had sparked human creativity and critical
thinking, and by this time, many a discovery and scientific ideas were
developed, and new scientific paradigms were generated which had
overthrown previous paradigms. This manifests that scientific knowledge is
not permanent, and subject to constant change through careful research and
experimentation.
In the Philippines, even before period of colonization, our society has been
faring on its improvement in terms of Science and Technology especially in
agriculture, handicraft and medicine. During colonization, there was a slow
growth of S&T since majority of its sophistication is brought about by the
foreign invaders. The establishment of Bureau of Science by Americans paved
the way for the initial growth of S&T in the country. During post-colonial
period where Philippines had given the autonomy for executive,
administrative, judicial and legislative operations, different programs and
policies of the government gear towards reinforcing progress of S&T. Many
Filipinos were renowned not only in the national but also around the global
society for their outstanding feat.
29
Reflection
Think about these

1. What value of a scientist have you learned from the major revolutions?
Why?
2. What could be the consequences if these major intellectual revolutions

did not take place?
3. What value of a scientist have you learned from the major revolutions?
Why?
4. What could be the consequences if these major intellectual revolutions

did not take place?
5. Did science and technology change your way of life? Was it in a good
way, otherwise, or both? Explain how.
30
References:
A History of Science and Technology in the Philippines by Olivia C. Caoili

Retrieved from: https://tuxdoc.com/download/history-of-science-and-technology-in-
the-philippines_pdf#download-require
McNamara, D., Valverde, V., & Beleno, R. (2018). Science, Technology, and Society
(1st ed., pp. 1-128). Quezon City: C&E Publishing Inc.
Ratnasiri, N., 2006. The role of Science and Technology in nation building. Journal of
the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka, 34(3), p.113. DOI:
http://doi.org/10.4038/jnsfsr.v34i3.3640
Web Sources:
Redirect Notice. (2019). Retrieved from https://bit.ly/2xrHBDz
Image: Hanging Gardens of Babylon - Wikipedia. (2019). Retrieved from

https://bit.ly/2XlPv0B
Google Image Result for https://www.timetrips.co.uk/ep-tutmask1.jpg. (2019).

Retrieved from https://urlzs.com/RVGm7
Google Image Result for https://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/25/590x/Can-

you-see-the-flaw-682241.jpg. (2019). Retrieved from https://urlzs.com/FRWES
Image: Papyrus in Ancient Egypt | Essay | Heilbrunn Timeline of Art ... (2019).
Retrieved from https://urlzs.com/zFc6U
Image: Hieroglyph | writing character | Britannica.com. (2019). Retrieved from

https://bit.ly/2XjQ4b7
Image: the coliseum (greece) - YouTube. (2019). Retrieved from

https://urlzs.com/pbCTX
Image: The Olympic Games [ushistory.org]. (2019). Retrieved from

https://urlzs.com/vD5wU
Google Image Result for http://historylearning.com/fileadmin/user_upload/roman-

numerals.jpg. (2019). Retrieved from https://urlzs.com/EnPPz
Image: Roman Aqueducts— Ancient Engineering Marvels. (2019). Retrieved from

https://urlzs.com/ePC9t
Image: Silk Road - HISTORY. (2019). Retrieved from https://urlzs.com/ittbA
Image: Great Wall -. (2019). Retrieved from https://urlzs.com/xH83x
Image: Molecular Expressions Microscopy Primer: Museum of Microscopy ... (2019).

Retrieved from https://urlzs.com/fAo55
Image: Ιnventor of the Telephone: Alexander Graham Bell - Learning History. (2019).
Retrieved from https://urlzs.com/ASZiC
Redirect Notice. (2019). Retrieved from

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwiW8Kaqy5rjAh
31
VEA4gKHUNtA-
YQjRx6BAgBEAU&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pinterest.com%2Fpin%2F846606429
926395000%2F&psig=AOvVaw2Sl_sc8daokDiWkZShMf4F&ust=1562306475204989
Image: Occult Science 4.0 - Heliocentric vs. Geocentric Astrology - YouTube. (2019).
Retrieved from https://urlzs.com/jFeHS
Redirect Notice. (2019). Retrieved from https://bit.ly/2RTR14c
Image: The 15 Presidents of the Republic of the Philippines. Retrieved from:

https://nobert-bermosa.blogspot.com/2011/06/15-presidents-of-republic-of.html
Images from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Presidents_of_the_Philippines
Science and Technology: Moving the Philippines Forward. Retrieved from

https://youtu.be/9li8S3L5p2Q
The State of Science and Technology in the Philippines. Retrieved from

https://youtu.be/_ttaqZf-SMg
Juan’s Top 5 Filipino Inventions at https://youtu.be/RU21nUiKaoc
The Philippine Men and Women of Science. Retrieved from:

http://spheres.dost.gov.ph/manuscript/PMWS27.pdf
32
Unit 2:
Science, Technology and Society and the

Human Condition (18 hours)
Introduction
There can be no doubt that we are rapidly moving towards a global society,
spanning the whole earth. Yet this global society derives its unity not from
philosophy or religion, but rather from technology. Technology is improving
life and improving it fast. It is technology that is leading to the
homogenization of all forms of social interaction and communication,
irrespective of their historical and cultural provenance. It is technology that is
creating a shared horizon for economic productivity, just as it is technology
that permits the limitless accumulation of public wealth. Technology is the
salient social activity of human beings as a species and, as an activity, and is
both cumulative and linear, irrespective of its consequences for human
happiness.
In this chapter, we will be discussing the different conceptions of human

flourishing, which connotes the “well-being” and “happiness” of men and
suggests positive emotional experiences. Also, the development of scientific
method and validity of science, human flourishing vis-à-vis progress of
science and technology. It has been noted that human flourishing in our
present societies seem dwarfed by difficulties, not only in the developing
world, but also in the developed world.
Also, this chapter covers the concept of human condition before and after the
existence of science and technology and ways on how technology aided in
revealing the truth about human being.
Furthermore, we will also be discussing the meaning of a good life and the
different possibilities available in attaining a good life and happiness. It will
point out how humans strive to become happy, achieve a comfortable and
convenient life and the desire to make the work lighter, easier and faster.
33
Finally, we shall also be taking up the different technological advancements in
society, development of Science and Technology in the Philippines and the
effects of the interplay between technology and humanity through dilemmas
where the world is entering a period of transformative change, and many of
people will be surprised by the developments they simply hadn’t anticipated.
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this unit, student can:
 Analyze the human condition in order to deeply reflect and

express philosophical ratifications that are meaningful to the
student as a part of society;
 Criticize human flourishing vis-à-vis the progress of science

and technology so that the student can define for himself/herself
the meaning of the good life;
 Examine shared concerns that make up the good life in order to

come up with innovative, creative solutions to contemporary
issues guided by ethical standards;
 Examine human rights in order to uphold such rights in

technological ethical dilemmas;
 Evaluate contemporary human experience in order to strengthen

and enlighten the human person functioning in society; and
 Find and examine local government policies that protect the

wellbeing of the person in the face of new technologies.
34
Topic 4: The Human Person Flourishing in terms of
Science and Technology
Learning Objectives
After successful completion of this module, you should be able to:

 analyze the steps in scientific method;
 explain the concepts of human flourishing and their importance for the
“common good” and present examples;
 enumerate some career jobs related to science and technology that lead
to human flourishing.
Activating Prior Knowledge
Learning Activity: SPOT THE SCIENTIFIC METHOD
Direction: Each sentence below describes a step of the scientific method.

Match each sentence with the step of the scientific method listed below.
A. Recognize the problem
B. Making Observation
C. Form a hypothesis
D. Test the hypothesis with an experiment
E. Draw conclusions
______________ 1. Mark predicted that seeds would start to grow faster if an
electric current
travelled through the soil in which they were planted.
______________ 2. Scott said, “If I fertilize my orchid plants, they will
blossom.” stronger
when she gave the hen feed, to which extra calcium had
been added.
______________ 3. Philip’s data showed that household cockroaches moved
away from raw
mangoes.
______________ 4. Ameera fed different diets to three groups of tilapia. Her
experiment
showed that tilapias need vitamins and protein in their
diet.
______________ 5. Angela’s experiment proved that earthworms move away
from light.
______________ 6. Justine wondered if dyes could be taken out of plant
35
leaves, flowers and
stems.
______________ 7. Kathy used a survey to determine how many classmates
were left-handed
and how many were right-handed.
______________ 8. Bob read about growing plants in water. He wanted to
know how plants
could grow without soil.
______________ 9. Kevin said “If acid rain affects plants in a particular pond,
it might affect
small animals, such as crabs, that live in the same water.”
______________10. Alicia’s experiment showed that chicken eggshells were
Problems that you encounter could be solved by simple ways. Maria could
have solved her problem if she tried to approach it systematically. This lesson
will introduce you to the scientific method. The scientific method is a logical
and systematic way of solving a problem.
Making Observation and Stating the Problem
Different things happen around you. As you notice these, you take a mental
note of what you see, hear, feel, smell or taste. These mental notes are your
observations. On the space below, write five things that you can observe
around you right now.
1. _________________________________________________________
_____________
2. _________________________________________________________
_____________
3. _________________________________________________________
_____________
4. _________________________________________________________
_____________
5. _________________________________________________________
_____________
Choose one observation from your list above. Choose the most interesting and
from that, compose your statement of the problem.
Statement of the problem:

_____________________________________________________________
Formulating the Hypothesis
Your statement of the problem must have an answer. But at this point, you still
36
do not have a definite one, so you formulate your hypothesis. A hypothesis is a
logical guess that answers the question or problem. It could be correct or
incorrect, which is what you will find out in the next step. You could have
more than one hypothesis, but you will consider them one at a time in the
succeeding steps.
Answer your statement of the problem by formulating three hypotheses.

