Digital - Module For Gen7

UNIT I.
GENERAL CONCEPTS AND HISTORICAL

ANTECEDENTS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Alpha B. Gumayagay
Overview
There is a secure connection between science and technology with

society, which began even in ancient times. The historical development of science
and technology was based on the needs and demands of the existing society. Unit
I gives you ideas on how science and technology evolved, starting from the ancient
world until the present time of ‘Information Age’. The unit will help you
understand how social considerations changed the course science and
technology. Additionally, you will become aware of the different factors that
increased and decreased science and technological advancements in the
Philippines and other countries.
Learning Objectives:
At the end of the unit, I am able to:
1. discuss how science and technology affect the environment and

society;
2. discuss the factors which affect the advancement of science and

technology;
3. identify the important persons throughout the history of science and

technology, and discuss the importance of science and technology in
society.
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Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Course/Year/Section: ___________________________
Directions: In order to meet the needs of ancient people, many technologies have
emerged. Answer the following questions based on your understanding of the
ancient world.
1. What are the technologies that arose in ancient times? How were these
technologies meet the needs of the primitive people?
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2. Give examples of ancient technologies from which our modern day

technologies evolved.
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Lesson Proper
Introduction to Science and Technology
What is Science?
‘Science’ can be explained into three definitions. First, science is a

branch of knowledge that seeks to understand and describe natural
phenomena such as thunder, seed germination, and tidal waves. Second,
‘science’ is an intellectual activity wherein it refers to the process of
systematic and objective investigation of the natural world.
Third, ‘science’ is a personal and social activity in which it makes way for
humans to have a better understanding of the world and their inner
selves, realizing that science is connected with everyone’s life and the
society.
What is Technology?
‘Technology’ can be defined as an artifact from which it refers to

products that are invented and are widely used by people such as a
printer, the computer, and television. Technology can be construed as
a technique. It refers to processes that benefit the different sectors of the
economy, like grafting and hydroponics for agriculture, surgery,
chemotherapy, biopsy, etc., in medicine. Technology can be described
as personal and social activity. Technology serves as a tool to improve and
facilitate human living and social interaction with others.
Science and Technology
Science and Technology affect each other in ways from which they
are needed so that each can be used successfully. Science is required to
progress technology as well as technology is necessary to improve
science.
Science
Technology
Figure 1. Dual interactions between science and technology
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Science and technology is described as a personal and social activities, they also
have dual interactions with society.
Science Technology
Society
Figure 2. Dual interactions of science and technology with

the society between science and technology
Ancient World
In early times, human ancestors used tools made from stones and woods
as technology during the stone age. The use of these progresses as the early
hunters developed skills and techniques to make weaponry through fire.
Interaction and migration of people came to the development and advancement
of this technology.
As population increases and food resources started to decrease, people

switched from foraging to agriculture. Humans started to cultivate the land to
plant different crops and domesticate animals as sources of meat and milk
products. This lead to the Agricultural Revolution, which started primarily in the
Middle East.
Through the Agricultural Revolution, many new plants and animals were
cultivated and domesticated for human consumption and feedstock. Humans
started to use, and metal and ceramic products. Copper is the first metal known
and used by man in 6500 BC. In this period, human settlement through towns
started.
Transportation was improved through the development of wheels.

Ceramics was further utilized, and communication prospered through the
invention of writing. Also, many products made from bronze, copper, and iron
began to emerge. This preceded the rise of civilizations from which scientific
knowledge and technological advancements further flourished through the rise
and improvement of bridges, roads, and agricultural irrigations.
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Classical Antiquity
The present perception and concept of science started in this period of

classical antiquity, which began in the center of mediterranean sea interlocking
between Greek and Roman civilizations. The Ionian School of Philosophy
particularly introduced the earliest form of the scientific method, which is based
on observation and reasoning.
Many Greek philosophers who laid the foundation of modern-day science

arose in this period. They are the ones who used the basic foundation of the
scientific method initially for the understanding of the natural world and the
universe. The significant philosophers of classical antiquity were Socrates, Plato,
and Aristotle.
Socrates (470-339 BC)
Socrates built the basic foundation of making a hypothesis, which

is the initial building block of the scientific method for specific research in
his known method of inquiry called elenchus. By applying this method, a
specific problem or situation was broken down into a series of questions
that need to be answered.
Plato (427-37 BC)
Plato highlighted the concept of having ‘proof’ in research. He

emphasized a clear hypothesis of understanding nature and believed that
all substances are made up of air, water, earth, and fire. Plato was a
student of Socrates.
Aristotle (384-322 BC)
Aristotle initiated the discipline of using the deductive method of

scientific inquiry. He established natural principles as achieved through
careful observation, which is also an essential component of the scientific
method. Aristotle was a student of Plato.
The center of scientific knowledge was established in the city of

Alexandria in Egypt. In Africa, the Edwin Smith Papyrus, one of the first
important scientific texts about ancient surgery methods, was made.
Another, the scientific discipline of chemistry through the process of
fermentation, distillation, and tanning, was also established.
The construction of the Great Wall of China was one of China's

technological achievements at that time.
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Middle Ages
The progression of science and technology turned to decrease due to the

onset of diseases, poverty, wars, and scarcity of food resources at the middle ages
during 530 AD. Another factor for this decline was the rise of Christianity in
Europe.
The rise of Christianity in Europe was also considered a factor in the

decline of science. The strong hindrance of the Church about early philosophers
and scientists' teachings and ideas greatly impacted the development of science
and technology. The Roman Empire, from 530 AD to 1000 AD, was not so much
interested in theoretical science.
As science seemed to decline in Europe, medicine remained and grew due

to an important need. The deadly plague ravaged Europe, and Christians felt the
need to further their knowledge of medicine to develop a cure. On the contrary,
the outbreak of the deadly disease that devastated Europe and Christians paved
the way to escalate the field of medicine to develop a cure or vaccine.
Due to this, the center of science and technology was lifted to Asia,
specifically in China and nearby countries. In India, for example, astronomy,
medicine, and mathematics became well-advanced. One of their important
contributions is the significance of the number zero in mathematics. Another to
be considered is the onset of Islamic civilization from which through this
civilization, new techniques, new chemicals such as borax, and new astronomical
table for the calculation of planetary positions, eclipses, and calendrical
information was established. In the field of medicine, new instruments and
treatment procedures were developed. However, there is a failure to advance the
area of anatomy as Islam disallow the process body autopsy during that time.
Emperor Charlemagne revived science in Europe wherein, he ordered the

establishment of schools that became centers of knowledge and discovery. Other
advancements in science and technology during the middle ages include the
development of clocks and moving objects and the utilization of water and wind
as sources of electricity.
The latter part of the Middle Ages was considered to be the Age of
Discovery and Exploration. These explorations were made possible through the
advancements in science and technology. Two of the most important
developments were ships made for long voyages and the compass's invention.
The progress in geography and cartography became so famous as human societies
spread after The Black Death in Europe.
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Modern Age
The need for Europe’s revival became more advantageous for science and
technology. This marked the end of the Middle Age and the start of the Modern
Age. The beginning of the modern age hastens technological advancements,
primarily for defense and trade. Many technologies were taught in universities.
Renaissance is a cultural movement that is based on humanism, which a

system of intellectual movement emphasizing the value of humans than
supernatural powers. During this period, many artists also became scientists such
as Leonardo da Vinci. In the latter part of the Renaissance, the Scientific
Revolution and foundation of England’s Royal Society emerged, giving rise to a
more organized community. Benjamin Franklin and Sir Isaac Newton and are the
two significant members of the society.
The Scientific Revolution advanced the field of astronomy due to the

invention of the telescope. The astronomers, Nicolaus Copernicus (1473-1573)
became the center of controversy due to his model of the heliocentric universe,
which was opposed by the church. This opposition marked the so-called
Copernican Revolution, a shift from a geocentric view of the universe to a
heliocentric model with the Sun at the center of the Solar System.
The invention of the microscope significantly advanced science during the

Renaissance period. Through the use of microscope, many microorganisms were
identified and the many types of diseases associated with them. This gave rise to
the formulation of antibiotics to prevent infections and inhibit the growth of
bacteria.
Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) was noted to be the leading figure of the

Scientific. He introduced experimentation using the scientific method and led the
development of modern science, making him the "father of the scientific method”
and the "father of modern science". He invented many equipment and devices as
well as many mathematical explanations to natural concepts.
The publication of Carolus Linnaues’ works on the biological classification

made him the “father of taxonomy”.
This age is also known as the period of ‘Enlightenment’, which highlighted

the importance of logical reasoning. This was a shift from the Renaissance
dominated by the teachings of the Church and the early Greek and Roman
philosophers. Sir Isaac Newton (1643-1727) worked on Principia, which
established the foundation of modern-day physics. He developed theories from
observations and experiments and used the scientific method in the
understanding of the natural world.
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The invention of the steam engine by James Watt (1736-1819) in 1765
made many industrial processes possible. Because of this, many other machines
that made things faster and more efficient were invented and paved the way for
the Industrial Revolution.
However, the Industrial Revolution's progression led to the rapid

destruction of the environment because of the pollution caused by these
industries. To obtain wood for charcoal, many forests were destroyed. Large
industries collected many natural resources and minerals to continue their
operation. Industrial wastes polluted rivers and other bodies of water. Many
disputes came during this period between the science community and the society
for the green environmental movement.
The theory of evolution proposed by Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace

became very controversial and was opposed by the church and the general
community. However, this theory was considered and accepted as a milestone in
the field of biology.
During the 19th century, more collaboration efforts among scientists

which gave rise to more discoveries and inventions. The communal between
scientists paved the way to advanced science faster than the previous centuries.
These scientific and technological advancements highly impacted society. Many
new lifestyles, habits, and recreations appeared due to advancements in
communication, transportation, entertainment, and wardrobe economy. The
demand for more technologies further expanded, and many people migrated to
cities. Many workers became more skilled and knowledgeable in their chosen
fields.
Scientific and technological advancements also gave way for the invention
of explosive weapons such as atomic bombs, nuclear bombs, and dynamites.
These developments led to more deaths and casualties during warfare.
The invention of plastics in the 1940’s and 1950s led to the development
of new appliances and products made from plastics. However, plastics became a
problem to the environment as significant pollutants affect wildlife habitat and
humans because of its deficient ability to degrade.
The discovery of the DNA structure in1953 by James Watson and Francis
Crick with the aid of Rosalind Franklin advanced the field of genetics and
molecular biology, leading to the development of gene therapy and genetic
engineering.
The period of the Agricultural revolution occurred in 1940 in the

development of the pesticide Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane or more
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commonly known as DDT. Other inventions that greatly helped this period were
hybrid seeds, organic/inorganic fertilizers, and farm machinery equipment. The
agricultural revolution helped the economy, especially the farmers, largely
because of better food production. However, DDT was found out to destructive
impacts on biodiversity and health. Hence, many movements for the environment
emerged as society’s response.
Moreover, the development of the internet, computers, softwares, and

other digital technologies marked the beginning ‘Digital Revolution’ or
‘Information Age’. These technologies also paved way for crowdsourcing, cyber
warfare, e-commerce, and distance learning. The digital revolution has greatly
affected the public. Nowadays, many people became addicted to using electronic
games and social media.
In the Philippines
Here in the Philippines, the history of science and technology is not clear.
However, based on archaeological findings, primitive Filipinos have simpler
technology than neighboring countries in Asia, such as China and India. Simple
stones and metal tools were used, which gave rise to the development of ceramics,
potteries, weavings, handicrafts, and other devices.
Since water bodies surround the Philippines, Filipinos created good

technology in shipbuilding in 1000 AD. These ships were used for transportation,
trading, and fishing.
In the 16th century, artillery was used by the Filipinos during their battle
against Spaniards. These good weapons include bows, spears, and swords. The
agricultural industry became a good source of income through practices such as
rice farming, crop production, livestock raising, and fishing, and forestry.
The onset of modern science and technology in the Philippines came upon
colonization of the Spaniards. Science as a profession arose after establishing
schools, hospitals, and research facilities that were controlled by religious sectors
at that time. However, the research discoveries and technologies were for the
benefit of Spain's colonial government, not for the Filipinos. The Church was so
influential and dominant in those times that the study of natural sciences was
discouraged.
During the Spanish time, there were only limited science courses available
for the Filipinos. Successful Filipino scientists went to Europe to gain study and
training. Some of these scientists were Leon Ma. Guerrero, Anacleta del Rosario,
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and Trinidad Pardo de Tavera. However, the science profession did not grow well
as the colonial government preferred Spanish scientists over Filipinos.
The end Spanish regime developed only two science professions, the
medicine, and pharmacy professions since the Philippines also became a
predominantly agricultural country. Industrial sectors such as the sugarcane and
tobacco industry were modernized due to the entry of foreign technology and
investments. At the same time, other areas, such as weaving, declined because of
a lack of support from the government.
Science and technology in the Philippines rapidly advanced due to

Americans. During the American settlement in the country, secularized public
schools were established wherein the early educators were Americans. The
University of the Philippines and the Philippine Normal College (now the
Philippine Normal University) were established. Scientific knowledge and many
technological advancements were taught primarily in those universities.
In 1905, the main research facility in the country until World War II was
established. This was the Bureau of Science responsible for doing researches
about science and technology. Since leprosy, dengue, and malaria were the most
frequent or common diseases, researchers focused on the development of the
cure for such diseases. In 1906, the Philippine Journal of Science was established
to report scientific findings and observations of Filipino scientists.
The ‘National Research Council of the Philippines’ was established in

1933 to promote scientific research. However, despite the increase in the number
of scientists and engineers of the country, the Philippines still relied heavily on
agriculture due to its vast resource of tropical crops. During the Commonwealth
period, the government-supported many industries which made scientific
productivity came to increase. Many Filipinos went abroad for post-graduate
studies until World War II stopped the scientific and technological progress.
In 1947, the Bureau of Science was replaced by the Institute of science. In

1952, the Science Foundation of the Philippines was established to promote
science among Filipinos.
After World War II, scientific and technological development was revived.
Because of this, more institutions for higher education were established. Science
and technology in the country further developed due to increased government
support and higher public awareness. More scientists, scientific researches, and
scientific organizations grew and came up. However, the Philippines is still
behind its neighboring Asian countries in terms of scientific outputs. One of the
reasons for these is that Filipinos' general performance in science and
mathematics is generally not good.
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Based on a study done in 1957, there were four key reasons for the sudden
decline of science and technology in the Philippines. These four key reasons
include the
1. ) lack of government support,
2. ) many outstanding scientists have died or went abroad,
3. ) low morale among local scientists, and
4. ) low awareness about general public science.
References
Bandhari, S. (2017). Top 10 Contributions of Aristiotle in scientific Field.

Retrieved january 20, 2019, from Still Unfold.Com:
https://stillunfold.com/science/top-10-contributions-of-aristotle-to-
science.
Bunch, B., & Hellesman. A. (2004). The History of Science and Technology. New
York: Houghton Mifflin Company.
Caoli, O. C. (1986). A History of Science and Technology in the Philippines.

Diliman, Quezon City, University of the Philippines Science Research
Foundation.
Department of Science and Technology. (2014, April 26). About History and Logo.
Retrieved January 2o, 2019, from Department of Science and Technology:
https://www.dost.gov.ph/tranaprency/about-dost/history-and-
logo.html
Jan, D., & Haward, H. (2006). Science & Technolgy Historical Timeline. Retrieved
January 20, 2019, from Bridge Online: http://www.bridge-online.cz/wp-
content/uploads/2016/09/38_science_and_technology.pdf
McClellan III, J. E. & Dorn, H. (2015). Science and Technology in World History: An
Introduction (r3d ed,) Baltimore,
McGinn, R. E. (1991). Science, technology, and society. Englewood Cliffs, NJ:

prentice hall, 301 pp,,
Nebres, B. F. (2007). Building a Science Culture in the Philippines. Trans. Natl.