1. _________________________________________________________
_____________
2. _________________________________________________________
_____________
3. _________________________________________________________
_____________
Testing the Hypothesis with experiment
After proposing possible answer to the problem, you should prove whether
your hypotheses are true or not. This could be through experiments, test, or
research. You need to plan how you would test your hypothesis by logically
writing down the steps that you will do.
Since you will be writing down steps of a procedure, your methodology

should be numbered and logically arranged. It should contain practical
procedures, which are significant to the study being conducted.
Choose one among the hypotheses you formulated. On the space below, write
the procedure on how you will test the hypothesis.
1. _________________________________________________________
_____________
2. _________________________________________________________
_____________
3. _________________________________________________________
_____________
4. _________________________________________________________
_____________
Stating the Conclusion
At this point, you now know if your hypothesis answered your question. If it
did, you just restate your hypothesis as your conclusion. If it did not, then you
need to test other hypotheses.
Human Flourishing
According to Aristotle, there is an end of all of the actions that we perform

which we desire for itself. This is what is known as eudaimonia, flourishing,
or happiness, which is desired for its own sake with all other things being
desired on its account. Eudaimonia is a property of one's life when considered
as a whole. Flourishing is the highest good of human endeavors and that
37
toward which all actions aim. It is success as a human being. The best life is
one of excellent human activity.
For Aristotle, the good is what is good for purposeful, goal-directed entities.
He defines the good proper to human beings as the activities in which the life
functions specific to human beings are most fully realized. For Aristotle, the
good of each species is teleologically immanent to that species. A person's
nature as a human being provides him with guidance with respect to how he
should live his life. A fundamental fact of human nature is the existence of
individual human beings each with his own rational mind and free will. The
use of one's volitional consciousness is a person's distinctive capacity and
means of survival.
One's own life is the only life that a person has to live. It follows that, for
Aristotle, the "good" is what is objectively good for a particular man.
Aristotle's eudaimonia is formally egoistic in that a person's normative reason
for choosing particular actions stems from the idea that he must pursue his
own good or flourishing. Because self-interest is flourishing, the good in
human conduct is connected to the self-interest of the acting person. Good
means "good for" the individual moral agent. Egoism is an integral part of
Aristotle's ethics.
Application
Activity 1: Applying the Scientific Method
Direction: Follow the scientific method focusing on what you can

immediately observe that is happening in the environment at 8 o’clock in the
morning. Use the data sheet below to write down your answers. For the data
analysis, assume that you performed the test and were able to prove that your
hypothesis is an answer to the problem.
Location of Observation:
______________________________________________________________
I. Making Observations and stating the Problem

____________________________________________________________
_____________
____________________________________________________________
_____________
____________________________________________________________
_____________
II. Formulating Hypothesis
1. _________________________________________________________
_____________
2. _________________________________________________________
38
_____________
3. _________________________________________________________
_____________
III. Testing the Hypothesis with an experiment
1. _________________________________________________________
_____________
2. _________________________________________________________
_____________
3. _________________________________________________________
_____________
4. _________________________________________________________
_____________
5. _________________________________________________________
_____________
IV. Stating the Conclusion

____________________________________________________________
_____________
Guide Questions:
1. What do you think will happen if the steps in scientific method are in
different order?
2. If you would be adding more steps to the scientific method, what
would be these steps? Discuss the additional steps you are proposing.
Activity 2: Role Play

Direction: Break up your class into groups of four or five students. Each
group will role play the Golden Rule “Do not do unto others what you want
others do unto you” After the role each group will answer the following guide
questions.
Guide Question:
1.What role do your relationships with others have in the development of

meaning in your life?
2. How would you categorize what is important in life and what is not?
Activity 2: G-R-E-A-T-W-O-R-K
39
Complete the mind map below by writing words that come to your mind when
you hear the word science and technology.
Feedback
From the picture below describe and assess the evolution and development of
science and technology along fields of medicine, agriculture, education,
information and technology and many more.
(Source: Fundamentals of Science and Technology, www.tutorialspoint.com)
Figure: 4.1
40
Topic 5: Technology as a Way of Revealing
Learning Objectives
After successful completion of this topic, you should be able to:
 Explain the concept of human condition before science and technology;

 Identify the change that happened in human condition after science and
Technology and
 Name ways on how technology aided in revealing the truth about the human
being
Reaction Paper Writing
Make a reaction on the saying “Comparing the lives of people before and now
will make anyone realize the changes that happened in society not just in terms
of culture, language or rights, but more importantly, changes in people’s way of
life due to the existence of science and technology”.
Film Viewing
You will be asked to view the Film: Akiro Kurosawa’s Dreams “Village of the
Watermills”
After the film viewing, you are now directed to make a collage You will be
needing the following materials in the activity below.
Coloring pens/crayons, Pentel pen, Pencil, Colored old magazines, Pictures from
the web, Scissors, Cartolina, Glue, Bond papers
Using the materials listed above, make a collage by cutting pictures in magazines
or newspapers or make illustrations that will demonstrate human condition
before the common era and the human condition during the common era and.
You may include their day to day activities, their ways of achieving survival and
their strategies to attain high productivity. You may opt to print pictures using
the web.
After making the collage, you may list down notable human conditions before
the common era and during the common era and briefly discuss these conditions.
41
1.Before the Common Era
2. During the Common Era
Our early ancestors’ primal need to survive paved the way for the invention of
several developments. As we always claim that humans are gifted with wisdom
and more advanced than any other creatures, our ancestors were able to utilize
available materials to make their life more comfortable.
In your own perspective, how has technology affected the following aspects
given the two-time frames? Fill out the table below.
Human Conditions Before the common During the common

era era
Mortality Rate
Average Life Span
42
Literacy Rate
Gross Domestic
Product
Application
Activity 2: Role Playing
You are now dependent on the comforts of what technology has brought to us.
This time, try to imagine our world without technology? How do you think our
daily routine would be like? Demonstrate a scenario where certain technological
innovation does not exist. You may form a group of five and use any
technological advancement for your role playing
Science and technology have aided us in survival and helped us outsmart our
adversaries, provided us comfortable life, allowed us to explore the world and
assisted us in discovering more about ourselves and the truth.
-Unknown
Feedback
Activity 3: Hear Their Voice
Following your groupings, make a survey from different groups with minimum
of 50 interviewees per group as follows:
Group 1- BSIT Students

Group 2- CTED Students
Group 3- CCJE Students
Group 4- CA Students
Gropu 5- Faculty Members
43
Group 6- Administrative Personnel
Each group should elicit their answers to the following questions below.
Summarize their responses and rank the said responses.
1. What would have happened to humankind if technology did not exist?

2. Do you agree with Martin Heidegger in his idea that technology should
only be seen as one of the approaches in perceiving truth? What other
approaches you know that can be considered?
44
Topic 6: The Good Life
Learning Objectives
 Examine what is meant by a good life in various philosophies;

 Examine what you consider to be the good life and determine which
philosophy that represents;
 Identify how humans attempt to attain what is deemed to be a good
life;
 Recognize possibilities available to human beings to attain the good
life; and
 Examine shared concerns that make up the good life in order to come
up with innovative, creative solutions and ethical solutions.
Checkpoint 1
“The truth is the aim of the theoretical sciences, the good is the end goal of
the practical ones. Every attempt to know is connected in some way in an
attempt to find the good”.
Aristotle
Materials
You will be needing the following materials in the activity below.
Coloring pens/crayons, Pentel pen, Pencil, Colored old magazines, Pictures

from the web, Scissors, Cartolina, Glue, Bond papers
Using the materials listed above, make a good life collage by cutting pictures
in magazines or newspapers that demonstrate how technology has made the
man’s desire for a happy life more realizable. You may opt to print pictures
using the web.
45
What is Good Life as Perceived by different schools of thought?
Aristotle and Good Life
It is interesting to note that the first philosopher who approached the problem
of reality from scientific lens is Aristotle who is also the first thinker who
dabbled into the complex problematization of the end goal of life: happiness.
Compared to his predecessor and teacher, Plato, Aristotle embarked on

different approach in figuring out reality. Plato thought that things in this
world are not real and are only copies of the real in the world of forms. While
Aristotle puts everything back to the ground in claiming that this world is all
there and that this world is the only reality, we can all access.
Aristotle also forwarded the idea that there is no 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 reality is all about. Change is a
process that is inherent in things. We, along with all other entities in the world
start as potentialities and move towards actualities. The movement, of course,
entails change.
https://wellbeingmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/seedling-
growth.jpg
Figure 6.1
46
Look at the seed in the picture. It eventually germinates and grows into a
plant. The seed that turned to become the plant underwent change from the
potential plant that is the seed to its full actuality.
This can be likened to what Aristotle says that every human person aspires for
an end. This end is happiness or human flourishing. And no one resists
happiness because we all want to be happy.
Materialism
The first materialists were the atomists in Ancient Greece. Democritus and
Leucippus led a school whose primary belief is that the world is made up of
and is controlled by the tiny indivisible units in the world called atomos or
seeds. Accordingly, the world including human beings, is made up of matter
and there is no need to possess immaterial entities as sources of purpose.
Atoms simply comes together randomly to form the things in the world. As
such, only material entities matter.
https://zenfulspirit.com/2018/02/16/materialism/
Figure 6.2
In terms of human flourishing, matter is what makes us attain happiness. The

material things we possess give us ultimate happiness. We see this at work
with most people who are clinging on to material wealth as the primary source
of meaning of their existence.
47
Hedonism
The Hedonists see the end goal of life in acquiring pleasure. Pleasure has
always been the priority of hedonists. For them life is obtaining and indulging
in pleasure because life is limited. They believe that pleasure give meaning to
their life without thinking of the future. The mantra of this school of thought is
the famous, “Eat, drink and merry for tomorrow we will die.
https://australianluxuryboatsales.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/boat-
1024x683.jpg
Figure 6.3
Stoicism
Another school of thought led by Epicurus, the stoics, exposed the idea that to
generate happiness, one must learn to distance oneself and be apathetic. The
original term apatheia, precisely means to be indifferent. These group believe
that they can do things at their own and believe that happiness can only be
attained by a careful practice of apathy.
48
http://lyfetainment.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/1.-Can-Loneliness-Kill-You-Why-
You- Feel-Lonely.jpg
Figure 6.4
Theism
Most people find the meaning of their lives using God as the fulcrum of their
existence. The Philippines, as predominantly country, is witness to how people
base their life goals on beliefs that hinged on some form of supernatural reality
called heaven. The ultimate basis of happiness for theists is the communion
with God.
https://coffeewiththelord.files.wordpress.com/2019/04/god-
alone.jpg?w=350&h=200&crop=1
Figure 6.5
Humanism
Humanism as another school of thought espouses the freedom of man to carve
his own destiny and to legislate his own laws, free from the shackles of a God
that monitors and controls. For humanists, man is literally the captain of his
own ship. They see themselves not merely as stewards of the creation but as
individuals who are in control of themselves and the world outside them.
49
As a result of the motivation of the humanist current, scientists eventually
turned to technology in order to ease the difficulty of life. Scientists of today
meanwhile are ready to confront more sophisticated attempts at altering the
world for the benefit of humanity. Some people now are willing to tamper
with time and space in the name of technology.
https://soheefit.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Screenshot-2014-04-10-
13.04.01.png
Figure 6.5
Application
Acitivity2: Fill in the blanks
Using the table below, list down the different advantages and disadvantages of
the different schools of thought in attaining good life and happiness.
School of Thought Advantages Disadvantages

1. Materialism
50
2. Hedonism
3. Stoicism
4. Theism
5. Humanism
51
Feedback
Activity 3: Think about these questions
1. What is a good life?

2. What is the relationship between good life and science?
3. Does technology always lead us to the good life? Support your answer.
Now you are ready to take a quiz for today’s discussion.
52
Topic 7: When technology and humanity cross
Learning Objectives
After successful completion of this topic, students will be able to:
 List examples of technology and give their risks and benefits to

humanity;
 Examine some technological advancements and ethical issues they
entail; and
 Discuss the interplay between technology and humanity.
Are you ready for your next topic? I’m sure you are! As a start, let’s do this
preparatory activity especially prepared for you. Happy learning!
Using a graphic organizer, list down some technology you see or you use at
home, at school or in your community, and in social media. Categorize them
according to their purpose (transportation, communication, education, etc.).
Describe briefly how you or the community use these technologies you
mention.
53
Great work! Now let’s proceed to the next section of this module.
https://www.google.com.ph/search?q=technology+and+humanity
Figure 7.1.
When technology and humanity cross… Will it be a convergence or a clash between
man and machine?
54
Television sets, Mobile phones, Computers, and Humanity
A number of technological devices can be easily found inside the home, the
most accessible place to anyone. Having said that, it can also be easily
inferred that these technological devices are some of the most popular and
most commonly used types of devices across all age groups. To be more
specific, these “celebrities” in the field of technology are television sets,
mobile phones, and computers. People all over the world use these
technologies every day to accomplish different purposes.
In television, used mainly as a platform for advertisements and information

dissemination. It remains to be the most used avenue by
different advertisement companies not only in the
Philippines but also all over the world. Various
advertising companies trust that television is still one of
the most used technological devices up until today. It
also serves as a recreational activity and good stress
reliever to most families, specifically to Filipino
families. Television also is a good platform for Komando.com
different propagandas and advocacies. Lastly, it can Figure 7.2
also be a good way to bond with one’s family members.
In mobile phones, used primarily for

communication. It offers services like
texting and calling. In the past, these
were the only functions of the mobile
phone but as technology progressed,
there have been many additional features
included on mobile phones. In the
canstockphoto.com present, people use their mobile phones
Figure 7.3
to surf the Internet and to take pictures
more than 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 available. These make this particular technological device very appealing
to the masses. Additionally, it is very portable and convenient because it can
fit into any space, may it be inside the pocket or bag.
55
Computers and laptops, on the other hand, can be used to surf the Internet and
communicate. For a lot of people, they prefer to do their job using either a
personal computer or a laptop than a mobile phone. Personal computer or a
laptop has wide keyboard, wide screens and separate keyboards than mobile
phones. Another reason is that the
availability of a mouse or a touchpad made
these two technological devices easier to
maneuver than mobile phones. Lastly, for
the youth and those who love to play
different computer games, personal
computers or laptops are really the better
choice because these allow them play with
comfort and convenience.
http://crossram.co.uk
Figure 7.4
Ethical Dilemma Faced by these technological advancements

It is true that these technological devices are useful and beneficial, the fact
remains that there are several dilemmas faced by these “necessities”. First,
most parents would argue that these devices make their children lazy and
unhealthy. This is because of the fact that people who are fixated on these
technological advancements start and end their day by using such devices. For
example, those who love to watch television shows stay in front of the
television for more than six hours a day while those who love to surf the
Internet or play computer games stay on their laptops, computers, or mobile
phones for more than half a day. These people have the tendency to be
unaware of the time because they are so engrossed with the use of
technological device. Also, there are the same people who are more likely to
experience alienation because they no longer take time to get out their houses
and mingle with other people. It is really concerning to know that there are
people who develop different kinds of sickness because of too much use of
technological devices. The agents using the devices are the ones to be blamed
for the undesirable consequences, namely, laziness and unhealthiness. In terms
of alienation, it can be concluded that the people in the scientific-technological
world are blameworthy because they tell the people something that seems
positive but when examined closely, brings worse than good.
Another dilemma faced by these technological devices is the moral dilemma.

People, especially the children who are not capable yet of rationally deciding
for themselves what is right or wrong, are freely exposed to different things on
television, mobile phones, laptops, or computers. Because of the availability
and easy access to the Internet, they can just easily search the web and go to
56
different websites without restrictions. This allows them to see, read, or hear
things which are not suitable for their very young age. This makes them very
vulnerable to character change and can greatly affect the way they view the
world and the things around them. The people in the scientific world nor the
children are blameworthy because first, the children are not yet capable of
rationally deciding for themselves what is good and what is bad. Second, even
if creators of these technologies went out of their way to inform children of the
pros and cons of these technological contributions, it would still be useless
because the children have no capacity to understand them yet. So, the ones to
be blamed are the adults who allowed the children to have access to such
devices in first place without any supervision.
Robotics and Humanity

Another great product of the innovative minds of the people is the robot which
are now widely used. For example, there are so -called service robots that do
specific tasks but focus mainly in assisting their masters in their everyday
tasks.
Germany was one of the first countries to develop service robots. As part of
the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research’s “Service Robotics
Innovation Lead
Initiative,” it sponsored a
collaborative project called
DESIRE (Deutsche
Servicerobotik Initiative-
Germany Service Robotics
Initiative) which was
launched on October 1,
2005. Some of the
expected work to be
performed by DESIRE are
the following: (1) “Clear
up the kitchen table” – all http://news.mit.edu
Figure 7.5
objects on top of the kitchen table will be
moved to 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 not in their proper places will be moved to where they belong.
Roles played by Robotics
57
Robots play different roles not only in the lives of the people but also in the
society as a whole. They are primarily used to ease the workload of mankind.
They were invented to make life more efficient and less stressful. They
perform complicated activities which human beings are incapable of doing.
On the other hand, they perform the simplest tasks at home so that their
masters can perform the complex ones without stressing themselves over the
simple tasks. There are also robots which are made for pleasure. To be more
specific, these types of robots perform activities to entertain people. They can
usually be found in amusement parks or exhibits. In addition, there are also
some robots which were made to serve as toys. They also perform different
activities but they are usually child-friendly.
Ethical Dilemma/s faced by Robotics

Just like any other technological advancements, robotics also faces different
problems and dilemmas. Although the idea is to help people and make their
lives a lot easier than before, it is still not immune to different ethical
dilemmas and possible undesirable outcomes. One of the dilemmas faced by
robots is safety. Who should be held accountable if someone’s safety is
compromised by a robot? It is important to know who should be blamed and
who should be held responsible if such thing happens.
Another dilemma is the emotional component. This may seem a little absurd
as of the moment, but looking at how fast technology progresses nowadays, it
is not completely impossible for robots to develop emotions. So here, the
questions become, “What if robots become sentient? Should they be granted
robot right? Should they have their own set of rights to be upheld, respected,
and protected by humans?” It is just right for the robots to be given their own
set of rights should they develop the ability to feel different kinds of emotion.
Moral and Ethical Issues in Advanced Technology
Individuals and organizations use technology to enhance their daily

operations, be it business, learning, construction, or medical activities.
Advancement in technology does not elicit ethical or moral issues, but it is the
use of technological inventions that raises these issues.
Ethical dilemmas arise when there are competing goods and competing evils.
In regard to IT, the sharing of private information within an organization
raises the question of whether the action is moral or immoral. Information
systems enable people to manipulate records within a short period, thus raising
questions on whether the information is genuine or vague.
58
In addition, will genetic engineering improve the quality of life or destroy it?
These are some of ethical dilemmas that are yet to be solved. Furthermore,
biotechnology raises some moral issues. It is difficult to justify the use of
living organisms during research and other technological discoveries. For
instance, vitro fertilization enables women who are not in a position to have
their own children to undergo the process. Religious groups are opposed to
such practices because their beliefs do not agree with them.
Similarly, the uses of technology have the capability of making many innocent
people to suffer; this is a moral concern. For example, nuclear technology has
the potential of killing many people, and consequently destroying the
environment. This raises some health problems. People affected by nuclear
emissions, such as those witnessed in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, are deemed to
be genetically impaired. Such effects can affect the next generations of
affected individuals.
The use of computers also raises health issues. Even though computer makes
our work easier, it is evident that prolonged use of computers results to
repetitive stress injuries.
In regard to job displacement, machines have enabled companies to cut down

their labor force. Many companies use technological tools and knowledge,
such as robots and computer to run their business operations. Some people are
forced to take different roles other than their qualification requirements and
others are faced with stress related to work difficulties.
The idea that the quest for strong AI would ultimately succeed was long
thought of as science fiction, centuries or more away. However, thanks to
recent breakthroughs, many AI milestones, which experts viewed as decades
away merely five years ago, have now been reached, making many experts
take seriously the possibility of super intelligence in our lifetime. Because AI
has the potential to become more intelligent than any human, we have no
surefire way of predicting how it will behave. People now control the planet,
not because we’re the strongest, fastest or biggest, but because we’re the
smartest. If we’re no longer the smartest, are we assured to remain in control?
59
But there are other examples of potential ethical dilemmas in scientific
research and technology. There are things like genetic engineering, where
people worry that we might one day create super-humans that will outcompete
regular humans. There is surveillance technology, making people wonder how
human rights could be violated. People ask questions about whether we're
going where only God should tread, and whether we should do something just
because we can. The implications of many of these technologies are complex
and philosophical.
The biggest risk to our future is not that technology will take over but that we
will become too much like technology. Let’s think about where it’s going.
Let’s balance the EQ with the IQ. We should think of technology not as what
we seek but rather how we seek – it is a tool we should embrace, not one we
should become.
Application
It’s time for an exciting activity! The class will form 4 groups with equal
number of members as possible. Two groups shall make a skit and the other
two groups shall have a simple debate.
1. Skit: Each group should choose a topic and think of its perceived
effects and dilemma that it entails. Show your stand on a technological
dilemma through a skit . The group must be able to show the role/s
played by the technological advancement in the lives of the people.
a. What if robots become sentient, must we give them robot rights?