Acad. Sci. & Tech. Philippines, 29, 177-196.
Offor, f. (2012). Socrates, science and Technology. Canadian Social Science, 8(4),
101-107
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Weisstein, E. (n.d.) Plato. Retrieved January 20, 2019, from Wolfram Research:
http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/biography/Plato.html
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Assessing Learning
Activity 1
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Course/Year/Section: ___________________________ Score: _______________________
Directions: The following grid contains terms names associated with science and
technology. Look for them in any directions and encircle. (20 pts.)
G A L I L E O G A L I L E I B C S Q W E
B V Z N A S E T A R C O S D E F C R T Y
U X Z A S D F G O W W S O X C H I N A T
I N F O R M A T I O N A G E R A E B B I
I C H P I N C H C R O U T E A R N I C E
R E N A I S S A N C E L P J E W C W E L
O V J Q A J U L I B R H A N G E E L Y P
P B K A D A R U T E C H N O L O G Y A L
A N L S W I N S N G S I A N G G E R N A
S M W S O M E O A R W O R L D W A R I T
C L A S S I C A L R R M I E L U I G U O
D M E D A N E A A M A S C H O O L S Y F
F N R F A G A D Y A L P H A O M E S R A
E U R O P E S T O N E G A O I N D I A R
G B T G E E L D A N G I J A Y E M A M M
H V Y Y L R L I N N A E U S N E L L E I
J C U R K A N C P N Y A N A T I E N T N
K X A A N C I E N T W O R L D C E I A G
L H I P H E T A S V H T A E D K C A L B
C Z O J I R S E N I P P I L I H P T U E
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Activity 2
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Briefly answer the following questions.
1. What were the problems of the society that science and technology wants
to address?
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2. What are the significance of these advancements in science and

technology?
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3. What are the negative impacts of these advancements in science and

technology in the society?
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4. If you are given a chance to change a certain invention, what will be your
suggestion or other idea?
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Activity 3
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Write an essay on each of following questions. (Minimum of 100

words, and maximum of 200 words). Use a separate piece of paper if necessary.
1. The COVID-19 pandemic has displayed the interconnection of society

around the world. This coronavirus is considered the greatest challenge
of science and technology after world war II. What do you think is the
effect of COVID-19 on the environment, now and in the future? What is
society's role in helping the science and development research sector
prevent the spread of the virus? What is the role of science and technology
to attain social protection and sustainable economy while providing
solutions for COVID-19, such as making vaccines and medicines?
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2. What are the impacts of science and technology in society in terms of

economy, leisure, employment, or unemployment? What do you think are
the responsibilities of science and technology in society. In your own
opinion, does public trust in science and technology matter during times
of pandemic? Why?
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UNIT II. INTELLECTUAL REVOLUTION THAT DEFINED THE
SOCIETY
Olympia O. Riogelon
Overview
In the previous unit, you have learned how scientific and technological
development affects society. You became familiar with the interactions of science,
technology, and society through antecedents of history. Thus, you fully
understood now a glimpse of concepts on STS historical development.
In this unit, you will learn about the development of science and scientific
ideas in society. Activities included will allow you to figure out the different
intellectual revolutions like Copernican, Darwinian and Freudian, and other
intellectual revolutions that shaped the society. In this unit, you will also
appreciate the various contributions of some selected great civilizations found on
the world that adds transformation to the science and technology that build
significant changes to the heart of the society.
1. differentiate intellectual revolution to scientific revolution;
2. analyze intellectual revolutions like Copernican, Darwinian and

Freudian; and
3. appreciate contributions of some selected world civilizations like in

Mesoamerican, Middle East, African and Asian Civilizations.
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Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: The following grid contains 10 words associated with intellectual

revolution. Find and encircle them. Look for them in all directions including
backwards and diagonally.
N I C H O L A S C O P E R N I C U S R S K H
G X O L L E U I X P L I X O A H H U N T N I
S M M P R J W Q C H J Q K U B I F P A U P N
O N P R U B B E R B A L L S C N K E I D W D
E X U M S D O L Q Z X F I Y D A J R D V Q U
A C Q B L A W C O D E S K M W M L E U W O I
K B H O W V O F Y P O M K N E P M G E X G S
W L K G Q R Z W K T I N L O X A O O R Y E M
C H A R L E S D A R W I N W G S P Q F Z K L
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Lesson Proper
Intellectual Revolution vs. Scientific Revolution
Frontlearners Module (2019) defined Intellectual Revolutions as the

historical changes in thoughts, beliefs, and social institutions due to new ideas
and principles like Copernican, Darwinian, and Freudian. It may also refer to the
historical period when science became more important and influential during the
Middle Ages. Intellectual Revolution also considered a golden age in the history
of science because it marked the birth of science as a discipline wherein many
scientific ideas and discoveries were developed. Meanwhile, Frontlearners
Module (2019) cited that when science and technology are the centers of an
intellectual revolution, it can be called then as a Scientific Revolution.
Some Intellectuals Who Made Essential Contributions in Science during the

Period of Scientific Revolutions:
❖ Nicholas Copernicus (Copernican) – developed a model of the universe in

which everything moved around a single center at unvarying rates. He
placed the sun in the center of the universe, and all the planet were
surrounding or orbiting it. Copernicus’ Model of planets orbiting around
the sun automatically positioned the planets into a logical sequence [Ang,
R., Cruz, J., et al. (2018)].
Heliocentric Model – adopted to used to prove the idea that the sun is
the center of the solar system.
❖ Charles Darwin (Darwinian) - His theory of evolution by natural selection

(process) is instrumental in many fields until now. Content of Darwin’s
Theory of Evolution. All organisms are related and have descended from
a common ancestor. Variation in a population helps different species to
survive. The animals that do survive and reproduce are better-adapted
organisms (survival of the fittest). A random genetic mutation occurs
within an organism's genetic code, aid survival [Ang, R., Cruz, J., et al.
(2018)].
❖ Sigmund Freud (Freudian) - developed the idea of psychoanalysis that

helped in understanding human behavior, especially neurological
conditions. Human actions result from the interactions among three parts
of the mind: id, ego, and superego [Ang, R., Cruz, J., et al. (2018)].
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➢ Id – part of the personality that is present at birth; primitive
personality existed within unconscious.
➢ Super ego - include the ideas of right and wrong acquired from
society and the culture. Overpower the urges of the id and tries
to make the ego morally, rather than realistically. Composed of
people's internalized ideals acquired from parents and society.
➢ Ego – less primitive than the Id, partly conscious and

unconscious. It facilitates the demands of the Id, superego and
reality. - It prevents people from acting on the basic urges created
by the id and works to balance their moral and idealistic
standards created by the superego.
Information Revolution
Accompanied the history of mankind and began as early as 3000 BC with

Sumerian Pictographs. - Triggers profound changes both in the way of lives and,
in a way, perceive the self as human beings[Ang, R., Cruz, J., et.al (2018)].
Milestone on Information Revolution are:
o 1455, Johannes Gutenberg’s invention on printing press.
o Early 1830s, Charles Babbage worked on Analytical Engine.
o During 1870s, Invention of the first telephone.
o During World War II, Alan Turing refining the concept of algorithms and
computation using the Turing Machine. He contributed to the Turing test
concerning the possibility of developing a conscious and thinking
machine in Artificial Intelligence.
Science provided different ancient civilizations the means to survive and

understand the natural and physical world. Helped humans to develop various
technologies used in everyday tasks. Cited below are some ancient civilizations
and their significant contributions that defined the society [Ang, R., Cruz, J., et.al
(2018)].
Mesoamerican Civilization
- Located in the region and cultural area in the Americas - Contributed

greatly in agriculture ( as early as 7000 BC)
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- Transition from hunter-gatherer tribal groupings to the organization of
sedentary agricultural villages.
- Main food sources were beans, corns, & squash (a triad of products known
as the “three sisters”; introduce the rotational crops and slash-and-burn
aided in retaining the nutrients in the soil.
- Value cacao as an essential crop because it is used as a trade currency and

in rituals.
- Cotton plant & rubber trees used for making culturally significant
products like textile (vibrant colors) and rubber balls (used in
performance games) due to ritual significance.
- Created chinampas (plots of mud and soil placed on top layers of thick
water vegetation)
- First, to use irrigation techniques.
- First one to create calendar (like civil calendar or Haab and Tzolkin
Calendar).
Asian Civilization
- Asia bore 2 of the world’s great early civilizations: From India & China
- Birth of the two world’s known religion: Hinduism & Buddhism.
- In Hinduism, based on Vedas (4 sacred books; believed written by Aryan

People); People believed to be divided into a “caste system”; Priests called
- Brahmans (ranked highest) and the “untouchables” as lowest.
- In Buddhism, praise Buddha (meaning “The Enlightened One”) who is in

the person of Siddharta Gautama (believed that human greed and
selfishness lead to human pain).
- Another religion Confucianism, developed along the Huang Ho riverbank

in Northern China, based on the teaching of Confucius.
- Created the Great Wall of China, built to protect from invasions of

“barbarians” from other parts of Asia.
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Middle East Civilization
- Considered as the home to the “Cradle of Civilization” (seen world’s oldest

culture and civilization).
- First to practice intensive year-round agriculture and currency-mediated

trade as opposed to barter.
- Gave the rest of the world the first writing system.
- Laying the foundation for astronomy and mathematics.
- Created the first generalized government and law codes.
- Invented the clay cylinder seals (on which little pictures of objects could
be recorded.
- Early writings evolved from pictures baked on clay tablets.
African Civilization
- According to some historians, Africans were nothing more than savages

whose only contributions to the world were farming and slaves.
- Lineage and culture of achievements emerged at least 40,000 years ago in

Africa. Some were the following:
• Developed modern concepts in mathematics like the first method of

counting.
• People in present-day Zaire and Yoruba (now Nigeria) developed

Numeration system 8,000 years ago.
• In the Yoruba, the system lauded this system because it required

much abstract reasoning. African Stonehenge (in present-day Kenya)
constructed around 300 BC the remarkably accurate calendar.
• Meanwhile, Dogon people of Mali have various astronomical

discoveries like Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s moon, the spiral structure of
the Milky Way, and the orbit of the Sirius Star.
• They built great architectural Monuments along the Nile like Great
Pyramid of Giza, Great Sphinx of Giza, great cities like in Zimbabwe &
21
Mozambique (made of massive stone complex and huge castle-like
compounds existed).
• The Empire of Mali boasted impressive cities, including Tumbuktu

with grand palaces, mosques & UNIVERSITIES in the 13th century.
• In Medicine, some practices were: use of plants with salicylic acid for
pain, kaolin for diarrhea, and extracts that confirmed to kill Gram-
Positive bacteria.
• Other plants used had anticancer properties, caused abortion, and

treated malaria.
• Some medical procedures performed in ancient Africa: Vaccination,

autopsy, limb traction and broken bone setting, bullet removal, brain
surgery, skin grafting, filling of dental cavities, installation of false
teeth, anesthesia and tissue cauterization.
References
Ang, R., Cruz, J., et. al. 2018. Science, Technology and Society. Muntinlupa City:
Panday-Lahi Publishing House, Inc.
Alata, E.J., Pawilen, G.,et.al. 2018. Science, Technology and Society. First Edition.
Manila: Rex Book Store, Inc.
https://frontlerners.com/blended/ 4/20/2020
22
Assessing Learning
Activity 4
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: One of the focus of intellectual revolution is to highlight the different

scientific ideas that define the present society. Have you ever ask yourself about
the relationship of science and society? With this, answer briefly the following
questions by writing on spaces provided: (5 points each)
1. As student, how do you see connection between science and society?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. How science shaped the society?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. Cite two (2) scientific ideas that defined our society.

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
23
Activity 5
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Using Venn diagram answer/ differentiate the following:
A. Intellectual Revolution and Scientific Revolution
B. Positive and Negative influence of Intellectual Revolutions like

Copernican, Darwinian and Freudian to the society.
C. Pros and cons of knowing some of the contributions of selected world

ancient civilizations like in Mesoamerican, Middle East, Africa and Asian
Civilizations.
24
Activity 6
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Before you begin writing, read the passage carefully and plan what you
will say. Your essay should be as well organized and as carefully written as you
can make it.
Discuss your insight on the quotation made by Charles Darwin: “It is not the
strongest the species that survive nor the most intelligent but the one most
responsive to change.” Write your answers on the spaces provided.
Scoring Guide:
Focus = 30%
Organization = 30%
Sentence Fluency and Word Choice = 20%
Conventions = 20%__
Total =100%
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
25
Activity 7
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: As an STS student, create your poem with at least 5-stanza using the
free verse format. Your objective is to show your understanding and appreciation
of any of the different scientific ideas cited under the intellectual revolution that
you have learned in this unit. The challenge is how you will show the positive and
negative impact of your selected topic to us.
You will be graded base on the following:

Content = 40%
Originality = 30%
Neatness/clarity of the poem = 20%
Creativity =10%__
Total: 100%
26
UNIT III. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AND NATION
BUILDING
Julius Jay N. Rodriguez
Overview
This module gives you an idea about the general concepts of Science and
technology and its importance in building the nation. Having a strong science and
technology foundation will help to achieve significant breakthroughs. Various
significant changes that happened in the society are brought about by Science and
its technology.
But what does happen to Science and technology in the Philippine setting?
Let us look at it very carefully.
1. discuss the role of Science and technology in Philippine nation-

building;
2. evaluate government policies on Science and technology in terms of

their contributions to nation-building;
3. identify the government's actual science and technology policies and

appraise their impact on the Filipino nation; and
4. cite the importance of science-related programs and projects in the

development of the Philippines economy.
27
Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: Science and technology plays an integral part in human development

and society. With this stance, answer the following questions on spaces provided.
1. Why is science and technology important in nation building?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. How can science and technology help build our nation?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
28
Lesson Proper
Importance of Science and Technology in Building the Nation
Science and Technology (S&T) are fundamental for social and economic
progress in developing countries. It is a well-established fact that Science and
technology impact all aspects of our lives and the planet we live in. The Science
and technology-induced changes have, for the most part, benefited humankind.
However, science and technology-based innovations have been overused and
misused that may harm humanity, pursued wealth and power, or both, which is
the responsibility of all concerned to ensure that science and technology are used
responsibly for the good of humankind. (Ratnasiri, 2006).
In the Philippines, the critical role of Science and Technology is

recognized: (1) In the 1987 Philippine constitution, Science and technology are
given priority to "foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate social progress, and
promote total human liberation and development."; (2) In section 10, Article XIV,
it is stated that "Science and technology are essential for national development and
progress."
Philippine Government Science and Technology Agenda
How the Philippine Government manages and develops Science and

technology through its policies and program? The government mandates an
"increase use of scientific and technological breakthroughs." The government
aims to do this by "promoting and accelerating technology adoption" and
stimulating innovation." It is based on the Philippine Development Plan 2017-
2022.
The Philippine Department of Science and Technology (DOST; Kagawaran

ng Agham at Teknolohiya) is the Philippine government's executive agency
responsible for organizing science and technology-related programs, Philippines,
and for formulating science and technology policies and initiatives to promote
national growth. This agency established to "provide central guidance,
leadership, and coordination of research and technical activities and ensure that
the findings from such activities are directed and used in areas of full economic
and social benefits for the people." DOST is composed of three (3) sectoral
planning councils, seven (7) research, and development institutes, two (2)
collegial bodies, six (6) service institutes, and several regional and provincial
offices (Department of Science and Technology, 2014)
Each of DOST 's programs, projects, and activities aims to produce the
following outcomes.
29
1. Stimulation and innovation
2. Promotion and acceleration of technology adoption
3. Development of critical mass of globally competitive human resources on

Science and Technology
4. Increased productivity and efficiency of micro, small, and medium

entrepreneurs (MSMEs)
5. Ensure resiliency to disaster risks and climate change
6. Reduced inequality in science and technology capacities and

opportunities
7. Achieve practical science and technology governance
Major Development Programs and Personalities in Science and Technology

in the Philippines
Balik Scientist Program
Our Science and Technology workers' continued migration

abroad has led to brain drain in our country. The Department of Science
and Technology has improved the Balik Scientist Program (BSP) to
reverse the brain drain. The Balik Scientist Act of 2018 or RA 11035
signed by the President last June 2018. This program aims to sustain and
make the program more attractive to Philippine scientists working and
residing abroad.
The Balik Scientist Program encourages scientists, technologists,

and experts from the Philippines to return to our country, to share their
expertise for the country's technological, agro-industrial, and economic
growth, including building human resources in science, technology, and
innovation. As of December 2017, 497 scientists served under the
program. Most of our National Artists came from Asia, North America and,
a few from Europe, Australia, and Africa (Dimailig, 2019)
The Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural

Resources Research and Development (PCAARD), Philippine Council for
Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development
(PCIEERD), and Philippine Council for Health Research and Development
30
(PCHRD) are the three DOST councils responsible for the engagements of
the BSP awardees.
Order of National Scientist
The award Order of National Scientists is the highest distinction

for a Filipino by the President of the Republic of the Philippines, with
exceptional scientific and technical achievements. The difference
instituted in 1976 through Presidential Decree 1003-A, which created the
National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) as the country's
highest recognition and advisory body in Science and technology. NAST
recognizes national scientists annually for outstanding individual or joint
accomplishments in Science or technology and gives the President the
rank and title. Executive Order 236 lifted the status of National Scientists
into the Order of National Scientists in 2003. (University of the Philippines
Diliman, 2020)
As of 2018, there are 41 National Scientists. Two of them are

engineer agriculturist Ramon Barba and biologist Angel Alcala.
Small and Medium Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP)
SETUP stands for Small and Medium Enterprise Technology

Upgrading Program is one of the flagship programs of DOST. SETUP is a
national strategy aimed at encouraging and assisting small and medium-
sized enterprises in adopting technology innovations to improve their
operations, thus boosting their productivity and competitiveness. The
program helps businesses to tackle their technological challenges through
technology transfer and development interventions.
According to DOST, in 2018, the companies supported by SETUP

produced: 42,853 jobs, P 8.344 billion cumulative gross sales, and 41%
productivity increase, a total of 20635 technology inventions, and There
773 projects funded.
Grants-In-Aid Program
The Grants-In-Aid (GIA) is one of the programs of the Department

of Science and Technology that aims to harness the country's scientific
and technical capacities to promote sustainable economic growth and
development. The GIA program is structured by funding related science
and technology (S&T) undertakings to contribute to Filipinos'
productivity and quality of life through the generation and promotion of
appropriate technologies. It also aims to reinforce participation, transfer,
31
use of technology, human resources development, dissemination of
information, advocacy, and linkages.
The GIA program offers grants for implementing

programs/projects defined in the current DOST priorities and thrusts and
supports S&T activities classified under the General Appropriations Act
(GAA).
Forest Products Research and Development Institute
The Forest Products Research and Development Institute (FPRDI)

researches forest products from wood and non-wood. It is the center of
applied technologies in the country for the utilization of forest products.
Legal Basis:
• Executive Order No. 257 (1957). The transferred the Forest Products
Research Institute (FPRI) from the Bureau of Forestry of the
Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources to the University of
the Philippines (as Forest Products Laboratory).
• Republic Act No. 5526 (June 21, 1969) created the Forest Products
Research and Development Commission (FORPRIDECOM) under the
National Science Development Board (NSDB).
• Executive Order No. 784 (March 17, 1982) renamed the NSDB to the
National Science and Technology Authority (NSTA), and the
FORPRIDECOM became the Forest Products Research and
Development Institute (FPRDI).
• Executive Order No. 128 (January 30, 1987) reorganized the NSTA
into the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), with the
FPRDI being retained under it.
Philippine Nuclear Research Institute
The Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI), formerly the

Philippine Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), was founded on June 13,
1958. It is one of the research institutes within the Department of Science
and Technology. It is authorized to perform research and development
activities on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, aiming to lay down
regulations on these uses and enforce those regulations. This will help
protect the health and safety of workers and the general public.
32
Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards)
Project NOAH was an integrated disaster prevention and

mitigation program of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
This project designed to employ Science and technology to produce
reliable data and meet the conditions required by national government
agencies, private sector stakeholders, and academy to make informed
decisions on disaster risk management activities. Project NOAH aims to
fulfill its vision of disaster-free and empowered communities by
providing open access to accurate, reliable, and timely hazard and risk
information that has been updated and enhanced using advanced
technology. This also undertakes research projects to develop technology
and resources that further strengthen government capacity and help the
public plan for and respond to disasters.
In March 2017, study, development, and extension services on

natural hazards, disaster risk management, and climate change actions
developed at the University of the Philippines as the UP NOAH Centre.
Philippine-California Advanced Research Institutes (PCARI) Project
The Philippine-California Advanced Research Institutes (PCARI)

project is a new approach to enhance the skills and abilities of Philippine
universities and colleges' faculty and staff through scholarships, training
and research collaborations with leading research universities in
California, USA, in the priority areas of information infrastructure
development (IID) and health innovation and translational medicine
(HITM).
Philippine Space Program
The Philippines' space program is technically decentralized and

managed under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) by
different agencies. It aims to set the foundation for the establishment of a
Philippine Space Agency. The Philippine government passed the
"Philippine Space Act" (Republic Act 11363) in 2019. It is under the newly
formed Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) to see the integration and
centralization of space research and development.
The development of the space program is essential for national

security, agricultural development, environmental management, and
climate change mitigation. The program aims to develop technologies
such as uncrewed aerial vehicles, microsatellites, and communication
satellites.
33
Science Education in the Philippines
Science is part of the K to 12 curriculum, which focuses on improving

student scientific literacy skills, beliefs, and attitudes, such as objectivity,
curiosity, integrity, and habits of mind, including critical and logical thinking
skills. Science stimulates learners' interest and knowledge of phenomena and
events of the world around them. In general, all these skills, values, attitudes, and
dispositions are likewise relevant to the individual student for his personal
development, future career, and life.
Science is relevant because of its links to technology and industry, which,

from a national perspective, are areas of high development priority. Scientific
research provides a systematic way to make sense of the world.
DOST Scholarship Programs
The DOST-SEI Merit Scholarship Program mandated under the

Republic Act 7687 or the Science and Technology Act of 1994. The
program is awarded to highly qualified students in Science and
mathematics and can pursue careers in science and technology. Most
Filipino scientists, inventors, innovators, engineers, and professionals
have benefited from DOST scholarship programs.
Philippine Science High School
The Philippine Science High School System (PSHS) is a highly

specialized public high school system in the Philippines that operates as
an attached DOST agency. It is considered the top high school in the
Philippines and ranked among the highest in the ASEAN region in 2016. It
has 16 campuses located in the following areas nationwide.
Regional Science High School Union
The Regional Science High School Union (RSHS-Union)

established in the Philippines during the 1994-1995 school year. It is a
specialized system of public secondary schools managed and regulated by
the Department of Education, with a curriculum that focuses heavily on
Math and Science.
The DOST established several programs to improve science education in

the country, such the following: (1) Project HOTS; (2) VISSER; (3) STAR BOOKS;
and (4) InnoBox Project.
34
Indigenous Science and Technology in the Philippines
The indigenous Science and technology in the Philippines are rich in

cultural diversity. Our country has more than 100 tribes or groups, and each has
a different but interconnected indigenous science and technology.
Many herbal medicines that we are currently using to treat some diseases
have an indigenous origin. Many indigenous practices in resource management
have been documented, like the muyong system in Ifugao and the lapat system
in Apayao.
References
Braan-Imai, R. (2018, October 2). Watershed Sentinel. Retrieved from Indigenous

Science and Technology:
https://watershedsentinel.ca/articles/indigenous-science-technology/
Bueno, D. C. (2019). Science, Technology and Society. Mandaluyong City: Books

Atbp. Publishing Corp.
Commission on Higher Education. (2019). Retrieved from Philippine-California

Advanced Research Institutes: https://ched.gov.ph/philippine-california-
advanced-research-institute-pcari/
Department of Science and Technology. (2014, April 26). Retrieved from The DOST
in Brief: http://www.dost.gov.ph/transparency/about-dost/history-and-
logo.html
Dimailig, C. J. (2019, June 25). Philippine Council for Health Research and
Development. Retrieved from Balik Scientist Program (BSP): Balik Puso,
Balik Pilipinas: http://www.pchrd.dost.gov.ph/index.php/news/6455-
balik-scientist-program-bsp-balik-puso-balik-pilipinas
DOST Region 9. (2016, September). Retrieved from Small Enterprise Technology

Upgrading Program: http://www.region9.dost.gov.ph/products-and-
services
Giacomin, N. (2019, November 18). Space Legal Issues. Retrieved from The
Philippine Space Act: https://www.spacelegalissues.com/the-philippine-
space-act/
Ilagan, Y. A. (2018). Science Technology and Society. Muntinlupa City: Panday-Lahi

Publishing House Inc.
35
Ratnasiri, N. (2006). The role of Science and Technology in Nation Building. J.
Natn. Sci. Foundation, 113.
Science Education Institute (SEI)-Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

(2019). Retrieved from
http://www.sei.dost.gov.ph/index.php/programs-and-projects
SEI-DOST Region 8. (2005). Retrieved from Grants in Aid Program:

http://region8.dost.gov.ph/programs-services
University of the Philippines Diliman. (2020). Retrieved from National Scientists:

https://upd.edu.ph/national-scientists
36
Assessing Learning
Activity 8
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Answer the following questions by writing on spaces provided.
1. Discuss the important role of science and technology in the following

field/sector:
a. Health
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
b. Social Services
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
c. Agriculture
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
d. Economy
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
e. Natural disasters
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
37
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
f. Environment
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
2. Among the research agenda, which do you think is most appropriate to

your community? Evaluate your answer.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. Explain how the following programs/projects were able to contribute to

nation building.
a. Balik Scientist Program

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
b. Small and Medium Enterprise Technology Upgrading Program

(SETUP)
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
c. Grants-in-Aid Program
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
38
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
d. Project NOAH
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
e. Philippine Space Program

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
39
Activity 9
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
1. Discuss the important role of science education in the development of the

country.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. As a student, what problems have you experienced in Philippine science

education? What solution/s can you recommend to address these
problems?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. If you were given a chance to talk with the President of your university,
what aspects of science education would you suggest to change, and why?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
4. How do you differentiate the science courses in high school under K12
curriculum and the science courses before its implementation?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
40
Activity 10
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
1. Provide specific examples to differentiate indigenous science from

indigenous technology.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. What is the role of indigenous science in the development of science and

technology in the Philippines?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
41
UNIT IV. HUMAN FLOURISHING
Danny O. Alfonso
Overview
This unit gives you an idea of how humans can flourish, what is Human
Flourishing from a different point of view, how to flourish, and the impact of
technology in humans. This will help you analyze the difference between human
flourishing in philosophers' views and the modern world concept. You will also
identify the negative and positive effects of technology and how it affects humans.
This chapter will reflect your life in self-actualization. So that you will know your
role in society as a student and as a human as well. Also, you will be able to deeply
understand your needs (emotional aspect; strength and weakness) and how you
will overcome it.
1. define flourishing in philosopher point of view and modern world

concept;
2. familiarize with the two Greek philosophers and their opinion on

virtue;
3. appreciate the application of technology and its relation to human

flourishing; and
4. explain the connection of human flouring to science and technology
42
Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: “The true secret of happiness lies in the taking a genuine interest in all
the details of daily life”. One of the best quotes that define happiness by William
Morris. Have you asked yourself if you are happy? With this, answer the following
questions by writing on the space provided.
1. What is your own definition of happiness?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. When is the last time you feel happy and how did you feel it?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. Give a situation in your life that you feel down/miserable and what did
you do to overcome it?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
4. What makes you happy?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
43
Lesson Proper
Human Flourishing
According to Aristotle, Human is defined as a rational animal because they

can think and use reason consistently. The way human beings do things is by
making rational choices that take specific actions or scientific investigations that
are mostly in-line in their personal preferences. Hence, a human being is a person
who makes up society and is responsible for the research and innovations
currently being used and existing today. Understanding the behavior of humans
(strength and weakness), their nature, values, norms, needs (material or
spiritual), and how to cater to these is an essential tool to live a flourishing life.
A. Human Flourishing: Based on Ancient Greek Philosophers’ Perspective.
Flourishing. It is a state where people experience positive emotions and

positive social functioning (. Is a descriptor and a measure of positive mental
health in life well-being (the state of being happy, healthy or prosperous).
How to live a flourishing life?
Two of the most recognized Greek Philosophers that tries to

answer the question. PLATO and ARISTOTLE. These great philosophers
called flourishing life as “EUDAIMONIA”; it is usually associated with
HAPPINESS. For them, happiness is the result of eudaimonia or human
flourishing.
PLATO’S interpretation of “Human Flourishing”
PLATO (428/427 – 348/347 B.C.). For him, “all human beings

naturally desire eudaimonia or human flourishing”. To be flourish, Plato
believed that one must have moral thought and virtuous action.
(VIRTUE – trait or quality that is deemed to be morally good). The well-
being of a human individual must NOT depend on external goods (such as
fame, wealth, good appearance). To live just for the sake of these external
goods will not lead to flourishing.
If having a VIRTUE is needed in order to FLOURISH, How does

one develop virtue? According to Plato, Human being can develop virtue
by the following:
44
1. By examining things and thinking more
2. By masterly using reason
3. By living the Four Cardinal Virtues (Wisdom, Courage,
Temperance, Justice)
By examining things and thinking more
Plato believed that humans can reason and must use it to become
wiser to flourish. He said that human being who does not examine his or
her life and surroundings would not flourish.
By masterly using reason
According to Plato, using reason over desires makes human to be

good. Reasoning allows the control of oneself, and limiting one’s reason
may result in negative consequences. A human can flourish if he or she can
control itself through reason and act for the common good.
By living the four cardinal virtues
Wisdom: The quality of having experience, knowledge, and good

judgement; the quality of being wise. One must pursue learning based on
curiosity, which leads to more efficacy and self-mastery, which are needed
to have a fulfilling life.
Courage: It is important to have courage in society today; it is

needed to face life’s challenges because JUSTICE needs courageous
individuals to stand for what is right and to correct what is wrong.
Temperance: According to Joel (2011), it is defined as moderation

or voluntary self-restraint. Plato believed that having temperance prevents
corruption and chaos. It is important in the society because a human
without temperance will not flourish since lack of self-restraint can lead to
vices and violence.
ARISTOTLE’S interpretation of “Human Flourishing”.
ARISTOTLE (384-322 B.C.) He explained that eudaimonia or

human flourishing is the highest good of human beings. Zey (2001)
introduced the Rational Choice Theory, which is used to model human
decision making. It explains the behavior of human being in order to satisfy
human needs.
45
What are the aspects of Human Nature?
There are four aspects of Human nature according to Aristotle.

1. Physical
2. Emotional
3. Social
4. Rational
Humans are Physical Being. For humans, to keep their body

physically and mentally functioning, they need air, water, food rest, and
exercise.
Humans are Emotional Being. Humans are the highest forms of

animals. Like any other animals, humans have needs, desires, and wants.
Humans have emotional needs to express different emotions in such
reaction.
Humans are Social Being. The feeling of satisfaction, flourishing, or

well-being can be experienced when learning to socialized. As social
beings, it is inherent that humans need friendship, companions,
cooperation, and a sense of belongingness in society.
Humans are Rational Being. As Aristotle said, a human is defined

as a rational animal because they can think and use reason consistently.
Rationality is what differentiates humans from other animals. It allows
human to express, be creative, or obey reason.
How does human become more virtuous?
For Aristotle, a virtue is a character trait that enables a person to

flourish. Just like Plato, Aristotle believed that humans, through reason,
seek knowledge about the world. He also believed that by gaining
knowledge, humans would flourish. He called it “INTELLECTUAL
VIRTUE” (According to King (2014), intellectual virtue is an excellent
personal trait or character strength that is deemed to be morally good for
thinking and learning and is often associated with knowledge and
cognitive ability.) Aristotle made an important distinction between
knowledge and human flourishing.
2 Types of Knowledge:
1. Theoretical knowledge. This type of knowledge is about the nature

of the principle. It allows us to manipulate nature; however, without
practical knowledge, it cannot be done.
46
2. Practical knowledge. This is the knowledge of applying principles.
Thus, knowledge is very important in life, but it is the application of
this knowledge that leads to flourishing.
Aside from intellectual virtue, the other virtue in life is the virtue of
character. Aristotle believed that to flourish, one must possess the 11
virtuous traits. (Courage, temperance, liberality, magnificence,
magnanimity, patience, truthfulness, wittiness, friendliness, justice, and
Shame). In addition, Aristotle stated that all virtues are connected
by PHRONESIS or “PRACTICAL WISDOM”. It enables an individual to
apply the appropriate virtue in each situation. A virtuous life can be
attained through education and habit. In summary, when an individual
possesses INTELLECTUAL VIRTUE and VIRTUES OF CHARACTER, he or
she will attain EUDAIMONIA or HUMAN FLOURISHING.
B. Human Flourishing: A Modern World Concept
In Psychology, Human Flourishing has different components: happiness,

life satisfaction, mental and virtue, close social relationship, and financial and
material stability.
1. Flourishing is intrinsically worthwhile
I It contrasts with the Greek Philosopher’s point of view that

human flourishing is a means to an end goal, happiness. Flourishing is
naturally good and is worth striving for. Therefore, it is intrinsically
worthwhile.
2. The actualization of the human potential
When an individual uses his or her potentials and capabilities it is

called human flourishing. The level of flourishing for every individual will
cannot be compared because every individual has different potential and
encounter different opportunities.
Criteria for Human Flourishing
a. Life as a whole. In studying an individual’s flourishing, it is needed to