b. Google and stupidity
c. Genetically Modified Organisms and Food Safety
2. Debate: Each group will pick one topic to debate on. Members of
each group must form into 2 subgroups – one as the Pro, the other as
the Con. The topics for the debate are the following:
a. Is technology a friend or a foe?

b. Automation - A Threat to Employment?
c. Internet vs. Indolence and Stupidity
d. Cloning and Stem cell technology
60
Note: The teacher may use ‘toss coin’ or ‘throw a die’ strategies to decide
which groups shall perform a skit or a debate.
Task Description:

Criteria

topic
contribute
Feedback
1. From the graphic organizer you completed at the very start of this
section, choose one technology in each category and give their risks
and benefits as regards to their purpose. Explain briefly each point you
included.
Technology Benefits Risks
61
2. “My Ideal Technology”. Think of an issue (be it environmental,
economical, transportation, etc.), and come up with a technology that
would somehow address the issue. Give a description of the features of
your technology. What are its benefits and drawbacks to the society?
62
Summary
While it is true that science equips its knowers some details about the world,
its main claim to objectivity and systematic methodology is at the very least
flawed. Science and technology has aided us in our survival and helped us
outsmart our adversaries, provided us comfortable living, allowed us to
explore the world, and assisted us in discovering more about ourselves and the
truth.
However, it also leads us to the paradox in which we are only able to see the
world in the lenses of technological innovations leaving behind other aspects
which are deemed important. In our pursuit of growth, we had conveniently
forgotten that technology only presents one approach in viewing the world,
thus leading us to evaluate objects or not.
It is undeniably true that man constantly aims for good life and has worked
hard in pointing out what amounts to be good and what happiness means to
them. Science and technology has been at the forefronts of man’s attempts at
finding this happiness and attaining good life for many if not all of us.
In our modern times, there are different advancements given by science and
technology. However, there are still problems faced by these technological
advancements specifically on the ethical aspects in nature and mankind. It is
now impossible for technology and humanity not to cross paths and it is
necessary that ethics be enforced in the field of technology to ensure safety
and morality of these advancements to living things.
Reflection
1. What do you think will happen if human person did not flourish in terms of
science and technology?
2.Debate: Each group will pick one topic to debate on. Members of each
group must form into 2 subgroups – one as the Pro, the other as the Con.
The topics for the debate are the following:
a. Is technology a friend or a foe?
b. Automation - A Threat to Employment?
c. Internet vs. Indolence and Stupidity
d. Cloning and Stem cell technology
Note: The teacher may use ‘toss coin’ or ‘throw a die’ strategies to decide
which groups shall perform a skit or a debate.
3.From among the different schools of thought presented above, which among
them describe you as a person or as a member of the community? Do you
think it can develop you better and attain a good life? Why or why not?
63
References
Blitz, M. (2014). “Understanding Heidegger on Technology,” The New Atlantis,

Number 41, Winter, pp 63-80
Mcnamara et al., (2018). Science, Technology and Society. C & E Publishing, Inc.
Patria, Javier et al. Science, Technology and Society, pp 63-74
Serafica et al., (2018). Science, Technology and Society. Rex Bookstore
Macat Thinking News. (2006) Aristotle’s Secret to Happiness: What will make us
happy now? Accessed February 3, 2017. https://www.macat.com/blog/aristotle’s -
secret-happiness
The Basics of Philosophy. (2008). Theism. Accessed February 3,2017.

http://www.philosophybasics.com/branch_theism.html .
64
Unit 3:
Special Issues in Science, Technology and

Society (18 hours)
Introduction
Biological diversity is the foundation for livelihoods and sustainable

development, supplying basic needs such as food, energy, medicine,
recreational and cultural benefits. However, population growth,
industrialization and urbanization have accelerated the decline and extinction
of species as well as the degradation of ecosystems. The losses are due to a
range of pressures driven by socio-economic factors, including climate
change, ecosystem degradation, illegal trade and unsustainable use.
Biotechnology can help conserve biodiversity and help protect some species
from going extinct. Modern biotechnology provides breakthrough products
and technologies to combat debilitating and rare diseases, reduce our
environmental footprint, feed the hungry, use less and cleaner energy, and
have safer, cleaner and more efficient industrial manufacturing processes.
With the development of genetic engineering, research in biotechnology
developed rapidly because of the new possibility to make changes in the
organisms' genetic material (DNA). Through genetic engineering farmers can
raise more food for a growing world population while reducing agriculture’s
impact on the environment. Genetically modified crops enable farmers to
grow more crops using less land while applying fewer chemicals and
conserving water and energy allowing farmers to be more productive and
efficient. Nanotechnology is also increasingly being used to create new foods
and food packaging by breaking matter down into microscopic nanoparticles
that are just atoms wide and “programming” them to perform specific tasks. A
range of nanotech applications for food have been used and proposed, from
packaging (e.g., forming an air-tight vacuum seal) to taste (e.g., mimicking the
flavor and texture of familiar foods).
The Nano world is perhaps the fastest growing world in the twenty-first
century. Global competition among nations in nanotechnology research,
development and marketing is on the rise. Advantages of nanotechnology
towards improving the quality of life are many. However, disadvantages of
nanotechnology especially related to human health, genetic disorders and
climate change are only beginning to surface raising serious concerns. The
Nano world will continue influence science and technology.
65
Learning Outcomes
At the end of this unit, students will be able to:
 Link learned concepts to the development of the information age and its
impact on society;
 Illustrate how the social media and the information age have impacted our
lives;
 Determine the interrelatedness of society, environment and health;
 Discuss the ethics and implication of GMOs and potential future impacts;
 Discuss the major impacts (both potential and realize) of nanotechnology

on society;
 Analyze the issue through the conceptual STS lenses;
 Critique the issue and its cause and benefits to the society;
 Describe gene therapy and its various forms;
 Assess the issues potential benefits and detriments to global health;
 Identify the causes of climate change;
 Assess the various impacts of climate change including economic, geo-

political, biological, meteorological, and etc.; and
 Apply STS concepts to the issues of climate change.
66
Topic 8: Information Age
Learning Objectives
 Discuss the history of Information Age

 Determine the human and social impacts of developments in the
Information Age
Situation:
Imagine that you are at lost in the wilderness and there is a substitution cypher
(a method of encrypting message in which the letters of the original text are
systematically replaced by different alphabet) that you need to answer to solve
your dilemma.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
S T U V WX Y Z A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R
Hint: This is the first thing that you will be doing when you are at lost
Encrypted word: AFXGJESLAGF KWSJUZAFY
Answer: __________________________________
Information plays an important role in understanding the truth and reality. If

there are information available, our lives might be enigmatic and chaotic. The
development of our system of acquiring, storing and retrieving information
67
had spurt with the advent of science and technology and now we are in the
century which is considered by many as the Information Age.
Information Age is the period starting in the last quarter of the 20th century
when information became effortlessly accessible through publication and
through the management of information by computers and computer networks.
It is a true new age based upon the interconnection of computers via
telecommunications, with these systems operating on both real-time and as
needed basis- Theory of Information Age (Messenger, 1982).
Before it has reached its current state, constant change has taken place in the
form of information revolution. By 1960’s to 1970’s, rapid growth of
information resulted to difficulty in collecting and managing them1980’s there
was Information Anxiety (Richard Wurman). In 1990’s, information became
the currency of the business world. At present, information turned out to be a
commodity, an over developed product, mass produced and unspecialized.
Robert Harris has outlined the truths about Information Age. He described it
as follows
1. Information must complete