understand his or her nature as a whole person/life, which means it
is important to study not only some parts of an individuals life but its
totality as a human as a well.
47
b. Human flourishing is a dynamic state. Human flourishing is self-
motivated. It requires a developmental process/progress to portray
human potential. To become a flourishing human being, one must
continuously develop or endlessly growing.
c. Objective good. Everyone needs to be flourish. There are things that

are good and otherwise bad for everybody. Good things or objective
goods such as good social relationships, positive emotions and
purpose, and so on, if developed, will contribute to having a
flourishing life.
C. The Human Person Flourishing in Terms of Science and Technology
Now that you have an idea and a good perspective about human
flourishing. What do you think is the role of Science and Technology in Human
Flourishing?
Role of Science and Technology in Human Flourishing
Remember, Aristotle said that humans flourish by gaining new

knowledge. He called it “intellectual virtue.” He also distinguished
theoretical knowledge and practical knowledge. On the other hand, Science
is a systematic body of knowledge that seeks to explain life and the world.
SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY
-Comparable to theoretical -Comparable to practical
knowledge. knowledge
-Explains the nature or -Applies the theoretical
principles behind an object, knowledge in order to have
event or phenomenon. an output.
Elucidating the importance of science and technology to human

being, scientific and technological discoveries allow humanity to gain
intellectual virtues. For example, through science, the antibiotic nature of
Penicillium notatum was discovered. But through technology, the
penicillin medicine was developed and provided a cure to many diseases.
Alvin Tofler is an American writer and futurologist who focused

his writings on technology expansion and its impact on society (Zakaria,
2012). Advancement in Science and Technology provides a positive
impact on human life such as the following:
48
- made work easier, efficient or practical
- made people happy or entertained
- kept people healthy and safe
- helped to address social issues and concerns
- helped in the development of human talent and abilities
Having an advantage, science and technology can be exploited that

results to negative impact or serious disadvantages. As a result,
technological developments made possible industrialization which made
humans become machine-like workers. It also caused pollution that
causes diseases that causes life loss. Technologies such as nuclear
weapons also cause extermination.
To help you understand the lesson, read the article by Connolly

and Miller, “is Human Flourishing in the ICT World of the Future likely?
(Optional)
D. Technology as a Way of Revealing
For this topic try to read the essay by Martin Heidegger: The Question
Concerning Technology. (Optional)
http://monoskop.org/images/4/44/Heidegger_Martin_The_Question_Con
cerning_Technology_and_Other Essays.pdf
Martin Heidegger (1889-1976). It is one of the most original and

important philosophers in the 20th century. In his essay, he suggested how
humans establish a “free relationship” with technology. Heidegger focused on
orientation to technology, not on the form or function.
How do we generally think about technology?
For Heidegger, First, technology is a means to an end. It refers

to the instrumental definition of technology. And secondly, technology is
a human activity that refers to the anthropological definition. These two
definitions of Heidegger are correct; however, limiting the understanding
of human relationships with technology. Heidegger discussed the
concepts of causality to fully understand what is meant by “technology as
a means to an end.”
49
There are four causes of causality/connection.
1. Causa materialis. It refers to the material used to form an

object.
2. Causa formalis. It refers to the form or shape.
3. Causa finalis. It refers to an end.
4. Causa efficiens. It refers to which brings about the effect
“CAUSA,” Latin word means “that which brings about.”

Furthermore, Heidegger preferably uses the Greek word “aition,” which
means “that which is responsible for something else.” And that leads him
to use the terms hyle, eidos, telos, and logos as a replacement to the four
causes. Heidegger termed technology as a kind of poesis, a way of bringing
forth or revealing referred to as – “the realm of truth.” Technology came
from the Greek word “technikon” that is related to techne. Heidegger
made two points about techne. It refers to both manufacturing and to the
arts. It is usually part of poesis. Techne is a kind of knowing. It may refer
to “expertise” or “know-how.” In a sense, technology is not in the
instrumental production of good or manipulation of materials, but rather
in “revealing.” Heidegger differentiates older forms of technology and
modern form of technology. He said that modern technology has a
different kind of revealing, and it is challenging. Old windmills, for
instance, draw energy from the wind but do not extract and store energy,
unlike modern technology.
To understand more of modern technology as revealing

differently. Heidegger introduced the idea of “standing reserve.” He
explained that technology transforms the world into a standing reserve.
It is said that “nothing in the world is good in and of itself, but only good
for something. An airplane, for instance, has no good or value in and of
itself, but it is good for humanity as a mode of transportation. It can be
disposed of, leaving it with no value its disposal by humanity depends on
its goodness. Humans can become standing reserves of technology. Since
humans are responsible for technological advances, humans will never
completely become as standing reserves. In the same way, nature and
nature's mode of revealing will never completely become under human
control.
Despite humans having now the capacity to destroy nature, the

natural world reveals itself to humans on their terms. Example: Humans
cannot directly control the formation of coal deposits or accumulate
nitrogen in the soil. They can only control the way humans orient
themselves to their thinking and actions, with such resources. Humans
50
manage to think of technology as an instrument, a means of getting things
done.
References
Green, Joel (2011). Dictionary of Scripture and Ethics. Grand Rapids, Mich: Baker
Academic. P.768 ISBN 978-0-8010-3406-0.
King, N. (2014). What are intellectual virtues. The Table. Bible University. Center
for Christian thought.
Mental health Foundation of New Zealand, Flourishing, Positive Mental Health

and Wellbeing: How can they be increase
Zakaria W.F.A.W. (2012). Alvin Tofler: Knowledge and Change in Future Society.
International Journal of Islamic Thought. 1: 54-61.
Zey, M.A (2001). Rational Choice and Organization Theory. International

Encyclopedia of the Social and Behavioral Sciences. DOI.10.1016/BO-08-
043076-7/04212-1.
http://frontleraners.com/blended/2020/june/23.
http://www.theguardian.com/global-development-professionals-
network/2015/sep/23/developing-poor-countries-de-develop-rich-
countries-sdgs.
http://monoskop.org/images/4/44/Heidegger_Martin_The_Question_Concerni
ng_Technology_and_Other Essays.pdf
http://www.researchgate.net.PDF web results is human flourishing in the ict

world of the future likely?-ResearGate.
www.keepinspiring.me/quotes-about-happiness/
51
Assessing Learning
Activity 11
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Identify the terms or names being defined or identified by the given
statements. Write your answer on the space provided before each number. ANY
form of ERASURE/ALTERATION will be considered wrong.
___________________________1. He defined human as a rational animal because they can

think and use reason consistently.
___________________________2. Is a state where people experience positive emotions
and positive social functioning.
___________________________3. A trait or quality that is deemed to be morally good.
___________________________4.
According to Plato human beings can develop virtue by
___________________________5.
means of?
___________________________6.
___________________________7. When an individual possesses intellectual virtue and
virtues of character, then, he or she will attain
___________________.
___________________________8.
___________________________9. Give three (3) words that is associated with Happiness.
__________________________10.
52
Activity 12
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Read the article by Jason Hickel and answer the questions.
“Forget’ developing’ poor countries’, it’s time to’ develop’ rich countries’”
By: Jason Hickel
This week, heads of state are gathering in New York to sign the UN’s new
sustainable development goals (SDGs). The main objective is to eradicate poverty
by 2030. Beyoncé, One Direction and Malala are on board. It’s set to be a
monumental international celebration.
Given all the fanfare, one might think the SDGs are about to offer a fresh plan for
how to save the world, but beneath all the hype, it’s business as usual. The main
strategy for eradicating poverty is the same: growth. Growth has been the main
object of development for the past 70 years, despite the fact that it’s not working.
Since 1980, the global economy has grown by 380%, but the number of people
living in poverty on less than $5 (£3.20) a day has increased by more than 1.1
billion. That’s 17 times the population of Britain. So much for the trickle-down
effect.
Orthodox economists insist that all we need is yet more growth. More progressive
types tell us that we need to shift some of the yields of growth from the richer
segments of the population to the poorer ones, evening things out a bit. Neither
approach is adequate. Why? Because even at current levels of average global
consumption, we’re overshooting our planet’s bio-capacity by more than 50%
each year.
In other words, growth isn’t an option anymore – we’ve already grown too much.
Scientists are now telling us that we’re blowing past planetary boundaries at
breakneck speed. And the hard truth is that this global crisis is due almost entirely
to overconsumption in rich countries.
Instead of pushing poor countries to 'catch up' with rich ones, we should be
getting rich countries to 'catch down'
Right now, our planet only has enough resources for each of us to consume 1.8
“global hectares” annually – a standardised unit that measures resource use and
waste. This figure is roughly what the average person in Ghana or Guatemala
consumes. By contrast, people in the US and Canada consume about 8 hectares
per person, while Europeans consume 4.7 hectares – many times their fair share.
53
What does this mean for our theory of development? Economist Peter Edward
argues that instead of pushing poorer countries to “catch up” with rich ones, we
should be thinking of ways to get rich countries to “catch down” to more
appropriate levels of development. We should look at societies where people live
long and happy lives at relatively low levels of income and consumption not as
basket cases that need to be developed towards western models, but as exemplars
of efficient living.
How much do we really need to live long and happy lives? In the US, life
expectancy is 79 years and GDP per capita is $53,000. But many countries have
achieved similar life expectancy with a mere fraction of this income. Cuba has a
comparable life expectancy to the US and one of the highest literacy rates in the
world with GDP per capita of only $6,000 and consumption of only 1.9 hectares –
right at the threshold of ecological sustainability. Similar claims can be made of
Peru, Ecuador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Tunisia.
Yes, some of the excess income and consumption we see in the rich world yields
improvements in quality of life that are not captured by life expectancy, or even
literacy rates. But even if we look at measures of overall happiness and wellbeing
in addition to life expectancy, a number of low- and middle-income countries rank
highly. Costa Rica manages to sustain one of the highest happiness indicators and
life expectancies in the world with a per capita income one-fourth that of the US.
In light of this, perhaps we should regard such countries not as underdeveloped,

but rather as appropriately developed. And maybe we need to start calling on rich
countries to justify their excesses.
70% of people in middle- and high-income countries believe overconsumption is

putting our planet and society at risk.
The idea of “de-developing” rich countries might prove to be a strong rallying cry
in the global south, but it will be tricky to sell to westerners. Tricky, but not
impossible. According to recent consumer research, 70% of people in middle- and
high-income countries believe overconsumption is putting our planet and society
at risk. A similar majority also believe we should strive to buy and own less, and
that doing so would not compromise our happiness. People sense there is
something wrong with the dominant model of economic progress and they are
hungry for an alternative narrative.
The problem is that the pundits promoting this kind of transition are using the
wrong language. They use terms such as de-growth, zero growth or – worst of all
– de-development, which are technically accurate but off-putting for anyone
who’s not already on board. Such terms are repulsive because they run against
the deepest frames we use to think about human progress, and, indeed, the
54
purpose of life itself. It’s like asking people to stop moving positively thorough
life, to stop learning, improving, growing.
Negative formulations won’t get us anywhere. The idea of “steady-state”

economics is a step in the right direction and is growing in popularity, but it still
doesn’t get the framing right. We need to reorient ourselves toward a positive
future, a truer form of progress. One that is geared toward quality instead of
quantity. One that is more sophisticated than just accumulating ever increasing
amounts of stuff, which doesn’t make anyone happier anyway. What is certain is
that GDP as a measure is not going to get us there and we need to get rid of it.
Perhaps we might take a cue from Latin Americans, who are organizing
alternative visions around the indigenous concept of buen vivir, or good living.
The west has its own tradition of reflection on the good life and it’s time we revive
it. Robert and Edward Skidelsky take us down this road in his book How Much is
Enough? where they lay out the possibility of interventions such as banning
advertising, a shorter working week, and a basic income, all of which would
improve our lives while reducing consumption.
Either we slow down voluntarily, or climate change will do it for us. We can’t go
on ignoring the laws of nature. But rethinking our theory of progress is not only
an ecological imperative but also a development one. If we do not act soon, all our
hard-won gains against poverty will evaporate, as food systems collapse and mass
famine re-emerge to an extent not seen since the 19th century.
This is not about giving anything up. And it’s certainly not about living a life of
voluntary misery or imposing harsh limits on human potential. On the contrary,
it’s about reaching a higher level of understanding and consciousness about what
we’re doing here and why.
Questions:
1. The article criticized the use of growth as the main strategy for the
eradication of poverty. Why is that so?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. Based from the article, why do we need to de-develop rich countries? Do

you agree?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
55
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. What is the connection of the article to human flourishing and the

progress of science and technology?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
56
Activity 13
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Read the following question and answer it precisely. (This could
show how will you reflect the role of science and technology in human
flourishing). Reflection Paper
What part of your life for the past years was the most
fulfilling/worthwhile? What made you flourish on those past years? and what is
the role of science and technology that affect that experience?
57
UNIT V. THE GOOD LIFE
Angel Joyce C. Fajardo
Overview
In this unit, you will learn about what different schools of thought and
individuals consider as the “good life” and its accompanying limitations and
responsibilities. These will help you identify the ways of how you can enjoy a good
life through science and technology within the bounds of society’s moral
principles and ethical standards.
1. define what is the “good life”; and
2. examine shared concerns that make up the good life to come up with
innovative, creative solutions to contemporary issues guided by
ethical standards
58
Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: Everyone has a different definition of what having a “Good Life” looks
like. Have you considered what a good life is like? To help you answer the
following questions on the space provided.
1. What does living a “Good Life” mean to you? (When can you say that a
person is actually living a good life?)
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. Do you believe that you are living a good life right now? Why or why not?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. What role do you think science and technology plays in helping people
achieve what they think is a good life?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
59
Lesson Proper
The Good Life
As you may have realized in the previous activity, the answer to the
question, “What is a Good Life?” varies among individuals. It can also vary among
people from different places, cultures, and schools of philosophy! The time or
period during which a person lives will also affect how he or she defines a good
life. For example, do you think a person living in the 16th century England will
have the same idea of a good life as a person living in the Philippines during the
present day? Of course, not!
Let us begin by discussing the three main ideas that address the good life:
The Moral Life, The Fulfilled Life, and The Life of Pleasure.
The Moral Life is a concept of the good life introduced by Socrates and
Plato. Are you familiar with these two philosophers? To give you a bit of a
background, Socrates is a Greek philosopher who is also considered as the father
of western philosophy. Plato was his most famous student and apprentice
(Ancient History Encyclopedia, 2009).
Figure 3. Socrates Figure 4. Plato

Source:https://www.thefamouspeople.co Source:https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-
m/profiles/images/socrates-8.jpg prod.s3.amazonaws.com/images/plato-
1595333639.jpg?crop=0.5066882853668423xw:1xh;
center,top&resize=480:*
60
According to them, a person who has a good life is someone who
possesses and practices the most important virtues. These virtues are courage,
kindness, loyalty, and generosity. They believed being virtuous is superior overall
supposedly good things like pleasure, power, or wealth. The concept of the Moral
Life as a good life also believes that:
• Questioning, reflecting, and examining the nature of things is important in

order to have a good life.
• Servitude to others is essential.
• To have a good life, one must have full control of his or her desires and
passions with proper reason.
Figure 5. Aristotle
Source:http://www.liveyourmagic.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Aristotle_Color-879x1024.jpg
Aristotle, another famous philosopher that I’m sure you are familiar with,
claims that a good life is The Fulfilled Life. Aristotle is the student of Plato.
Aristotle views the good life more comprehensively and that it all boils down to
man’s desire to be happy. He believes that someone has a good life if he or she:
• is morally virtuous
• has a good health and long life
• leads a prosperous lifestyle
• has good friends
• respects other people
• has good luck or fortune, and
61
• is able to use his or her abilities, talents, and capacities.
According to this theory, we value things because they are a means to achieve
other things. For example, we value money because it allows us to buy our needs
and wants. We value leisure because it lets us rest and has time to pursue our
interests. However, happiness is something we value in itself and not because we
get something else when we have it. In other words, the value of happiness is
intrinsic rather than instrumental (Westacott, 2020).
Figure 6. Epicurus
Source:https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ANbSAK4PdZk/T0zUsupWnYI/AAAAAAAAPfA
/kAMRHumrgis/s1600/Epicurus.jpg
Last but not the least, another philosopher named Epicurus suggested the
concept of The Life of Pleasure. According to him, life is worth living because of
pleasures. Pleasure can be defined as a mental state that is enjoyable, positive,
and worth seeking. This view that pleasure leads to a good life or that pleasure is
what makes life worth living, is known as hedonism (Westacott, 2020) There are
many kinds of pleasures in this world, some of which are wealth, fame, food, and
sexual pleasures. Calling someone a hedonist often has a negative connotation
because it suggests that he or she is devoted to “lower” pleasures like food, drinks,
sex, and other sensual indulgences.
Although Epicurus thinks these can give a person a good life, he also
believes that a person should not lose himself or herself to pleasures because:
1. This will reduce one’s pleasure in the long run
2. Pleasure from things like friendship and education are more

important.
62
3. Everyone should live a virtuous life.
There are Three Aspects of Good Life, namely self-mastery, servitude

to society, and contemplation, and learning. The good life is said to be an
integration of these aspects, disregarding the hedonistic idea mentioned earlier.
Ethics and Ethical Standards
Now that you have a background on “What is a Good Life”, the next
question is : “How should I live?”.
The answer to this question is a matter of Ethics. Ethics is the system of

moral principles, meaning a standard for choosing between right and wrong. It is
mainly concerned with what is good for an individual, or yourself, and the society
(BBC, 2014). It is the key in solving the following dilemmas:
a. How to live a good life
b. Knowing your rights and responsibilities
c. The language of right and wrong
d. Identifying what is good and what is bad
Since humans are set apart from other creatures because of the ability to
reason out and the capacity to observe rational thinking, this idea of right and
wrong and living an ethical life is unique. Ethics provides a foundation for
answering complex questions and allowing humans to behave and act according
to moral principles.
For example, all of us encounter ethical dilemmas in our everyday lives.