2. Newer is equated to truer
3. Selection is a viewpoint
4. The media sells what the culture buys
5. The early word gets the perm
6. You are what you eat and so is your brain
7. Anything in great demand will be counterfeited
8. Ideas are seen as controversial
9. Undead information walks ever on
10. Media presence creates the story
11. The medium selects the message
12. The whole truth is a pursuit
Accessibility of information was made faster and easier with the aid of
computer. One of the significant applications of computers for science and
research is evident in the field of bioinformatics. Bioinformatics is the
application of information technology to store, organize and analyze vast
amount of biological data which is available in the form sequences and
structures of proteins – the building blocks of organisms and nucleic acids- the
information carrier (Madan, n.d.) Such was established because of the need to
create databases of biological sequences. Application includes the Human
68
Genome Project, Pharmacogenomics Drug Discovery, Gene Finder and
Annotator.
Application
Activity 1
Arrange the photos chronologically by writing numbers 1-12 below each
photo and explain the manner by which information is being acquired, stored,
retrieve and utilize.
69
70
Activity 2
Problems on fake news have surfaced different multimedia platform, with

these, users must be knowledgeable on how to verify the authenticity of a
source. Create a checklist on how to check on the reliability and authenticity
of information found in websites and journals.
Feedback
Create a poster on the advantages and disadvantages of Technology.
71
Topic 9: Biodiversity and the Health Society
Learning Objectives
 Define biodiversity;
 Determine the interrelatedness of biodiversity, environment, and

health;
 Discuss the ethics, implications, and potential future impacts of

GMOs; and
 Propose a plan or make a stand that would show the relatedness of

species in forming up a diverse and healthy society without
compromising each other.
Think- Pair- Share
Checkpoint 1
All living things exist in balance with other living things and physical factor.
Unknown
Bio diversity
Look at the word “biodiversity”. It’s actually two words combined together.
With your partner, breakdown the meaning of the two words in biodiversity.
Bio means___________________________________________________
Diversity means__________________________________________________
Now, combine the two words and try to come up with your own definition of
biodiversity:
Biodiversity means
___________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
72
Let us compare your definition with the following definitions provided:
Biodiversity is defined as the vast variety of life forms in the entire earth
which includes the simplest unicellular organism to the most complex
multicellular organism. (Serafico, 2018)
Another definition of biodiversity is the variability of organisms including

species thriving in different ecosystems like marine, freshwater or any aquatic
and terrestrial and the ecological complexes of which they are part; this
includes diversity between, within and of ecosystems. (Villago Globale, 2009)
Biodiversity comprises abiotic and biotic factors. Several biomes have diverse
characteristics in terms of their abiotic factors that dictate the biotic factors
that thrives on it. The aquatic biome can be divided into two, the freshwater
biome and the marine biome. The freshwater biome includes ponds and lakes,
streams and rivers, and wetlands. It is usually less than one (1 % ) of the
earth’s resources. Marine regions include oceans, coral reefs and estuaries. It
comprises about three fourths of the earth’s surface. Terrestrial biomes include
deserts, forest, grasslands, and tundra.
After you are done defining biodiversity, ask your pair to take a walk around
the campus and note of the different organisms present as well as the
characteristics of their habitat. Write your answers on Table 9.1. Don’t for to
enumerate the organisms and their corresponding density. Synthesize data into
any graphical presentation that you can illustrate in Figure 9.1.
Now that you have shared your knowledge of local biodiversity, it’s time to
think about biodiversity on a bigger scale. Research on the biodiversity of the
country as well as the global scale and illustrate them using the same graphical
representation that you have used in your local biodiversity on Figures 9.2 and
9.3.
Here are some questions to think about.
What do you think scientist expect to discover more species?
Why do you think these organisms would thrive more as the time pass by?
What patterns have you observed from the graphs that you have drawn?
73
Table 9.1 Local Biodiversity of ____________________________________
Species Taxon Representative Population Type of

Species Count Environment
Figure 9.1 _____________________ showing the biodiversity of

______________________
74
Figure 9.2 _____________________ showing the biodiversity of the
Philippines
Figure 9.3 _____________________ showing the biodiversity of the World
75
Your answer in the above questions actually explains that biotic factors (living
things) are related to the abiotic factors (non-living things). For example, your
answer is an increase in the population of rats in a rice field or decrease in the
number of dragonflies in the area; therefore, there must be changes in the
environment. Thus, a change in the environment can cause a change in the
biodiversity. And a change in the biodiversity could have erratic effects in not
only in wildlife and marine but also in human beings.
Now get a copy of the following articles and proceed to Activity 1.

1. “The politics of golden Rice” (Dubock, Adrian GM Crops & Food. Jul-
Sep2014, Vol5 Issue 3 p 210-222 13p.)
2. “Ethics in Research with Vulnerable Populations and Emerging
Countries: The Golden Rice Case.” (Duguet, Anne Marie et. al., Journal
of International Law and Commercial Regulations. Summer 2013, Vol.
38 Issue 4, p979-1013, 35p)
3. Agro-ecology: What it is and what it has to offer? Is this the future of
farming?
Activity 1: Collaborative Annotation Chart Think- Pair-Share
Directions:
You were tasked to read the different articles above. The first time you read
your hand-out (assignment), you placed your pencil down and just read to
understand. Today, while listening, it’s time to mark your hand-outs by using
the symbol asterisk (*) to mark key ideas, exclamation point (!) symbol to
mark surprising ideas and check mark (√) symbol to mark things you connect
with. Write a quick comment about why you picked that sentence, word or
idea. Lastly, share with your partner. Be sure to identify the quote or passage
you selected. Then, share your comment using a “Sample Language Support”
to get your discussion flowing. Record your partner’s response as well.
Symbol Comment Sample Language Support

*  Key ideas expressed  One significant idea in the
 Main points lecture is
 The article is trying to convey
!  Surprising details/claims  I was surprised to know that…
 How can anyone claim that..
√  Ideas/ sections you  This section reminded me of...
connect with  This connects with my
 What this reminds you of experience in that…
.
76
Use this part as your answer sheet
Symbol Your Comment or reason for Your partner’s comment/

marking this passage question to what you said
77
Here is a gist of what you have read…
Life here on earth is affected by changes in the environment. Life represented

by the various species face threats every day that leads to evolution and gene
modification. There are major threats to biodiversity that were identified by
the United Nations’ Environment Programme (WHO,n.d.). These threats
include habitat loss and destruction, alterations in ecosystem composition,
over-exploitation, pollution and contamination and global climate change.
Given those threats to biodiversity, different aspects in the society, health,

biology and environment are at risk. Researchers have been discovering new
ways to improve crop production, address health illness and decrease
biodiversity loss.
Application
Activity 2: Biodiversity Saver in the Making
BIG IDEA:
“We should preserve every scrap of biodiversity as priceless while we learn

to use it and come to understand what it means to humanity.”
E.O. Wilson
Complete the table below:
Today, you must analyze the different statements on Table 9.2 and put a check
(√) mark on the box of your choice under Day 1: My Opinion. Ask your
teacher to affix her signature on the sides of your answers. Tonight, look for
evidences and that may support and not support the statements and place a
check mark on your decision whether you agree or disagree.
Day 1: My Evidences/ Findings Day 2: My Decision

Opinion
Agree Disagree Support No Agree Disagree
support
1.
Environmental
changes
caused by
humans can
always be
reversed.
78
2. We can
learn from
previous
environmental
disasters so
that we will
not repeat the
same mistake.
3. All
scientific
experiments
do not affect
biodiversity
4. One
organism
becoming
extinct does
not hurt nature
because there
are millions of
organisms on
earth
BIG IDEA:
Based on evolutionary theory, organisms’ innate characteristic in its genome
79
dictates its ability to survive. Breakthroughs in modern technology lead to
what we call genetically modified organisms or GMOs which has changed the
concept of survival.
Activity 3: Search the Facts and Make a Stand: Debate
Divide the class into two groups and ask them to research on the different
genetically modified organisms, the pros and cons of genetically modifying
crops, and ethical implications and impacts of it.
Ask each leader to come up with different arguments supposing they belong to
the negative and positive side.
Using the toss coin system let the leaders choose head– pros and tail– cons.
Let the groups debate in class with the argument below:
Genetically modified products are safe to eat.
The rubric below will be used in grading the students’ outputs.
http://course1winona.edu/shatfield/air/classdebate.pdf
80
Feedback
BIG IDEA:
We should preserve every scrap of biodiversity as priceless while we learn to

use it and come to understand what it means to humanity.
E.O. Wilson
Activity 4: Think about these questions
1. How would you reconcile the emerging needs of human beings regarding
their health and
the need to protect the biodiversity?
2. Do you think scientific researches that modify the genes of organisms bring
more
advantages than disadvantages?
Now you are ready to take a quiz for today’s discussion.
Reflection
BIG IDEA:
Together let us make a stand in protecting the nature, in this way we can
protect our children's future.
-Unknown
ACTIVITY 5: I-Pledge
Advocacy Writing
In groups of five, brainstorm and come up with an advocacy on the need to

reconcile the emerging needs of human beings and the need to protect the
growth of biodiversity.
81
Topic 10: The Nanoworld
Learning Objectives
 Define nanotechnology;
 Characterize nanoscale;
 Describe the various use of nanotechnology;
 Discuss concerns on the uses of nanotechnology; and
 Explain the status on the use of nanotechnology in the Philippines.
Before we begin your journey to the smallest possible scale in the realm of
science, try answering these questions:
Can you think of fields where size or weight of materials or products is

important?
Can you build a statue from a pile of dust?
Can you think of situations were scientist have to make assumptions because
they couldn’t see what they were studying?
Do you think we are capable in unlocking the key to how natural elements are
designed and created?
82
“Nanotechnology is the sixth truly revolutionary technology introduced in

the modern world…”-D. Allan Bromley
Figure 10.4 Timeline of Technological Advancements

Photo credits to Dr. Iwona Turlik
Nanotechnology is defined as the study and use of structures between 1

nanometer and 100 nanometers in size. These include the design,
characterization, production and application of structures, devices and
controlling shape and size on a nanometer scale. (Royal Society, 2004). It is
just like studying eight hundred 100 nanometer particles side by side to match
the width of a human hair. Nanoscience is the study of phenomena and
manipulation of materials at atomic, molecular and macromolecular scales.
This includes the study of materials 100nm own to the size of atoms which is
approximately 0.2nm. For comparison, a red blood cell is approximately 7,
000nm wide and a water molecule is almost 0.3 nm across. (K. Ban et.al,
2011.)
Studying nanoparticles has been an interest of scientist for centuries and the
field flourished with the development of microscopes capable of displaying
particles called nanomaterial. A nanomaterial is an object that has at least one
dimension on the nanometer scale (app. 1-100nm); material can be in one
dimension (very thin surface coatings, films, layers), in two dimensions
(nanowires, nanotubes and fibers) or in all three dimensions (nanoparticles,
quantum dots, nanoshells, nanorings, micro). (Nanoyou, 2011). Nanomaterials
are of two types. Inorganic nanomaterial which includes gold nano clusters,
fullerenes and carbon nanotubes. Organic nanomaterials on the other hand are
made up of carbon compounds. To build such, nanotechnologists employ self-
organization using the molecules that can be assembled house in an
environment suitable for physical and chemical assembly. This type of
nanomaterial results in the growth of artificial layers of skin, liver tissues and
other organs. (Lohith, 2014).
As shown on Figure 10.5, the term “nano” is equivalent to one billionth of a

meter (10-9) hence it expresses a very tiny amount or size. In nanotechnology,
you will be able to manipulate matter in atomic or subatomic scale. Some of
the uses of nanotechnology include the production of microprocessors and
strain-resistant fabrics.
83
Photo credits to https://www.understandingnano.com/introduction.html
Figure 10.4: The Scale of Things- Nanometers and More
The study of nanomaterial becomes interesting with the use of different

equipment like electron microscope, atomic force microscope, and scanning
tunneling microscope. Electron microscope was built by Ernst Ruska and Max
Knoll during 1930s. There are two general types of electron microscopes
namely scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope.
The former directs a high voltage electron beam towards the specimen to
illuminate it and create a magnified image of the sample while the latter
directs a focused electron beam across the rectangular area of the specimen,
which loses energy as it passes through. The resolution of scanning electron
microscopes tends to be poorer than that achieved from the transmission
electron microscope. Atomic force microscope was developed BY Gerd Binig,
Calvin Quate and Chrisoph Gerber in 1986. It makes use of mechanical probe
that gathers information from the surface of a material. Scanning Tunneling
microscope enables scientists to view and manipulate nanoscale particles,
atoms, and small molecules. This invention gave a Nobel Prize Awards in
Physics to their inventors, Gerd Binigand Rohrer. (Javier.et.al, 2018).
Numerous innovations in development as well as those under investigations

are now the focus of nanotechnology. Nanotechnology impacts many
industries like transportation, environment, energy, electronics,
manufacturing, agriculture and pharmaceuticals. In the field of health care,
nanotechnologists work on chemical and biological sensors, drugs and
delivery devices, prosthetics and biosensors. They have created the quantum
dots that glow in UV light to locate as few as 10 to 100 cancer cells. They are
also trying to grow laboratory tissues to repair heart tissue or even replace
them. In technology, they are looking for solutions for a better data storage
and computation (e.g. a DVD that could hold a million movies) while in
environment, nanotechnology plays a big role in the quest for clean energy
84
and clean air (Nano Solar Cells). (Bennewitz, 2000).
In the Philippines, PCAS TRD-DOST ha funded most of the nanotech projects

which includes ICT and semiconductors, Health and biomedical, energy,
environment, agriculture and food, health and environmental risk nano-
metrology and education and public awareness. (Serafica, 2018).
Nanotechnologist faced a lot of issues since nanoscale-sized objects are very

delicate. Radiation particles can cause fatal defects during manufacturing thus
development requires very clean environments making only a few, out of
many produced, are perfect. Aside from manufacturing issues, there are also
potential risks of nanotechnology in health and environment. Nanoparticles
can be swallowed, inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or deliberately injected.
If this happens, inflammation can be triggered and weaken the immune
system. Nanoparticles can also accumulate in soil, water and plants
(www.trnmage, 2004).
Application
Be Informed!
Watch the video on YouTube entitled “The Next Step in

Nanotechnology” by George Tule ski, TED Talks. Here’s a link for a
faster access.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ds_rzoyyfF0https://www.youtube
.com/watch?v=Ds_rzoyyfF0. In pairs, answer the following question:
1. What are the possible innovations can nanotechnology offer?
2. Why do you think few scientists works on nanotechnology?
3. Do you think nanotechnology be applicable to solve environmental

problems?
85
4. In the world of medicine, nanotechnology can play a big role in the
repair of cells, cure diseases and even delay aging, if this happens,
what would this mean to our society?
Feedback
From those innovations presented in class, think of a product or output that is

made up of nanomaterial that has an impact in various aspects (health,
environment, economy etc.) that you want to create. Present it in class next
meeting.
86
Topic 11: The Aspects of Gene Therapy
Learning Objectives
After successful completion of this module, you should be able to:
 Describe gene therapy and its related processes;

 Compare and contrast vectors of gene delivery;
 Enumerate the pros and cons of gene therapy in the society.
Learning Activity: W-O-R-D-U-P
Directions: Using the grid below, find words related to gene therapy. You
may use the statements that follow as your clues to identify the words. Write
your answer on the space provided after each statement.
E Q Z X L E L L Q S T Y C W M
C G V C H T S I P K I K I U E
G O E B K H U N T I N G T O N
V L C R H O R U F H R A A N I
V W T Y M P I H C E T U M R O
J Q O K A L V F L I T E O R T
B L R L U L I R D W E T S E A
O E S M T T A N Q N T Y U O I
L S I C K L E C E L L A N E M
P S V E O U Q G A A E I O Z P
1. A disorder of the nervous system that usually occurs after the age of
45. ________________
2. A disorder in the blood caused by an inherited abnormal hemoglobin
(the oxygen-carrying protein within the red blood cells).
______________________
3. Are plasmid or viruses that are used to move recombinant DNA from
one cell to another. _________________
4. Is the alteration of the nucleotide sequence of the genome of an
organism, virus or extrachromosomal DNA. ____________________
5. A unit of DNA that is usually located on a chromosome and that
controls the development of one or more traits. ______________
87
6. Gene therapy that targets the reproductive cells meaning any changes
made to the DNA will be passed on to the next generation.
_________________
7. It is when the DNA is transferred into body tissues. It specifically
targets cells in the body which are not passed on to the person’s
children. ___________________
Gene therapy has become an increasingly important topic in science-related

news. The aim of gene therapy is the successful integration of corrected,
therapeutic DNA into the genomes of cells to alter gene expression and, in
turn, protein synthesis to correct genetic diseases.
Two Types of Gene Therapy
1. Somatic gene therapy, which involves introducing a "good" gene into

targeted cells to treat the patient — but not the patient's future children
because these genes do not get passed along to offspring.
2. Germline gene therapy, involves the introduction of corrective genes into
reproductive cells (sperm and eggs) or zygotes, with the objective of creating a
beneficial genetic change that is transmitted to the offspring.
Vectors for Gene Delivery
Appropriate methods to deliver DNA used in gene therapy are vital, as the
targeted tissues must properly receive the appropriate genes. Gene therapy can
be carried out using naked DNA delivered directly Vectors for Gene Delivery.
88
(Source: www.biologydiscussion.com)
Fig: 11.1 Structure of Adenovirus
Adenoviruses - are a group of common viruses that infect the lining of your eyes,
airways and lungs, intestines, urinary tract, and nervous system. They're common
causes of fever, coughs, sore throats, diarrhea, and pink eye.
Source: www.andrew.cmu.edu
Fig: 11.2 Structure of Retrovirus
Retrovirus is a type of RNA virus that inserts a copy of its genome into the
DNA of a host cell that it invades, thus changing the genome of that cell.
89
Source: http://m.wikipedia.org
Fig. 11.3 Structure of Adeno-associated virus
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) - is a non-enveloped virus that can be

engineered to deliver DNA to target cells, and has attracted a significant
amount of attention in the field, especially in clinical-stage experimental
therapeutic strategies.
(Source: https:// study.com)

Fig. 11.4 Structure of Herpes Simplex
Herpes simplex type 1 causes sores around the mouth and lips (sometimes
called fever blisters or cold sores). HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but most
cases of genital herpes are caused by herpes type 2. In HSV-2, the infected
90
person may have sores around the genitals or rectum.
Source: library.open.oregonstate.edu
Fig. 11.5 Structure of Naked DNA
Naked DNA refers to DNA that is not associated with proteins, lipids, or any
other molecule to help protect it. Naked DNA is the result of release of genetic
information into the surrounding environment, such as from bursting cells.
Bioethical Issues of Gene Therapy
The first death associated with gene therapy occurred on September 18, 1999,
at the University of Pennsylvania. Jesse Gelsinger was participating in a
clinical trial, a biomedical experiment for evaluation of safety and efficiency
of a therapy for a disease. Gelsinger, who was 18 years old at the time of the
treatment, had a deficiency of ornithine transcarboamylase, an important
enzyme in the metabolism of ammonia. Patients with this rare metabolic
disorder must maintain a low-protein diet and take a series of medicines to
avoid ammonia poisoning in the blood stream. The gene therapy Gelsinger
took triggered a chain reaction in his immune system, resulting in hepatic and
respiratory failure, and consequently, his death four days after being treated.
Effects on the Environment

Although the positive impacts of gene therapy could be enormous, there are
many questions raised that needs to be answered. New organisms created by
genetic engineering could present an ecological problem. One cannot predict
the changes that a genetically engineered species would make on the
91
environment. The release of a new genetically engineered species would also
have the possibility of causing an imbalance in the ecology of a region just
exotic species would do. An accident or an unknown result could cause
several problems. An accident in engineering the genetics of a virus or
bacteria for example could result in a stronger type, which could cause a
serious epidemic when released. This could be fatal in human genetic
engineering creating problems ranging from minor medical problems, to
death.
Effects on Human
Looking at the fact that genetic engineering employs viral vector that carries
functional gene inside the human body; the repercussion are still unknown.
There are no clues as to where functional genes are being placed. They may
even replace the important genes, instead of mutated genes. Thus, this may
lead to another health condition or disease to human. Also, as defective genes
are replaced with functional gene, then it is expected that there will be a
reduction in genetic diversity and if human beings will have identical
genomes, the population as a whole will be susceptible to virus or any form of
diseases.
Antibiotic Resistance
Genetic engineering often uses genes for antibiotic resistance as "selectable
markers." Early in the engineering process, these markers help identify cells
that have taken up foreign genes. Although they have no further use, the genes
continue to be expressed in plant tissues. Most genetically engineered plant
foods carry fully functioning antibiotic-resistance genes.
The presence of antibiotic-resistance genes in foods could have lethal effects.
Therefore, eating these foods could reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics to
fight disease when these antibiotics are taken with meals. More so, the
resistance genes could be transferred to human or animal pathogens, making
them impervious to antibiotics. If transfer were to occur, it could aggravate the
already serious health problem of antibiotic resistant disease organisms
Ethical and Social Issues