These are situations in which a difficult choice or decision must be made between
two or more alternatives, especially equally undesirable ones. It is important that
whatever we do or say is based on moral principles. Here are some ethical
dilemmas that you can think about:
1. Will you tell your parents or guardians about getting low or failing
grades in some of your subjects?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
63
2. Do you think it is okay to eat in fancy restaurants when some people
have nothing to eat?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
3. If you find out that your friend’s partner is cheating, will you tell your
friend about it even though you know it will hurt him/her?
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
After trying to answer and think about these ethical dilemmas, consider
what made you choose your final decisions. Is it for the good of yourself and your
loved ones, or is it based on the good and bad standards set by the society around
you? You are more likely to realize that it is often a combination of both.
The Role of Ethics in Innovation
Question: Do you think Ethics is important in innovation? Why or why

not?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
Before we discuss the role of ethics in innovation, let us first understand

what innovation is (Callegaro, 2017).
1. Divergence
The goal of innovation is to change the status quo of the ways we

have been used to it. It aims to create and develop new concepts, ideas,
and methods, therefore diverging from common. Through this,
different problems and issues can be solved using new and maybe even
better approaches and solutions.
64
2. Curiosity
Aristotle once said that our curiosity allows us to search for our
intellectual virtues. Curiosity urges us to examine things closely, probe,
explore ideas, and ultimately gain new knowledge. In other words,
innovation begins with curiosity.
Intellectual virtues are excellent character strengths or personal traits

considered to be morally good for thinking and learning. These are
often associated with knowledge and cognitive ability (King, 2014).
Good thinking and learning also require traits like being intellectually
honest, humble, careful, and attentive. These are all intellectual virtues.
3. Multi-disciplinary
To come up with any innovative solution, you should be able to

look at a problem from multiple perspectives, or a multi-disciplinary
approach must be applied. This provides us with a deeper
understanding of the problem and a more holistic idea about potential
solutions. This can be made possible through the collaboration of
experts and people with diverse skills and backgrounds.
4. Resilience
Innovation is not a one-time task and is often a product of many

trial and error experiments. Innovators must be resilient, persistent,
and determined to keep testing ideas and continue the process despite
many failed attempts and mistakes.
5. Effect to people
Innovators must also think about the effect or impact of their

innovation to people. Of course, the goal is to benefit all end-users since
the people or the end-users are the ultimate judges if the innovation is
relevant, helpful, and useful to them.
6. Shared responsibility
However, we must also remember that any innovation's success

is a shared responsibility between the innovator and the community.
The innovator’s intention should be for the common good and benefit
of the community. Likewise, the community should make sure to use
the innovation responsibly.
65
What is the distinction between technology and innovation?
Innovation is a human-centered perspective and process. It is the

formulation of new concepts, ideas, and methods to provide solutions to
problems.
Technology, on the other hand, can be a product of innovation. It

is the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes.
Therefore, technology is an essential part of innovative development
(Callegaro, A. 2017).
Economic gain and technological advancement should not be the

sole consideration of innovation. It should also be ethical. Innovation can
affect people in many different ways and impact many aspects of our lives,
such as our health, communication, education, politics, and justice system.
Thus, innovation should be accomplished within the bounds of an ethical
framework.
Innovations are considered ethical innovations if they possess

the following characteristics (Brown & Wyatt, 2010):
• Humanistic
Innovations should be human-centered. Meaning, it should be

helpful, useful, and relevant to the people for which it is intended.
• Participatory
The process of planning, designing, and creating innovations

should be done with the people and not just for the people.
• Sustainable
Innovations are only ever important and necessary if they

could be sustained for a long period of time considering political,
social, economical, and environmental aspects.
So, how can we relate the Good Life, Ethics, and Innovation to each
other?
To further understand the lesson, please read this UNEP report

with the title, “Towards a Green Economy: Pathways to Sustainable
Development and Poverty Eradication”
66
https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/documents/126G
ER_synthesis_en.pdf
After reading the Online Article, discuss your answer to the following
questions:
• How can we relate the green economy to sustainable

development?
• What are the main principles of the green economy?
• In what ways can a green economy contribute to achieving a good

life for people and the society?
Conclusion/ Summary
Living a good life is a part of human flourishing. Without focusing on self-

pleasure (the hedonistic approach), the good life is a combination of self-mastery,
servitude to the society, and contemplation and learning.
Ethics helps us answer the question, “How should I live?”. It is a system of

moral principles for considering what is good for oneself and society and other
people.
Innovation is a human-centered perspective and process. It is the

formulation of new concepts, ideas, and methods to provide solutions to
humanity’s problems. It also plays a role in achieving a Good Life. However, to
attain a good life though innovation, our decisions must be based on ethical
standards and moral principles.
References
Ancient History Encyclopedia (2009). Socrates. Retrieved from

https://www.ancient.eu/socrates/#:~:text=Socrates%20(469%2F470
%2D399,356%2D323%20BCE) on July 20, 2020
BBC (2014). Ethics - Introduction to ethics: Ethics: A general introduction.

Retrieved from
http://www.bbc.co.uk/ethics/introduction/intro_1.shtml on July 21,
2020.
67
Brown, T. & Wyatt, J (2010) DesignThinking for Social Innovation. Stanford Social
Innovation Review
Callegaro, A. (2017) Why Innovation and Technology Aren’t the same. -UNHCR
Innovation.
King, N. (2014) What are intellectual virtues. The Table Bible University. Center
for Christian thought
Westacott, E. (2020). What does it mean to live the good life? Retrieved from
https://www.thoughtco.com/what-is-the-good-life-4038226 on July 20,
2020
68
Assessing Learning
Activity 14
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: To help understand the lesson, watch this documentary entitled, “That
Sugar Film” (2015). Write a reaction paper about the documentary film on the
next page of this module. You can use an extra sheet if you need to. You can submit
your reaction paper in a handwritten or printed format. If you will opt to submit
a printed paper, use Font: Cambria, Font Size: 12, Line Spacing: 1.5 and Paper size:
8.5 x 11” (short bond paper/ letter size).
Refer to the following guide questions:
1. What do you think is the purpose of the film?
2. Did you find the information offered up in the film to be shocking,

or were you aware of the role sugar plays in your life? Discuss.
3. Do you think you can survive a 30-day sugar-free diet? Why or

why not?
4. How can you relate this film and sugar consumption to the
concepts of the Good life that we have discussed?
Grading Rubrics:
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UNIT VI. WHEN TECHNOLOGY AND HUMANITY CROSS
Alpha B. Gumayagay
Overview
Humans started to develop technology as a means to improve their living.

In order to make life easier, scientific knowledge must be applied to different
processes. However, despite the good intentions of technological advancement
and development through scientific knowledge, there are still disadvantages
caused by these technologies, which raised societal concerns. Ethical dilemmas
regarding the introduction of these technologies changed the social behavior and
preferences of humans. Unit VI emphasizes how the rapid acceleration in science
and technology influenced some ethical standards of society. Advantages and
disadvantages of the newly acquired technologies are presented, including how
these advancements brought ethical dilemmas to the community. Inherent
human rights are also presented in this unit.
1. know and assess human rights in order to know the underlying rights
concerning some tecnological ethical dilemmas;
2. discuss the implications of the interaction between science and

technology and human social behaviour; and
3. relate human rights and the emerging technological dilemmas.
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Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: Encircle the words/terms about communication technology. (20 pts.)
R S T V E A R A D I O Y T P
T E I E M A I L S J K L G A
E P L M N B V C X Z A N S I
L Q O K I N S E C T I B S N
E W S S E E B A T G T U E T
V E S L T A K A G O Y G A I
I R D Q A A S O L I K G S N
S T F S L X L A M W B Y C G
I Y G D L B E D S S I S A O
O U H C O W O I T Y A K P U
N U E R O H P A M E S M I T
O I C I O P Q S Z C V B N D
P I J L M O R S E C V D E T
M A T E L E P H O N E D E F
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Lesson Proper
Technology and Its Importance to Human Society
Technology, which is the application of scientific knowledge on

techniques and processes, has practical impact by sustaining different sectors of
the community especially in agriculture, health, education, and transportation
sectors. The use of technology started when human civilization developed tools
as they learn complex human behavior associated with their survival.
Through many years of constant change, the present condition of the

society is very much different with the society many years ago. The present-day
generation have great desire for transformation, innovation, transmission, and
domination of information. Although there are many social consequences of
technological applications, many people nowadays became technologically
dependent because of the ease and comfort that these technologies gave. Because
of this, the influence of science and technology in human daily living is growing.
There is also an intense competition in the marketing of these new technologies
in the society. However, the impact of technological inventions to the society must
always be considered.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Modern Technology
Advantages
Based on Ramey (2013) online articles and SKILLs learning

schools (2016), today’s generation has recognized the advantages of
modern technology to society. Communication was improved through
communication tools that were invented to make the transmission of
information easier and faster. Dissemination of information can be made
easily with the help of social media. Housing, lifestyle, and entertainment
was also improved. Materials used to build modern houses, and other
facilities are far more sophisticated today Equipment used for home
activities, and entertainment purposes are automated and more versatile.
A smart TV can now perform both television and computer functions.
Education today is not only limited to a classroom setting. Distant learning
through online courses and other web-based seminars became effective
platforms of learning. The modern-day transport system, like the use of
the railway, skyway, ships, and airport systems, can be attributed to
societal progress. Technological advancement has changed the medical
field's structure by introducing more sophisticated equipment for
diagnosis and treatment of diseases. Recent breakthroughs have allowed
for the discovery of new treatment procedures. New technologies provide
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different industries to increase productivity and efficiency by reducing
labor costs and meeting the demands of a growing society. Moreover,
technology opens an avenue for more creative and innovative
entrepreneurship through online businesses.
Disadvantages
Several negative effects of technological advancements

complicated human social well-being. A possible shift in economies may
occur, especially in areas where human labor is used as the main
workforce. The adoption of new product innovations by companies raised
some concerns over possible massive job displacement. Technology has
further developed destructive weapons such as machineries that caused
massive death among countries. Other examples of these weapons include
drones, submarine, missiles, and nuclear weapons. Physical, social
isolation due to the absence of interactive relationships increased
loneliness to many individuals. Most people focused their attention on
gadgets and social technology rather than building harmonious
relationships among family members through interaction. Increased
dependence on modern tools and technologies reduced human creativity
and intelligence, which may lower their competency. The above
disadvantages of modern technology lead to technological ethical
dilemmas.
Human Rights
According to the United Nations, human rights are “rights inherent to all
human beings, whatever nationality, religion, ethnic group, race, sex, or any
position in the society.” Human rights are untransferable, which means they could
not be removed in a person unless declared or instructed by law. An example of
this is a condemned individual awaiting execution because the crime he
committed might lose some of his rights. Human rights are universal, as stated in
the Universal Declaration on Human Rights in 1948. Human rights are
inseparable and interconnected. When one right is improved, it will affect the
enhancement of others. Also, when one right is harmed, it hostiled the rights of
others.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights
The General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed the

Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948. Under the
universal declaration of human rights, the state shall strive to promote
and secure the universal and effective recognition of rights through
73
teaching and providing education. These adopted human rights include
the articles below:
Article 1 Right to Equality

Article 2 Freedom from Discrimination
Article 3 Right to Life, Liberty, Personal Security
Article 4 Freedom from Slavery
Article 5 Freedom from Torture and Degrading Treatment
Article 6 Right to Recognition as a Person before the Law
Article 7 Right to Equality before the Law
Article 8 Right to Remedy by Competent Tribunal
Article 9 Freedom from Arbitrary Arrest and Exile
Article 10 Right to Fair Public Hearing
Article 11 Right to be Considered Innocent until Proven Guilty
Article 12 Freedom from Interference with Privacy, Family, Home, and
Correspondence
Article 13 right to Free Movement in and out of the Country
Article 14 Right to Asylum in other Countries from Persecution
Article 15 Right to a Nationality and the Freedom to Change It
Article 16 Right to Marriage and Family
Article 17 Right to Own Property
Article 18 Freedom of Belief and Religion
Article 19 Freedom of Opinion and Information
Article 20 Right of Peaceful Assembly and Association
Article 21 Right to Participate in Government and in Free Elections
Article 22 Right to Social Security
Article 23 Right to Desirable Work and to Join Trade Unions
Article 24 Right to Rest and Leisure
Article 25 Right to Adequate Living Standard
Article 26 Right to Education
Article 27 Right to Participate in the Cultural Life of the Community
Article 28 Right to Social Order that Articulates this Document
Article 29 Community Duties Essential to Free and Full Development
Article 30 Freedom from State of Personal Interference in the above Rights
Aside from the rights enlisted in the Universal Declaration of

Human Rights, there are other human rights included in the Constitution
of each state, treatises, local laws, and policies.
Human rights should always be considered before a certain

technology is introduced to avoid technological ethical dilemmas. The
persons or corporations involved should verify what human rights will be
at risk by introducing their newly created technologies.
74
Ethics and Ethical Dilemma
Ethics is a system of moral principles or values that govern a person's

behavior concerning what is good for oneself and the society that he belongs to.
It is a measure of motivation to which people are motivated to act morally.
People encounter many different problems in everyday living. Most of

these problems can be answered easily and in an uncomplicated manner.
However, an ethical dilemma may occur in many situations wherein there can be
two possible solutions. Still, both of them were unpleasant or not acceptable from
an ethical perspective. This can sometimes be called an ethical paradox or moral
dilemma. In the case of an ethical dilemma, a deeper and better understanding of
the underlying issue is required and can lead to multiple solutions.
How do people approach ethical dilemmas?
People approach ethical dilemmas in different ways. The

following are some steps from which people approach ethical dilemmas.
1. Acknowledge or accept the ethical issue.
✓ Is the situation gave rise to conflicts?
✓ Is it an ethical conflict?
2. These decisions can be made through the help of these

questions:
✓ What are truths/facts behind the issue that can be used for
the collection of reliable information?
✓ What are the key values and ethical principles involved?
✓ What are the possible options or alternative choices?
3. Subject the dilemma to critical evaluation. Investigation of the

situation may answer the following questions:
✓ Which option can protect the rights of the individuals?
✓ Which option can lead to the best outcomes?
✓ Which option can best promote the common good?
75
5. Make a decision and evaluate the consequences.
✓ Which option or alternative is the best?
✓ Ask “Was my action the best action?”
Emerging Technological Ethical Dilemmas
Advances in technology are rapidly changing in many disciplines, such as

agriculture, engineering, education, medicine, etc. Farmers can improve crop
yield through newly developed advanced pieces of machinery for planting and
harvesting, new engineering concepts can unlock solutions on problems relating
to genetics and chemical synthesis, teachers can modify and spread education
through distance-education and virtual classroom, and doctors can reduce
medical mistakes by increasing potential to improve health through precision
medicine. However, these advancements in technology also have the potential to
transform individuals' lives negatively. Because of this, technological ethical
dilemmas arise.
Technological ethical dilemmas occur when new and emerging

technologies raise ethical, social, and privacy issues. These dilemmas arose from
the conception, production, use, and effect of technology. Few of these
technologies can be labeled as dangerous that may pose a threat to human lives.
While other technologies have high impact on society that they can change
societal growth positively or negatively.
Four factors are placed at risk when ethical dilemmas occur due to certain
technologies. These four factors include the environment, individual health,
individual rights, and the affected society. To have better deal with technological
ethical dilemmas, these four factors should always be considered.
The need to explore conceptual, ethical and policy issues of the society
where modern technological advancement interacts promotes the advancement
of science and technology for the common good. It should be clear that recent
technologies and innovations should not hinder an individual from enjoying any
of the rights mentioned in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
76
In 2015 and 2016, the Reilly Center for Science Technology and Values at
the University of Notre Dame released some of what it considers emerging
policies related to science and technology.
1. Real-time Satellite Surveillance Imagery
Satellite generated images are helpful in planning and solving

humanitarian problems, crimes, and disaster risk reduction. But if
theses data would reach the hands of potential leftists, this might
clearly violate the privacy of human life.
2. Colonizing Mars: An Astronaut Bioethics
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and a

private company, Mars One, worked together for a space mission to
colonize the planet Mars. In 2018, Mars One planned to launch a
robotic mission to Mars, and by 2025, four humans will be sent on a
one-way mission to establish the first community outside the earth.
Despite the possibility of a breakthrough in the history of science and
technology, there is a need for risk assessment.
3. Wearable Technology
Companies around the globe have developed several wearable

technologies to suit human behavior and activities. These
technologies have beneficial functions in education and health, but
privacy problems could be a problem.
4. State Sponsored Hacktivism and “soft war”
Soft war is an unarmed force using cyberwar and hacktivism to

transform the cultural values and identities of society. It can influence
the social aspect of a given political system and invade cultural and
psychological operations. The use of cyberattacks to any government
agency could be a problem.
77
5. Enhanced Pathogens
Researches about the gain of function of known diseases such as

influenza, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), and Middle
East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) have been suspended in the
United States because of biosafety concerns. Gains of function
researches have beneficial impacts such as understanding the virus
and the mode of treatment for these viruses. However, this kind of
research could also increase mammalian transmission. This could be
an avenue of exposing the virus into the general population that could
have devastating effects, just like the present pandemic, COVID-19.
6. Non-lethal weapons
Non-lethal weapons are not designed to kill but remained to be an

ethical dilemma. Some examples are laser missiles, blinding weapons,
pain rays, sonic weapons, and gasses and sprays. Indiscriminate use
of such could be used as a means of torture.
7. Robot Swarms
Some researchers of Harvard University focused on the

development of “kilobots”, a group of robots capable of
communicating with each other and perform simple tasks that do not
require any human intervention. These groups of robots can be used
in environmental clean-ups or in responding to disasters. There is a
risk of this technology to malfunction and cause harm.
8. Artificial life forms
This technology is through synthetic biology, which is focused on

custom-building of life forms by introducing synthetic DNA to an
existing organism. This raises concerns on some ethics and policy
issues. Safety issues are also of great concern since biological weapons
using these organisms may arise.
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9. Resilient social-ecological systems
The need to build resilience in the social and ecological systems of

each nation is necessary, especially in facing societal problems
brought about by poverty, economic globalization, and natural
phenomena such as climate change and natural disasters.
10. Brain-to-brain interfaces
This technology is about direct communication from one brain to

another without the use of speech but using electroencephalography
(EEG), a machine that detects brain activity. Ethical issues that arise
are the kind of neurosecurity that can be used to prevent accidental
sharing or removal of information from an individual brain,
intellectual property rights, and the liability between the sender and
receiver if one commits a mistake.
References
Carbonell J.G., Michalski R.S., Mitchell T.M. (1983) An Overview of Machine

Learning. In: Michalski R.S.,
Kleinig, J., & Evans, N. G. (2012). Human Flourishing, Human Dignity, and Human
Rights. Law and Philosophy. 32(50. 539-564. Doi:10.1007/s10982-012-
9153-2
Marshall, K. P. (1999) Has Technology Introduced New Ethical Problems?. Journal

of Business Ecthics, 19(1). 81-90. Doi:10.1023/aa:1006154023743
OHCHR. (n.d.). what are human rights? Retrieved January 29, 2019, from
https://www.ohchr.org/en/issues/pages/whatarehumanrights.aspx
Ramey, K. (2013) What is technology – Meaning of technology and its use. Use of
Technology techucation
Rasmussen, d.B. (1989). Individual Rights and Human Flourishing. Publioc Affairs
Quarterly. 3 (1), 89-103. Retrieved from http://www.
Jstor.org/stable/40435703
79
Stansberry, K., Anderson, J., & Rainie, L. (2018). Experts Optimistic About the Next
50 Years of Digital Life.
University of Notre Dame. (2012. December 17). Emerging Ethical Dilemmas in

science and technology. ScienceDaily. Retrieved February 19, 2019 from
www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/121217162440.htm
Wright, D., Finn, R., Gellert, R., Gutwirth, S., Schutz, P., Friedwald, M., Venier, S.,
&Mordini, E. (2014). Etical Dilemma scenarios and emerging
technologies. Technological Forecasting ansd Soccial Change, 86, 325-
336. Doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2013.12.008.
Younkins, Dr. E. (2003) Aristotle, Human Flourishing, and the Limited State. Le
Que becois Libre Nov. 133 (2003): 1-9. Retrieved from Le quebecois Libe
database 13 Dec. 2010.
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Assessing Learning
Activity 15
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Answer the following questions on technological ethical dilemmas and

present your answers in the class.
Questions:
1. What are the human rights proclaimed in the Universal Declaration of

Human Rights that need to be considered on ethical dilemmas concerning
Colonizing Mars: An Astronaut Bioethics, Robot Swarms, Non-lethal
weapons, Enhanced Pathogens, and Artificial life forms.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. What is your view or stand on these ethical dilemmas?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
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Activity 16
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Read the article entitled ‘Is google making us stupid?’. Answer the
following questions and present your answers in the class. The article is available
on this link: https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2008/07/is-
google-making-us-stupid/306868/
Questions:
1. Why did the author suggest that Google is making us stupid?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. What are the ethical dilemmas discussed in the article?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. What is your view or stand on those ethical dilemmas?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
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Activity 17
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Discuss your stand about the following technological dilemmas.

(Minimum of 100 words). Use extra sheets of paper.
1. We are now in the midst of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, wherein new
technologies and global integration accelerate more rapidly. The
technology that is now under development is artificial intelligence or
machine learning. Artificial techniques became part of our everyday lives
today because of computers, electronic gadgets, and other connected
devices that we use. Techniques developed are able to the cognitive
simulation that are capable of investigating and simulating the human
learning processes or can mimic how people gain understanding.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. The right of people to privacy is one concern in today’s digital generation.

It is believed that the digital era will surely improve people's lives over
the next decades in favor of the more privileged people. Thus, this will
lead to the rise of inequality and economic division. Do you believe in this
privacy issue? Defend your answer.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
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UNIT VII. WHY DOES THE FUTURE NOT NEED US?
Olympia O. Riogelon
Overview
In the previous units, you have learned the significance of science and
technology about society. You also see the worth of science and technology as
great contributors to our nation-building. Thus, it also enlightens up your mind
on the different scientific ideas that defined society. Furthermore, you examined
the evolution of science and technology over time as you have learned the
historical antecedents of science and technology. Those lessons strengthen your
awareness of how science and technology will help you attain a good life and
flourish as an individual that part of the growing society.
Now in this unit, the focus of the study is for you to understand the role
of technology in the society thus will give you enlightenment and help you to
assess the functions of science and technology within the community. Moreover,
it also allows you to examine technology's potential impact on your life.
1. discuss the stages of technological history on earth;
2. analyze how technology leads to possible human displacement due to

technological advancement; and
3. cite examples of the potential impact of technologies on humans.
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Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: Answer briefly the following questions: (5 points each).
1. What makes you happy? Elaborate your answer.

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. Do you really need technology in your life? Why?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. What will happened to you if technology does not exist?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
4. Does technology leads you to a better life? Explain.

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
85
Lesson Proper
Why Does the Future Not Need Us?
According to Schultz (2016) cited in the Science, Technology, and Society

book for tertiary level, technology had different stages [Ang, R., Cruz, J., et al.
(2018)] and these are:
a. Proto-technology – focuses on the time when early tools were developed

before civilization. [Ang, R., Cruz, J., et al. (2018)]
b. Classical technology- the rise of agricultural technologies and the

establishment of communities and cities that enabled the survival of civilization.
[Ang, R., Cruz, J., et al. (2018)]
c. Modern technology – this is fueled by science concepts and principles which

date back about 500 years ago. [Ang, R., Cruz, J., et al. (2018)]
d. Postmodern technology. – replaces naturally occurring products with

technologically developed ones. Some of the major postmodern technologies
include gasoline-powered automobile including jet engines, other petroleum and
its derivatives like synthetic fertilizer, Plastics, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), PCBs
(polychlorobiphenyl), chlorofluorocarbons, synthetic detergents, nylon,
insecticides (organochlorine compounds; DDT) and plastics (polystyrene and
polyesters) and the like [Ang, R., Cruz, J., et al. (2018)].
Meanwhile, technological advancement affects individuals, animals, and

the entire world. Those can give beneficial and non-beneficial effects to
humankind. Some give comfort to living: lower sufferings and improve the life of
the people, and yet some might cause harm like ozone layer depletion, climate
change, nuclear war, war problems, and habitant destruction lead to possible
human displacement worst to human extinction.
The following are some modern technological advancements and the

impact of possible threats to extinction: [Ang, R., Cruz, J., et al. (2018)]
1. Ozone layer depletion through chlorofluorocarbons
2. Usage of fossil fuel leading to global warming and climate change.
3. Nuclear war and nuclear contamination.
4. Plastics.
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5. Petroleum-based fertilizer
6. Habitat destruction.
Technology-driven: Extinction and Displacement - Like any other species

of this planet, human beings will tend to become extinct either gradually or
suddenly.
Extinction – is the total disappearance of a species.
Two possible scenarios for the gradual extinction of human:
1. The usual course of life as individual age and replaced by other species
more adapted to the changing world.
2. The disappearance of the ecological niche due to the abrupt changes

man has inflicted in the ecosystem; the entire population reaches zero
reproductive rate.
References
Ang, R., Cruz J., et. al. 2018. Science, Technology and Society. Muntinlupa City:
Panday-Lahi Publishing House, Inc.
Alata, E.J., Pawilen, G., et.al. 2018. Science, Technology and Society. First Edition.
Manila: Rex Book Store, Inc.
https://frontlerners.com/blended/ 4/20/2020
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Assessing Learning
Activity 18
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: On the table, give positive and negative effects of technology in the
following aspects:
Positive Effect Negative Effect

Aspect of of
Technology Technology
FAMILY RELATION
EDUCATION
TRANSPORTATION
COMMUNICATION
WORK
HEALTH
88
Activity 19
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Using the space provided, develop a poster that will show “Why Does
the Future Not Need Us? Explain your poster.
You will be graded base on the following criteria:
Relevance to the theme 40%

Originality 20%
Neatness/clarity of your work 20%
Creativity 20%
Total 100%
89
UNIT VIII. THE INFORMATION AGE
Julius Jay N. Rodriguez
Overview
This module introduces you to Information Age. The brief description and
history of the information age start the first part of this module. It also provides
information about modern technologies' role in addressing the needs of humans
and society. You will even understand how technology, as a recent revolution in
the world's communication system, influences humans' lives.
Modern technologies have successfully turned the world into a global

village. Although it is costly to develop in an organization fully, its usefulness is
valuable to all sectors of a human.
1. link learned concepts to the development of the information age and

its impact on society; and
2. explain the importance of the social media sites and other

applications to modern day living.
90
Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: Innovations and emerging technology are transforming the world and
the everyday lives of each and every one of us. Those are inevitable in our
everyday lives. This is because life without technology is useless in today's
complex world. But can you imagine your life without technology? How can you
spend a day without technology? Write your insight/s about these two questions.
Explain what society would lose if there is no technology?
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
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Lesson Proper
Introduction to Information Age
Technology has had a tremendous influence in the twentieth century as it

has made life simpler for people. The evolution of technology has shaped society
in both positive and negative ways. Humans all over the world are using and
learning from new technology. Technology is relevant to ease access to many of
the resources people need in education, medicine, communication, transport, etc.
Modern technology is it is about ensuring face-to-face communication. It

is all about efficiency and speed. Communication or exchanging information is
essential to humans and society due to a wide array of reasons. However, it can
be limited by: (1) Distance, (2) Time, and (3) Location. The attempts of humans
to address these limitations of communication led to the development of different
new technologies. Technologies were affected by the social, political, and
economic role of information. It leads to the so-called Information or Digital
Revolutions.
The Information Age, also called Computer Age, Digital Age, or New Media
Age, is a pre-historic period in the 21st Century. It is characterized by the rapid
shift from the traditional industry brought about by the Industrial Revolution
through industrialization to the information technology-based economy. The
recurrence of the Information Age linked to the Digital or Information Revolution
(Bueno, 2019).
History of the Information Age
The start of the information revolution was made possible by the

invention of language writing and printing. These inventions greatly improved
how humans exchange information and communicate. From these, early and
primitive forms of information and communication technology were developed.
The following were ways of exchanging information in the past: drum rolls, fire
signals, hand signals, use of pigeons, use of flags, and papyrus. Many of these
exchanging information in the past are still in use today. However, they remain to
have limitations. The importance of the information revolution is to address the
barriers of communications.
First Information Revolution
The First Information Revolution began in the mid-nineteenth century

with the invention of the Telegraph, the telephone, and radio.
92
1. Telegraph
Samuel Morse (1791-1872) developed Telegraph in the 1830s

and 1840s; the Telegraph revolutionized long-distance
communication. It worked by transmitting electrical signals over the
wire between the stations. In addition to helping to invent the
Telegraph, Samuel Morse created a code (bearing his name) that
allocated a series of dots and dashes to each letter of the English
alphabet and allowed complex messages to get transmitted across
telegraph lines. (History.com Editors, 2019). The Telegraph played
an essential role during the American Civil War. The US government
used it to communicate reports of military information, command,
and intelligence to troops. Diplomatic offices in Europe have also
used this to describe with other countries. It facilitated more
accessible liaison and communication between countries.
2. Telephone
It was a time of 1876–1877 when Johann Philip Rels developed

the first telephonic device. However, alexander Graham Bell credited
for the invention of the telephone. The telephone is an instrument
designed for the simultaneous transmission and reception of the
human voice. The phone is simple to operate, inexpensive, and offers
its users an immediate and personal communication type that can
not be obtained from any other medium. As a result, it has become
the most widely used telecommunications device in the world
(David, 2020).
3. Radio
In 1895, while living in the attic of his parents, a young Italian

named Gugliemo Marconi discovered what he called "the wireless
telegraph" He used electromagnetic waves to relay Morse code. It
became known as the wireless instrument he used. Radio owes its
development to the first information revolution to two other
inventions: the Telegraph and the telephone. These three
technologies are closely related, and radio technology, in reality,
began as "wireless telegraphy" (Bellis, 2019).
According to Bellis (2019), in 1915, the speech was the first

broadcast from New York City to San Francisco and across the
Atlantic Ocean, via radio. Five years later, KDKA-Pittsburgh, from
Westinghouse, broadcast the Harding-Cox election returns and
started a regular radio program schedule.
93
Radio networks and stations eventually established in the US and
Europe. The military used radios during the World Wars. After the
wars, the radio played a crucial part in the development of the
broadcasting (news) and the music industries.
Second Information Revolution
The Second Information Revolution further improved communication

due to the invention of television, the first generation of computers, and satellites.
1. Television
Television is one of the 20th Century's most influential

technologies. It has become one of the essential ways in which people
perceive the broader world around them, as well as one of the best
ways in which people can escape the planet.
A German scientist created static moving pictures in the 1880s

using a filtered light that was viewed through a rotating disk, setting
the groundwork for modern television. During the 1920s, many
scientists started experimenting with using radio waves to transmit
still pictures.
The system gradually improved upon During the 30s and 40s. In
America, the first frequent broadcasts began in 1939. after the Second
World War that television began to take off as a standard home
appliance. Sales of Television in America skyrocketing since 1945. In
1954 the first color broadcast was achieved.
Television arrived years later in the rest of the world, and it wasn't
until the late 1960s that television became popular in houses
throughout the West. TV had become the dominant media power it is
today by the 1970s, with 24-hour programming, mass
advertisements, and syndicated shows.
Satellite television in the 1980s shrunk the globe, allowing live

feeds from other countries and time zones. The new millennium has
brought the rise of digital video, which is television's future.
2. Computers
The early computer development was due to military needs.