"Playing God" has become a strong argument against genetic engineering.
Several issues have also been raised as regards the acceptance of this
technology. These concerns range from ethical issues to lack of knowledge on
the effects genetic engineering may have. One major concern is that once an
altered gene is placed in an organism, the process cannot be reversed. The
92
production of medicines through the use of genetically altered organisms
might develop extremely infectious forms that could cause worldwide
epidemics.
Application
Activity 1: What genes are you wearing?
Break up your class into groups of four or five students, assigning one of the
following diseases to each group:
• HIV • Cystic fibrosis • Hemophilia

• Muscular dystrophy • Rheumatoid arthritis • Coronary
heart disease
• Alzheimer’s disease • Ulcer • Bone fracture
• Cancer • Sickle cell anemia • Huntington’s
disease
• Tay-sach's disease
Give each student a “What Genes are you Wearing?” packet that is tailored to
his or her group’s disease. Each group will present their output regarding the
topic they have chosen. If time allows have groups compare and share in a
whole class room discussion. Each student will answer the following
questions.
1. Is gene therapy safe to cure genetic disorder?
2. If you are the patient suffering from a genetic disease are you willing
to undergo gene therapy? Why?
93
Activity 2: Vector Voyage
Direction: Using the library resources, complete the table below.
Retroviru Adenoviru Adeno- Herpes Nake

s s associate Simple d
d Virus x Virus DNA
How the
vector carries
the genetic
material
Maximum
length of
DNA that can
be inserted in
the vector
Advantages
Disadvantage
s
Activity 3: GENETIC DISORDERS

Direction: Complete the table below. List down ten common genetic disorders.
Genetic Disorder Gene/ Defect Clinical Features
94
Activity 4: Pros and Cons
Direction: Break up your class into groups of four or five students. Each group
had their own assigned respondents regarding on the effects of gene therapy to
health and to the society. Each group will present their output.
Pros Cons
Human Health
Society
Guide Questions:
1. What was the respondent think about gene therapy?
2. Do you think the Food and Drug Administration should or should

not approve gene therapy treatments for use in the Philippines?
3. Do you think the government should or should not fund scientific

researches on changing the genes of unborn babies that aims to
improve their characteristics such as intelligence or physical traits
such as athletic ability or appearance?
Feedback
What does the picture show?
Source: www.tutorialspoint.com
95
Topic 12: Climate Change (Mandated Topic)
Learning Objectives
 Identify the causes of climate change;

 Discuss various impacts of climate change including economical,
geopolitical, biological and meteorological aspects; and
 Create a simple climate change advocacy through poster, slogan, and
infomercial.
You might have already heard of “Climate Change” in some social platforms
as a hot issue and advocacy that calls for biological, economical, sociological
and political concerns. Below is a concept map, with the word climate change
at the center, write something out of what you know and understand about this
issue.
Climate
Change
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“There is no question that climate change is happening; the only arguable

point is what part humans are playing in it.”
- David
Attenborough
Climate Change
Climate change is a change in the statistical properties of the climate system

that persists for several decades or longer. Climate change may be due to
natural processes, such as changes in the Sun’s radiation, volcanoes or internal
variability in the climate system, or due to human influences such as changes
in the composition of the atmosphere or land use.
Many lines of evidence demonstrate that human activities, especially

emissions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases from fossil fuel combustion,
deforestation, and land-use change, are primarily responsible for the climate
changes observed in the industrial era, especially over the last six decades. The
atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide, the largest contributor to human-
caused warming, has increased by about 40% over the industrial era. This
change has intensified the natural greenhouse effect, driving an increase in
global surface temperatures and other widespread changes in Earth’s climate
that are unprecedented in the history.
Let’s take a look at how interrelated and interconnected the following

phenomena that ultimately leads to climate change.
Greenhouse Effect
The greenhouse effect is a natural

process that warms the Earth’s surface.
When the Sun’s energy reaches the
Earth’s atmosphere, some of it is
reflected back to space and the rest is
absorbed and re-radiated by greenhouse
gases. This blanket of greenhouse gases
serves as the Earth’s insulator, of which
without it, ours will be a called dead
planet.
Figure12.1. Trapping of heat by the Greenhouse
gases
97
Greenhouse gases include water vapour, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous
oxide, ozone and some artificial chemicals such as chlorofluorocarbons
(CFCs). Carbon dioxide and methane in particular, trap the heat radiated by
the sun.
The problem we now face is that human activities are increasing the
concentrations of greenhouse gases. From NASA’s observation, the increase
and too much concentration of these greenhouse gases can cause Earth's
atmosphere to trap more and more heat that warms up the planet leading to a
phenomenon called global warming.
Global Warming
Global warming is the term

used to describe a gradual
increase in the average
temperature of the Earth's
atmosphere and its oceans,
a change that is believed to
be permanently changing
the Earth’s climate.
Credit:VladisChern/Shutterstock.com
Figure12.2. The rise in global temperature
The increased volumes of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases released
by the burning of fossil fuels, land clearing, agriculture, and other human
activities, are believed to be the primary sources of the global warming that
has occurred over the past 50 years. Scientists from the Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate carrying out global warming research have recently
predicted that average global temperatures could increase between 1.4 and 5.8
°C by the year 2100.
Changes resulting from global warming may include rising sea levels due to
the melting of the polar ice caps, as well as an increase in occurrence and
severity of storms and other severe weather events – all of which are signs of a
changing climactic patterns.
Impacts of Climate Change on Society
98
Credit: Left - Mellimage/Shutterstock.com, center - Montree Hanlue/Shutterstock.com.
Figure12.3. Catastrophic effects of Climate Change: From left to right: Forest Fire, Drought,
Typhoon
According to the U.S. Global Change Research Program, the aspects of

climate change are having increasingly complex and important impacts on all
the nations’ economy and quality of life. Impacts related to climate change are
evident across regions and in many sectors important to society—such as
human health, agriculture and food security, water supply, transportation,
energy, ecosystems, and others—and are expected to become increasingly
disruptive throughout this century and beyond.
Climate change affects human health and wellbeing through more extreme
weather events and wildfires, decreased air quality, and diseases transmitted
by insects, food, and water. Climate disruptions to agriculture have been
increasing and are projected to become more severe over this century, a trend
that would diminish the security of the world’s food supply. Surface and
groundwater supplies in some regions are already stressed, and water quality is
diminishing in many areas, in part due to increasing sediment and contaminant
concentrations after heavy downpours.
In some regions, prolonged periods of high temperatures associated with

droughts contribute to conditions that lead to larger wildfires and longer fire
seasons. For coastal communities, sea level rise, combined with coastal
storms, has increased the risk of erosion, storm surge damage, and flooding.
Extreme heat, sea level rise, and heavy downpours are affecting infrastructure
like roads, rail lines, airports, and all other infrastructures.
The capacity of ecosystems like forests, barrier beaches, and wetlands to

buffer the impacts of extreme events like fires, floods, and severe storms is
being overwhelmed. The rising temperature and changing chemistry of ocean
99
water is combining with other stresses, such as overfishing and pollution, alter
marine-based food production and harm fishing communities.
Some climate changes currently have beneficial effects for specific sectors or
regions. For example, current benefits of warming include longer growing
seasons and longer ice – free period for agriculture.
Application
After learning about climate change, what natural processes and human
activities causes it and the possible consequences brought about this
phenomenon, the question that comes next is, as a concerned citizen and a
student, what can you do about it? What ways can you think of to mitigate the
hazards caused by climate change?
And so here are some amazing activities prepared for you. Have fun!
Activity 1: Nature’s Advocates
A. Form groups of 5 and create an infomercial showing how community

can help mitigate the hazards caused by climate change. Each group
must choose one from the given areas below that are affected by
climate change. A rubric is prepared below to rate your performance.
You have 15 minutes to conceptualize, and 2 – 3 minutes to present
your output. Enjoy acting!
1. Agriculture and Food Security

2. Economy
3. Biodiversity
4. Health
5. Geography and Ocean ecology
6. Climatic patterns
100
Criteria

topic
contribute
B. Retaining your group in activity A, create an advocacy campaign by

making a poster and a slogan that tells how community will help
mitigate the effects of climate change. Upload your work in social
media, and try to elicit comments from the viewers, and then share
them with the class next meeting.
Feedback
Congratulations for making this far. Now, let’s test your understanding of our
topic on climate change.
Answer the following questions and follow the procedure on each item.
1. It is an important heat – trapping greenhouse gas, which is released

through human activities such as deforestation and burning of fossil
fuels, as well as natural processes such as respiration and volcanic
eruption.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
(copy the last letter of your answer and put in it box # 1)
101
2. It is a change in global climate, and patterns, attributed largely to the
increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
(copy the 3rd letter of your answer and put in it box # 10)
3. It is a critical solution to climate change, by renewing the forest cover

that will absorb and reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the
atmosphere.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
(copy the 8th letter of your answer and put in it box # 4)
4. The burning of natural fuel by humans is the largest source of emission

of carbon dioxide. These natural fuels were formed from the remains
of living organisms million years ago. The name given to natural fuel
is ___.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
(copy the 2nd letter of your answer and put in it box # 11)
5. This is a process that occurs when gases in the Earth’s atmosphere trap
the Sun’s heat making the Earth much warmer.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
6. This is a long – term rise in the overall temperature of the Earth’s

climate system, generally attributed to greenhouse effect.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
7. It is a permanent destruction of forest in order to make the land

available for other uses, which consequently add more atmospheric
carbon dioxide as a result of large – scale removal of trees that will
absorb this harmful gas.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
(copy the 5th letter of your answer and put in it box # 8 and 12)
102
8. It is the process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically as a
result of drought or deforestation, and leading to shortage of food
supply.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __
9. It is the average weather in a given area over a longer period of time.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __
10. This is a disaster of below – average precipitation, resulting in