Between 1939 and 1942, Professor John Vincent Atanasoff and
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graduate student Clifford Berry designed the world's first digital-
electronic computer at Iowa State University. The Atanasoff-Berry
Computer reflected many computer advances, including a binary
arithmetic system, parallel processing, regenerative memory, and
memory and computing separation functions. 1839 when Allan
Turing developed The first fully functioning electronic digital
computer, which was named Colossus. During World War II,
computers used to decode nazi war codes (Stanford Encyclopedia of
Philosophy, 2006).
3. Electronic Numerical Integrator and Calculator (ENIAC)
In 1946 the first to patent a digital computing system, the ENIAC

machine, was Presper Eckert and John Mauchly. The problem with
ENIAC and other computers of the first generation was that they used
vacuum tubes that produced a lot of heat, causing it to overheat or
flame out.
4. Transistors
The three individuals credited with the transistor's invention

were William Shockley, John Bardeen, and Walter Brattain. This
invention helps to address the problem of overheating. ROHM (2019),
has stated that the transistor development was an enormous
advancement in the electronics sector. It marked the start of the
current epoch in the electronics sector. After the transistor's
invention, advances in technology became more common, with
computer technology being the most notable of these.
5. Integrated Circuits
The development of new computer technology is crucial because

it showed the convergence of government, military, and industry
cooperation in innovation making. The invention of integrated
circuits has contributed to the development of third-generation
computers.
6. Satellites
A satellite is an object that orbits or circles around a more

significant object in space. Natural such as the Earth's orbiting moon
and artificial such as the Earth's orbiting International Space Station
are the two types of satellites (Howell, 2017).
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The first artificial satellite was Sputnik, a Russian beach-ball-size
space probe that lifted off on October 04, 1957. It marks the beginning
of the so-called Space Age. The SCORE or Signal Communications by
Orbiting Relay Equipment in 1958, the military launched its first
satellite in the US.
Satellites, too, have changed the way we see the world around us.
The corporate world exploded into space when Syncom 3, the first
civilian telecommunications satellite with its live broadcasts of the
1964 Tokyo Olympics, created a sensation (Gottschalk, 2017).
Early Bird, also known as Intelsat I, the world's first

commercial communications satellite, was designed by Hughes
Aircraft Company's Space and Communications Division, and
later by Hughes Space and Communications Company, for the
Communications Satellite Corporation (COMSAT). On April 06,
1965, the satellite launched into synchronous orbit. (Gunter's
Space Page, 2017).
Third Information Revolution
The technologies of the first two Information Revolutions paved the way
for more techniques and innovations, which led to the Third Information
Revolution. The following are the leading technologies of the Third Information
Revolution:
1. Semiconductors
Semiconductors are essential technology which significantly

enhanced the ability to store, process, and advertising information.
The memory capacity increased substantially in 2017 from 10,000
bits of information in 1978 to 160 trillion bits because of the
semiconductors.
2. Microprocessors
A microprocessor is an integrated circuit (IC), integrating critical

functions in the central processing unit (CPU) of a computer. It is a
programmable silicon chip with multipurpose, clock-driven, register-
based, accepts binary data as input, and provides output after
processing as per the instructions stored in the memory (Ligo, 2018).
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3. Fourth Generation Computers
The Very Large Integrated Scale (VLSI) circuits were used in the
fourth Generation Computers from 1971 to 1980. VLSI circuits with
approximately 5000 transistors and other circuit elements and their
associated circuits on a single chip have made it possible to have
microcomputers of the fourth generation.
Fourth-generation computers became more powerful, compact,

reliable, and affordable. As a result, the Revolution of Personal
Computers ( PCs) arose. Time-sharing, real-time networks, and
distributed operating systems have been used in this Century
(Tutorials Point, 2020).
4. Fifth Generation Computers
The Fifth Generation Computers are the most advanced and

current computer generation, which started around 1981. These are
highly reliable and use the technology of ULSI or Ultra Large Scale
Integration. Such computer systems are at the frontiers of modern
scientific calculations. They are used to create the components of
Artificial Intelligence or AI, which will be able to think for themselves
(Toppr, 2019).
5. Fiber Optics
Fiber optics (known as optical fibers) that consist of incredibly

thin glass or plastic strands. One cable of the fiber optic can have as
few as two strands or as many as several hundred. Every strand is less
than a tenth as thick as a human hair and can hold something like
25,000 phone calls, making it easy for a whole fiber-optic cable to
carry several million calls (Woodford, 2018).
6. Cellular Technology
Transmitters and receivers are usually large, heavy and awkward

to carry or move. These problems led to the development of cellular
technology. Cellular technologies led to the development of a mobile
phone. It is made to ease communication among individuals.
According to Techopedia (2017), a cellular telephone is a

telecommunication device that uses radio waves over a networked
area (cells). It is served at a fixed location via a cell site or base station,
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enabling calls to be transmitted wirelessly across a wide range, to a
fixed landline or via the Internet.
7. Satellite Technologies
Satellite technologies also helped to create a global

connectivity network. They used mobile, television, and weather and
climate devices. Satellites have allowed the worldwide broadcast of
events, shows, international teleconferencing, international
telephone calls, and other types of global connectivity.
8. Internet
The Internet seems to have a significant impact on almost every

facet of our lives, building whole new worlds of cultures and allowing
us to access knowledge and ideas on a scale we've never dreamed of
before (kwach, 2018). According to Techopedia (2019), Email, web-
enabled audio/video conferencing services, online movies, and
gaming, data transfer / file-sharing, often through File Transfer
Protocol ( FTP), instant messaging, Internet forums, social
networking, online shopping, financial services, and digital
transmission are some of the following services that make the
Internet the most cost-effective means of communication in the
world. The main goal for today is to develop a fully integrated, high-
speed, and high capacity network.
9. Digital Transmission
Digital transmission developed to improve communication.

Digital transmission is the transmission of information in the form of
digital signals through a physical communication medium. Therefore,
analog signals must be digitized first before they are transmitted
(Rafsanjani, 2018).
Impact of the Information Age
The advancement of technology in everyday life and social organization

has contributed to the modernization of information and communication systems
due to social development's driving force (Bueno, 2019). he information age has
the following positive impacts: (1) It enabled more excellent connectivity of
people around the world.; (2) It made many aspects of day to day more
convenient.; (3) It created online communities.; (4) It made information more
accessible. The following are the negative impacts of the information age: (1)
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Much information is false and misleading.; (2) It allowed the conduct of crimes
and illegal activities. (3) It created a "Digital Divide." (4) It affected human
productivity and flourishing.
References
Bellis, M. (2019, May 11). ThoughtCo. Retrieved from The History of Radio
Technology: https://www.thoughtco.com/invention-of-radio-1992382
Bueno, D. C. (2019). Science, Technology and Society. Mandaluyong City: Books

Atbp. Publishing Corp.
David, B. (2020). Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved from

https://www.britannica.com/technology/telephone
Gottschalk, K. (2017, October 10). World Economic Forum. Retrieved from Here's
how satellites have changed the modern world:
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2017/10/heres-how-satellites-
have-changed-the-modern-world
Gunter's Space Page. (2017, November 12). Retrieved from

https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/intelsat-1.htm
Hints, H. (2011, February 08). Fallon Solutions. Retrieved from A Brief History Of
Television: https://www.fallonsolutions.com.au/Handy_Hints/a-brief-
history-of-television
History.com Editors. (2019, June 06). Retrieved from Morse Code & the Telegraph:
https://www.history.com/topics/inventions/telegraph
Howell, E. (2017, October 27). Space.com. Retrieved from What is a Satellite?:

https://www.space.com/24839-satellites.html
kwach, J. (2018, January 22). Tuko. Retrieved from Importance of Internet in our
life and education: https://www.tuko.co.ke/263579-importance-
internet-our-life.html
Ligo, G. (2018, April 05). ElectroSome. Retrieved from

https://electrosome.com/microprocessor/
Rafsanjani, K. (2018, February 06). CCM. Retrieved from Introduction to Digital

Transmission: https://ccm.net/contents/703-data-transmission-digital-
data-transmission
99
ROHM. (2019). Retrieved from History of Transistors:
https://www.rohm.com/electronics-basics/transistors/history-of-
transistors
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy. (2006, June 09). Retrieved from The Modern
History of Computing:
https://www.plato.stanford.edu/entries/computing-history
Techopedia. (2017, January 05). Retrieved from

https://www.techopedia.com/definition/6413/cellular-phone
Techopedia. (2019, August 30). Retrieved from Internet:

https://www.techopedia.com/definition/2419/internet
Toppr. (2019). Retrieved from https://www.toppr.com/guides/computer-

aptitude-and-knowledge/basics-of-computers/generations-of-
computers/
Tutorials Point. (2020). Retrieved from Learn Computer Fundamentals:

https://www.tutorialspoint.com/computer_fundamentals/computer_fo
urth_generation
Woodford, C. (2018, September 26). Explain that Stuff. Retrieved from

https://www.explainthatstuff.com/fiberoptics.html
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Assessing Learning
Activity 20
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
1. Identify ten (10) applications that could be useful in your daily life as a
student. Explain the importance and uses of those applications.
a. ______________________________________________________________________________
b. ______________________________________________________________________________
c. ______________________________________________________________________________
d. ______________________________________________________________________________
e. ______________________________________________________________________________
f. ______________________________________________________________________________
g. ______________________________________________________________________________
h. ______________________________________________________________________________
i. ______________________________________________________________________________
j. ______________________________________________________________________________
2. Discuss how the community teaching/learning Science can be enhanced

with use of information technologies.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. Identify two other technological advancements during the present time

and describe how each of them contributes to societal development.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
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Activity 21
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: To better appreciate the influence and importance of technology to our

daily lives, let us do an activity called “Timing Your Technology”. List all
technologies that you use every hour, and state your purpose of using this
technology. You should start from 6:00 AM until 7:00 PM. Use the table below to
take note how long or how frequent you use each technology. Make a reflection
about this activity.
PURPOSE OF USING THIS

TIME TECHNOLOGY YOU USED
TECHNOLOGY
6:00-7:00
7:00-8:00
8:00-9:00
9:00-10:00
11:00-12:00
12:00-1:00
1:00-2:00
2:00-3:00
3:00-4:00
4:00-5:00
5:00-6:00
6:00-7:00
Reflection:
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
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UNIT IX. BIODIVERSITY AND THE HEALTHY SOCIETY
Jewell Ann P. Manabat
Overview
In this unit, you will learn all about biodiversity, how organisms of
different species exist in different environments, and also how individuals of the
same species differ from one another. This unit will also discuss the importance
of biodiversity and how it helps not only humans but also the entire ecosystem.
You will also learn about the various threats to biodiversity and possibly think of
ways to address the problems concerning biodiversity, such as habitat loss and
extinction. Aside from this, you will also delve on the topic of genetically modified
organisms (GMOs). You will learn about the basic principles of cloning and genetic
engineering, weigh in the pros and cons of the use of GMOs, and the ethical issues
that encompass the use of such technology.
1. determine the interrelatedness of society, environment, and health;
2. define biodiversity and discuss its importance; and
3. discuss the ethics and implications of GMOs and potential future

impacts.
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Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: Take a look at your backyard and list down the different living things
and non-living things that you can see. Answer the questions that follow.
Living Things Non-Living Things
How do living and non-living things depend on one another to create diversity in
our ecosystem?
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________
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Lesson Proper
What is Biodiversity?
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life found in an ecosystem. It is a

combination of two words, biological (meaning life) and diversity (variety).
Biodiversity is the variability among living organisms, the ecosystem in which
they are a part of, and the diversity between species and species. It also includes
the interdependence and relationships between and among the organisms found
in a particular ecosystem and environment. Biodiversity is highly important
because it caters to most of our needs. It provides us with food, water, shelter,
medicine, and energy, to name a few. It is often categorized into three levels:
genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity.
Figure 7. Three levels of biodiversity

Source: es.govt.nz
Genetic diversity is the variety of genes in different organisms, such as

plants, animals, and microorganisms. For example, in humans, some genes
express different characteristics. In siblings, some may have straight hair while
some may have curly hair. Plants of the same species may show different colors
of flowers. You can also see numerous breeds of dogs that have different
characteristics but under the same species. This is because there are differences
in the DNA sequences of individual organisms.
According to the biological species concept of Mayr and Ashlock, species

refer to a group of individual organisms of similar characteristics that are capable
of interbreeding. Species diversity pertains to the diversity in the number of
species. This mainly involves species richness (the number of species in a
particular area measured by number individuals or biomass) and species
evenness (the relative abundance of a species in one specific area, determined as
either high or low).
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Ecological (or community) diversity refers to a variety of ecosystems or
habitats in a given region. According to Encyclopaedia Britannica, the ecosystem
is the complex of living organisms (biotic factors), physical environment (abiotic
factors), and their interrelatedness. Examples of ecosystems are forests, deserts,
wetlands, rivers, and reefs. Ecosystems cater to a wide range of species that
interact with one another to form a community. These organisms interact with
each other, but their survival is also influenced by the nonliving factors present
in their ecosystem. These nonliving or abiotic factors include water, air, light,
temperature, pH, and many more.
Some Terms Related to Biodiversity
Endemic species exist solely in a particular area. Some endemic species

can only be found in a particular country, region, or continent. The Philippines is
known to be one of the world’s hotspots for endemic species. Some endemic
species in our country include the tamaraw, tarsier, and Luzon hornbill.
Figure 8. The Philippine tamaraw is an endemic species

Source: science.ph
Biodiversity hotspots – are those regions or countries with rich

biodiversity but are under threats of depletion and loss of species. According to
Conservation International, there are two criteria to be considered to qualify as a
biodiversity hotspot: (1) the region or country must have at least 1,500 species of
endemic vascular plants, and (2) it must have 30% or less of its original natural
vegetation. The Philippine archipelago is considered a biodiversity hotspot.
Ecosystem services – refer to the benefits that the ecosystem provides to

humans through the transformation of resources (land, water, vegetation, etc.)
into a flow of essential goods and services. It can be categorized into four main
types: provisioning services, regulating services, supporting services, and cultural
services.
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Figure 9. Different types of ecosystem services and their examples
Importance of Biodiversity
Biodiversity affects humans in various aspects, including economy,

health, culture, aesthetics, and environmental issues. Essentially, biodiversity is
an important source of provisions. We get food from fruits, leaves, flowers, and
other plants and animals (meat, eggs, blood, organs), medicine (lagundi, guava,
aloe vera), and forest products such as tree trunks for housing materials.
Biodiversity also provides regulation and support to organisms and their
ecosystem. Mangrove forests regulate the impact of waves for those living near
the shore. Meanwhile, coral reefs provide food and habitat to fishes and other
marine organisms. We also use different plants for their aesthetic purposes.
People nowadays are into cultivating cacti and succulents as indoor plants, thorns
are used in traditional tattoo practices, and some plants are used as natural dyes.
The presence of animals such as the whale shark is used to boost ecotourism in
areas like Oslob in Cebu.
Biodiversity Loss
Biodiversity loss refers to the depletion or reduction of biological

diversity due to various threats to living organisms and their habitats. In the last
40 years, we have already lost more than half of the world’s biodiversity. Loss of
biodiversity can be brought about by natural causes such as destruction of
habitats, natural phenomenas (earthquake, typhoon, etc), and invasive species or
by man-made causes like pollution, over-exploitation, and even human
overpopulation. The United Nations (2019) reported that around 1 million
species of plants and animals are now facing extinction. It is predicted that by
2050, half of the world’s species will be extinct.
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The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is the
global authority on the natural world's status and the measures needed to
safeguard it. They formulated the so-called IUCN Red List Categories that define
the risk of extinction of known species.
Figure 10. IUCN Red List
1. Extinct (EX) – the last individual of the species has died

ex: golden toad, Japanese sea lion
2. Extinct in the wild (EW) – it is known to only survive in cultivation

and cannot be found in the wild or its expected habitat anymore
ex: Alagoas curassow, Hawaiian crow
3. Critically endangered (CR) – when the species is considered to be at

extremely high risk of extinction
ex: Philippine eagle, tamaraw
4. Endangered (EN) - when the species is considered to be at very high

risk of extinction
ex: Calamian deer, Visayas hornbill
5. Vulnerable (VU) - when the species is considered to be at high risk

of extinction
ex: molave, dugong
6. Near Threatened (NT) – the species is close to qualifying for a

threatened category in the near future
ex: bull shark, smooth cauliflower coral
7. Least Concern (LC) – the species is widespread and abundant