prolonged shortages in water supply that could cause reduced crop
yield, and potentially loss of harvest and or of livestock.
__ __ __ __ __ __ __
(copy the 2nd letter of your answer and put in it box # 3 and 9)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12
You did a great job!
103
Summary
The last module of Science, Technology and Society discussed the special
topics that would allow you to reflect on the role of science and technology
not only in the community where you are living but to the whole world.
The advent of information age has played a big role in cascading vital
information to the society. With the advance technological devices like
computers, laptops, cellular phones, personal digital assistants, servers,
mainframes and internet that lets us access social media and online resources,
and even microchips and other high technologies, the life that we are living
today is easy. Information age has affected and transformed the lives we have.
From communicating through simple ways like papyrus, letter writing etc., we
have shifted to calling through mobile phones, sending files through email,
chatting with our love ones through video calls, etc. Highly modernized,
automated, data-driven and technologically advanced-these is how we
describe our society nowadays. This era of our life offers us a lot for the
development of noble researchers but it also entails responsible use. You must
learn how to check the reliability of the sources you are accessing before
dissemination for those information poses both positive and negative impacts.
You must always consider that the information you share could be of great
help to our lives and others.
Advances in science and technology have also affected our biodiversity. Some
efforts have been made by the government to conserve all species. Threats like
habitat loss and destruction, alterations in ecosystem composition, over-
exploitation, pollution, contamination, and global climate change has cause
drastic decrease in the population of species all over the world. The decrease
has led to environment-related illnesses, nutritional, health and biological
problems. Together we must be all biodiversity savers to have a better
environment.
Scientist has made advances in technology through the field of

nanotechnology. Through this, products can be manufactures to help improve
health, environment, food, water, and agriculture. Though this field promises a
lot, you must take into account the social, ethical, and environmental concerns
of using such.
Another breakthrough in science is gene therapy. Gene therapy is a method

that may treat or cure genetic related human illness. As this science flourish,
many ethical issues were raised. Thus, as a future researcher, you must be able
to distinguish what is vital if you wished to venture in the field of
nanotechnology.
Climate change is a worldwide issue that each of us must face. Several factors
like natural processes and persistent human activities have statistically
increased the percentage of climate change for a period of time. The
continuous climate change has affected the biotic and abiotic aspects of the
earth.
104
Reflection
Now that you have reached this far, it is time to reflect and make a move by
answering the following questions
1. Is information age a boon or a bane? Why?

2. How does Information Age influence our society?
3. As a part of the planet earth, what can you do in your own simple way
to help in the advancement of science and technology for the
improvement of the society?
4. Reflect on this “Gene therapy is still in its infancy, but it is believed
that as it matures, it will become an effective treatment for the myriad
of genetic diseases that affect humanity”
5. Imagine a product called multi-replicator was developt by a
nanotechnologist and made available to anyone. This replicator could
allow people to simply produce any item they need themselves without
the help of any manufacturer or a company. What would this do to our
economy as we know it today? Can ou think of some impacts of these
breakthrough on employment, science, politics, society and other
sectors. What are some of the social and ethical considerations scientist
must consider in conducting researches in nanotechnology?
105
Culminating Activity (optional)
Learning Objectives
After successful completion of this course, you should be able to:
 Present different outputs in selected topics of STS in an exhibit; and

 Propose a project plan to address selected problems in the world
applying all the concepts learned in STS.
Recall all outputs that you have done in the subject. Plan a mini exhibit where
you can present all of these outputs to showcase your talents not only in class
but in your university.
This activity will develop your skills in planning and organizing a mini exhibit
in Science, Technology and Society. Here is some of the committee that you
may form to help you organize the event:
1. General Chair/ Organizing Committee

2. Graphics, Signage and Marketing Committee
3. Registration (Pre- and On-site)
4. Program and Moderator Committee
5. Physical Arrangement Committee
6. Audio-visual/ Technical Committee
7. Finance and Sponsorship Committee
8. Hospitality/ Food Committee
9. Photo-documentation Committee
10. Evaluation and Post-event Activities Committee
After forming the committee, seek instructors’ direction for the planning and
conduct of the exhibit.
Application
I-pledge
After your guest have completed the different stations of the gallery, you may
now ask them to signify their own advocacy that would help suggest possible
solutions to the persisting issues in the society brought by science and
technology through writing in the prepared “I-pledge for Mother Earth”
billboard.
106
References
Lohith, M. (2014) Nanotechnology. https//www.researchgate.net
Macat Thinking News (2016), Aristotkle’s Secret to Happiness: What will make us
happy now? Accessed February 3, 2017
Nano memory scheme handles defects:

http://www.trnmag.com/Stories/2004/090804/Nano_memory_scheme_handles_defec
ts_Brief_090804.html
Nanooyou, (2011). Nanotechnology for Youth.http//nanoyou.eu
Nano memory scheme handles defects:

http://www.trnmag.com/Stories/2004/090804/Nano_memory_scheme_handles_defec
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R. Benefits et al., "Atomic scale memory at a silicon surface" Nanotechnology

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Macat Thinking News (2016), Aristotkle’s Secret to Happiness: What will make us
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UnderstandingNanotechnology. www.understanding nano.com/introduction.html
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About the Authors
Gerlie Urbi Bayani is an Instructor of Cagayan State University and a
Licensed Fisheries Technologist. She finished her Baccalaureate Degree,
Bachelor of Science in Fisheries at Central Luzon State University. In the
same university, she finished her Master of Science in Aquaculture.
Madel Batang-Tanguilan is an Instructor of Cagayan State University. She

finished her Baccalaureate Degree, Bachelor of Science in Biology at
University of the Philippines- Baguio. She earned her Masters of Arts in
Biology under the Commission on Higher Education Continuing Education
Program at St. Marys University Bayombong. She is currently enrolled at
Cagayan State University taking her Ph. D. in Science Education.
Babylyn Paliwanan Canceran is a graduate of Bachelor of Secondary

Education Major in General Science at St. Louis College of Tuguegarao now
the University of St. Louis, Tuguegarao Cagayan. She also Finished her MS
Physics Education and Doctor of Philosophy Major in Science Education at
Cagayan State University Andrews Campus. She is currently Teaching
Science subjects at Cagayan State University Piat Campus and is also the
Coordinator of the Office of Student Development and Welfare and the Office
of the Quality Assurance of the said campus.
Jennifer Lloren Luyun is a graduate of Bachelor of Secondary Education

Major in Physical Science at Cagayan State University Andrews campus. She
finished Master of Science in Teaching Major in Chemistry and currently
earning her Ph.D. Science Education at the same institution. At present, she
is a Faculty of the College of Allied health Sciences of CSU Andrews Campus
teaching Physics, Chemistry and Earth Science.
Gwyn Manuel is a Marine Biologist and a Licensed Professional Teacher.

She finished Master of Science Teaching major in Biology at Cagayan State
University. Ms. Manuel was conferred by the Department of Science and
Technology the Scientific and Technological Specialist eligibility. Currently,
she is taking her Ph.D in Science Education at Saint Paul University
Tuguegaro City.
109

Science Technology and Society Module

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Table of Contents

Unit 1: General Concepts and STS Historical Development 1

At the end of this unit, students will be able to:

 Discuss the interactions between S&T and society throughout history;

 Discuss the paradigm shifts through history;

 Describe the technological advancements that happened in the

 Explain the role of Science and Technology in Philippine nation

 Evaluate government policies pertaining to science and technology in

 Identify actual science and technology policies of the government and

At the end of this topic, students will be able to:

 Discuss how scientific and technological developments affect society;

Activating Prior Learning

What I already Know What I Want to know What I have Learned

Science and Technology in Ancient Times

In the ancient times, people were concerned with transportation and

Figure 1.1 Sumerian Cuneiform ("Redirect Notice",

Figure 1.2 Hanging Garden of Babylon ("Image: Hanging

Figure 1.4 Pyramid of Giza ("Google Image

Figure 1.5 Papyrus ("Image:

Figure 1.8 Roman numeral system Figure 1. Roman aqueduct

Science and Technology in Middle Ages

To facilitate record keeping, woodlock printing developed by Chinese was

Figure 1.12 Johann Gutenberg Printing Press ("Image: Johannes

Figure 1.13 Zacharias Janssen’s Microscope ("Image: Molecular

Science and Technology in Modern Times

The booming world population during the nineteenth century onwards

The modern times demanded better means of powering homes and

Figure 1.15 Alexander Graham Bell’s Telephone ("Image: Inventor of the

Although an earlier version of the calculator had already been developed,

At the end of this topic, students will be able to:

 Discuss paradigm shifts through history;

Activating Prior Learning

The Man who moved the Sun

In the 16th century, Nicolaus Copernicus challenged the geocentric model by

Figure 2.1 Bold Man who challenged the Theory of Divine

Charles Darwin was an English naturalist who studied variation in plants,

Finally, as a result of Darwin's world expedition and observations, which were

Figure 2.2 Tree of Evolution ("Redirect Notice", 2019)

The Father of Psychoanalysis

Psychoanalysis is the study of human behavior. In his theory, Freud explained

Figure 2.4 Theory of Psychoanalysis ("Redirect Notice", 2019)

Science hardliners brushed off the legitimacy of psychoanalysis as a science

2. Evolution of human beings

 Explain the role of Science and Technology in Philippine nation

Activating Prior Learning

Watch: 1. Science and Technology: Moving the Philippines Forward

Good job! Let’s learn more as you go through this lesson.

Brief Historical Background of Science and Technology in the Philippines

Pre – Colonial Period

Spanish colonization paved way to modern means of construction. Roads,

Post – Colonial Period

After achieving independence from the colonial masters, the Philippines,

Filipino Presidents and their Contributions in the Development of Science

Philippine Presidents and the Status of S&T during their administration

Pres. Carlos P. Garcia (1957 - 1961)

-lack of support of experimental work

Pres. Ferdinand Marcos (1965 - 1986)

-directed the Department of Education to revitalize the science

Pres. Corazon Aquino (1986 - 1992)

- National Science and Technology Authority was replaced by the

Pres. Fidel V. Ramos (1992 - 1998)

-significant increase in personnel specializing in the science and

launched a full-scale program based on cost-effective irrigation