ex: Conus barbieri, giant reed
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8. Data Deficient (DD) – there is inadequate information to make a risk
assessment of the species
ex: Vicente’s poison frog, cherry plum
9. Not Evaluated (NE) – the species has not been evaluated yet
Causes of Biodiversity Loss
1. Habitat alteration and destruction – loss of habitat due to alteration

and destruction has a massive impact to biodiversity. Factors such as
deforestation, urbanization, fires, and land conversion impacts 85%
of all species under threatened, or endangered category. Some major
repercussions of habitat loss to species are relocation, predation,
starvation or even death. In the Philippines, one of our endemic
species, the Philippine eagle is critically endangered due to loss of
habitat brought about by deforestation. Sea cows or dugongs are also
losing their habitats due to coastal developments.
Figure 11. The Philippine eagle faces possible extinction due to loss of habitat
Source: gaiadiscovery.com
2. Pollution – is a condition wherein there is an abnormal increase in the

amount of natural-occurring compounds such as heavy metals,
nitrates, cyanides, agricultural wastes, sewage, pathogens, and gases,
to name a few. High concentrations of these substances make for
unfavorable environmental conditions, leading to diseases and even
death of organisms. Oil spills in bodies of water cause the death of
marine organisms. Air pollution kills birds and insects and causes
various respiratory and skin diseases in humans and other animals.
Wastes such as plastics that are improperly disposed of in oceans
cause the death of many marine organisms.
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Figure 12. Improper disposal of waste results to accumulation
of plastics in bodies of water
Source: scidev.net
3. Over-exploitation – is defined as the excessive or unsustainable

consumption of resources. Some examples of over-exploitation
include illegal logging, which causes the decline of hardwood trees.
Overfishing of the endemic fish tawilis found in Taal Lake resulted in
the decrease in its population and eventual endangerment.
Figure 13. The endemic fish tawilis, which can only be found
in Taal Lake might become extinct due to over-exploitation
Source: munitalks.ph
4. Global warming and climate change – the gradual increase in

temperature also poses a major threat to biodiversity. Melting of
icebergs in the polar regions led to sea-level rise and loss of habitat of
animals such as polar bears. Drastic changes in climate, extreme
weather conditions, grass, and forest fires are some of the impacts
that we are currently experiencing.
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Figure 13. Polar bears facing the threat of habitat loss and
starvation due to melting ice bergs
Source: climate.nasa.gov
5. Illegal poaching and wildlife trade – illegal trade of flora and fauna is
largely rampant on a global scale. These practices attributed not only
to the endangerment of some species but also to extinction to some.
Animals found in the wild are poached to be sold as exotic pets or for
alleged medicinal purposes. African elephants have been killed for
their ivory tusks. Plants are also sold at high prices as being rare or
hard-to-find items for plant collectors.
Figure 14. Elephants are killed for their tusks

Source: afd.fr
6. Diseases – some species are also under threat due to diseases brought
by climate change and as an adverse result of various human
activities. An example is a decline in the amphibian population
because of a fungal disease, which later resulted in the extinction of
the golden toad.
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Figure 15. The golden toad became extinct after contracting a
fungal disease
Source: landscapesandcycles.net
7. Introduction of invasive species – invasive species- has been

identified as the second-largest threat to biodiversity after habitat
loss. Invasive alien species (IAS) are those species introduced
whether by accident or intentional to a place which is not their natural
habitat. Their introduction could become a threat as they may
outcompete the native species for food and other resources, which
may lead to the decline of population or extinction of the latter.
Introduction of IAS are usually related to human interests, mostly
being introduced for economic reasons. An example of IAS is the water
hyacinth, commonly found in rivers and swamps. This plant species is
native to South America and has rapidly invaded tropical regions. It
can grow up to one meter long and spread rapidly, causing oxygen
depletion, killing fishes such as what happened in Laguna de Bay.
Other examples of invasive alien species found in the Philippines are
tilapia, Brazilian mahogany, knife fish, and the golden apple snail.
Figure 16. Water hyacinths block bodies of water making it

difficult to navigate through rivers
Source: gmanetwork.com
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What are Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)?
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are organisms with foreign genes

incorporated to exhibit desirable characteristics that do not occur naturally thru
mating and natural recombination (Key, 2008). GMOs have been engineered in
the laboratory through genetic modification. Genomes are altered by including or
inserting genes from unrelated organisms such as bacteria, viruses, insects, and
animals to achieve desirable traits or characteristics. Some benefits of GMOs are
increased crop yield, pesticide-resistance, enhanced nutrient composition,
tolerance to stress, faster maturity, and medical benefits.
Process of Making Genetically Modified Organisms
1. Identification of a trait of interest –first, scientists identify the trait

they want to be expressed. Then they find an organism that already
has that trait in their gene
2. Isolation of gene – after determining the trait, the scientists either

isolate that gene that expresses the desired trait or copy it from the
organism
3. Gene insertion – once they isolate the gene, it is inserted to the

organism that will be modified. The inserted gene will not change the
other traits already present in that organism
4. The GMO is allowed to grow – the modified organism is allowed to

grow in laboratory conditions. Once it grows successfully in the
laboratory, subsequent procedures such as field tests, biosafety
assessments and economic feasibility are conducted before the
product is released for commercial use or consumption.
Uses of Genetically Modified Organisms
1. Bt cotton – inserted with a gene from the bacterium Bacillus

thuringiensis which produces a natural insecticide for bollworm called
Bt toxin. Bt cotton has demonstrated a higher yield compared to non-
Bt cotton.
2. golden rice – created by inserting a gene from daffodil and the

bacterium Erwinia uredovora to enable the accumulation of beta-
carotene in the rice endosperm for vitamin A synthesis.
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Figure 17. The development of golden rice
Source: isaaa.org
3. GM mosquitoes – developed to express SM1 protein preventing the

entry of the malarial parasite Plasmodium into the mosquito’s gut
breaking the life cycle of the parasite
4. Xenotransplantation – the process of using animal organs, tissues and

cells for human needs. This addresses the concern when it comes to
shortage in organ donors for transplants.
Figure 18. Xenotransplantation has been used to transplant a

pig’s heart to a baboon
Source: nature.com
5. Glofish – a GM zebrafish inserted with a gene from jellyfish to express

bioluminescence. It was initially produced to detect water pollution
but was later on commercialized as pets.
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Risks and Downsides of Genetically Modified Organisms
1. Ecosystem Risks – GMOs pose a threat of potentially becoming

invasive species if they become unregulated. Many GMOs are known
to grow fast and increase rapidly.
2. Genetic contamination or interbreeding – GMOs may interbreed with

wild types which can lead to loss of trait for future generations.
Conversely, wild types can inherit the modified traits which can
disrupt the natural ecosystem where it belongs.
3. Adverse effects on health – GMOs may cause adverse effects and

health risks to humans. Some GMOs were claimed to cause allergic
reactions and other risks if consumed.
4. Social acceptance – many are still hesitant about consumption and

development of GMOs. Social acceptance will also determine the
success of the GMO, if people will not consume or use the product, the
development of such technology will be deemed useless.
5. Economic issues and access – Investors are expecting huge return of

investments in the development of GMOs, thus making it expensive
and accessible to only selected few who can afford the product
6. Animal welfare – animal welfare issues are raised especially in GM

animals such as the GM pig and other animals used for
xenotransplantation, as well as the use of animals such as rats for trial
testing in laboratories.
7. Pest and antibiotic resistance – pests may later evolve to develop

resistance to pest-killing GMOs which would render the GMO useless
later on. It can also contribute to the growing problem of antibiotic
resistance.
Policies and Politics on GMOs
Here are some terms related to the different policies and political
standpoints regarding genetically modified organisms:
Biosafety is defined as the condition to which potential harm,

damage or threats caused by the introduction of biotechnology
(intentional or not) is under manageable or acceptable level.
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Risk Assessment is the process of evaluating or identifying the
potential hazards or damages biotechnology can cause to humans,
animals, and the environment. It also includes the development of
mitigation measures towards those risks.
The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety is an international protocol

that regulates the production and use of genetically modified organisms
to ensure biosafety. This protocol is an international agreement that aims
to ensure safe handling, transport, and consumption of living GMOs while
also taking into account its risks to human health. The countries that
joined this protocol are obliged to implement its provisions.
Executive Order No. 430 promulgated a system biosafety

regulations that are used in the Philippines. The said regulation was
already in existence since 1990 and is known to be the first in the world.
National Committee on Biosafety of the Philippines is the

government agency that is in charge of the implementation of various
regulations related to biotechnology assessment, commercialization of
GMOs, and labeling of GMO products.
References
About IUCN. Retrieved from https://www.iucn.org/about
Biodiversity & Human Well-being. In Green Facts. Retrieved from

https://www.greenfacts.org/en/biodiversity/l-3/1-define-
biodiversity.htm
Biodiversity Hotspots. In Conservation.org. Retrieved from

https://www.conservation.org/priorities/biodiversity-hotspots
Bynum, N. (2019). 6. Species Diversity. In Biology LibreTexts. Retrieved from

https://bio.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Ecology/Book%3A_Biodiversity
_(Bynum)/6%3A_Species_Diversity
Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (2009). Ecosystem
Services: Key Concepts and Applications, Occasional Paper No 1,
Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts, Canberra.
Diaz, J. and J.L. Fridovich-Keil. (2020). Genetically modified organism. In

Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved from www.britannica.com/science/
genetically-modified-organism
116
FDA. (2020). How are GMOs Made?
Godani, H. 10 major causes for the loss of biodiversity. In Biology Discussion.

Retrieved from https://www.biologydiscussion.com/biodiversity/loss-
of-biodiversity/10-major-causes-for-the-loss-of-biodiversity/8394
Harris. A. The Endemic Species in the Philippines. Retrieved from

https://animals.mom.me/endemic-species-philippines-7975.html
Hilbeck, A., Meyer, H., Wynne, B. et al. GMO regulations and their interpretation:
how EFSA’s guidance on risk assessments of GMOs is bound to
fail. Environ Sci Eur 32, 54 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12302-020-
00325-6
Introduction to biodiversity. In PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment

Agency. Retrieved from https://www.pbl.nl/en/Introduction-
biodiversity
IUCN. (2012). IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria: Version 3.1. Second edition.
Gland, Switzerland and Cambridge, UK: IUCN. iv + 32pp.
IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria. Retrieved from

https://www.iucnredlist.org/resources/categories-and-criteria
Loss of Biodiversity. In Save Earth. Retrieved from

https://www.saveearth.info/loss-of-biodiversity/
Mayuga, J.L. (2019). Invasive alien species: a serious threat to ecosystems,

biodiversity. In The Business Mirror. Retrieved from
https://businessmirror.com.ph/2019/07/15/invasive-alien-species-a-
serious-threat-to-ecosystems-biodiversity/
Phillips, T. (2008) Genetically modified organisms (GMOs): Transgenic crops and

recombinant DNA technology. Nature Education 1(1):213
Priyadarshi, S. 8 major causes of Biodiversity – Explained! In Biology Discussion.

Retrieved from https://www.biologydiscussion.com/biodiversity/8-
major-causes-of-biodiversity-explained/5449
Torres-Uriarte, M. Some introduced alien species in the Philippines and their

effects on ecosystems. Retrieved from
http://www.fao.org/3/AG117E10.htm
117
UN Report: Nature’s Dangerous Decline ‘Unprecedented’:Species Extinction Rates
‘Accelerating’. Retrieved from
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2019/05/nature-
decline-unprecedented-report/
118
Assessing Learning
Activity 22
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Answer the following questions briefly.
4. How is diversity related to a healthy society?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
5. What is the difference between species richness and species evenness?

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
6. Differentiate the three levels of biodiversity. Give examples of each one.

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
7. Do you think GMOs are safe to consume? Explain your answer.

___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
8. Discuss and give examples of the following:
a. Ethical issues about GMOs

_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
119
b. Moral issues about GMOs
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
c. Health issues about GMOs

_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
120
Activity 23
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Make a research on invasive species found in the Philippines. On the

table below, list down five invasive species, their desired effect and their negative
effect to the biodiversity.
Desired/expected Negative effect on

Invasive species
effect biodiversity
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
121
Activity 24
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Below are a few more examples of genetically modified organisms.

Identify the improved characteristics/traits of the following:
a. Flavr Savr Tomatoes _______________________________________________________
b. Bt corn _______________________________________________________
c. GM salmon _______________________________________________________
d. Vacanti mouse _______________________________________________________
e. Spider goat _______________________________________________________
f. GM soybeans _______________________________________________________
g. GM apple _______________________________________________________
h. GM alfalfa _______________________________________________________
i. Featherless chicken _______________________________________________________
j. Herman the bull _______________________________________________________
122
Activity 25
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Write a short essay about the given issue. Your essay should be at least
100 words and should not exceed 300 words.
Bt eggplant is a genetically-modified eggplant developed by Filipino

scientists. It was developed to become pest-resistance containing the gene of the
bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis which contains toxins that are lethal to some
insects including the pest bollworm. Currently, it is under controversy because of
a legal battle between its supporters and those who are against it.
Should the government ban the production, commercialization and

consumption of the said product?
123
UNIT X. THE NANO WORLD
Danny O. Alfonso
Overview
This chapter will give you some knowledge of the application of

nanotechnology. This will help you analyze the situation of today’s trend (use of
modern technologies). This chapter will give you an idea of the advantages and
disadvantages of using nanotechnology, is it helpful or not?
1. define nanotechnology;
2. identify risk and issues in nanotechnology; and
3. cite some examples of nanotechnology and its benefits in the society.
124
Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: Find and encircle all the direction words that are hidden in the grid.
The words may be hidden in any direction.
Y T I T L X N P R I V A C Y S D B X N O A S
W E E E R T Y R R T Y O N N A N E T Y L E A
I T Y C G R T R B N E Q U A L I T Y S L L N
W E R N H T D T N M F G H J K L T K C H U O
X D G E J N K I C B J I L E G A L I T Y S N
E T H I C S O C B J T D U T Y T T Y I P P X
W J K C N S G L Q W E R T Y U R Y I O Y A O
E L D S A N D E O P A S E D A F I G H T C S
R N W O O R P S J G K L X P Z X O C V I O O
F D E N N T O E B N Y M O M N B Q V C U N C
H C R A E S E R L K J N S H G F E Z X Q A O
H W F N R U I T D S A A O P O I U Y T E N M
M R A O E Y U Y R N E W M Q W E R T Y U I T
L T N M I C R O S C O P E O P A S D F G H Y
D Y N A Y W E R T Y U I O P N A N O A S D U
S E T I S O P M O C O N A N O I B N M J H F
NANO TECHNOLOGY NANOPARTICLES NANOSCIENCE

SENSOR EXOSOME EQUALITY ETHICS
RESEARCH EQUITY LEGALITY PRIVACY
MICROSCOPE NANOCAPSULE BIONANOCOMPOSITES
125
Lesson Proper
The Nano World
According to Powell and Kanarek (2006), Nanotechnology is also known

as “general purpose technology” because of its global impacts and effects, while
some call it “enabling technology” because it supports other technologies.
Nanotechnology is considered a fast-growing area of science and research. It
involves both basic and applied research interconnecting in computer science and
information technology, medical technology, agriculture, life sciences,
engineering, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
What is Nanotechnology?
Nanotechnology. It refers to the development of products or manipulation

of matter at the nanoscale. The word nanotechnology comes from the word nano
and technology; nano is one billionth of a quantity and technology application of
scientific knowledge (Stander and Theodore, 2011). The building blocks of
nanotechnology is called Nanoparticles. These particles that are 1 to 100
nanometers in size. A Nanometer is a billionth of a meter. Nanoscience is known
as the science of nanoparticles.
How small is NANO?
Nanoparticles or materials at the nanoscale are larger than atoms and

molecules but are smaller than the size of bacteria and viruses. To see
nanoparticles, electron microscope and atomic force microscope must be
used.
Potential Use and Application of Nanotechnology
Dayrit (2008), said that nanotechnology has numerous applications. In

operating nanoscale, it can easily show the physical, chemical, and biological
properties of matter (solid, liquid, gas). When an object/material is manipulated
at the nanoscale, the features of that object will change and can be used as
potential applications. In the nanoscale, the surface area per mass increases,
which allows for an additional surface area for the reaction, which makes it a good
catalyst. A lot of biological activities happen in terms of function, structure, and
use. Example: Exosome, secreted by vessels primarily for transport, which
contain loads of proteins and other molecules. Through nanotechnology,
exosomes are made to become potential biomarkers of cancer and other diseases.
The huge choice of uses and applications of these nanoparticles has increased
126
because of its unique properties and structures, which are now used in medicine,
food security, agriculture, environment, and other fields. One good example is the
nanosensor; this sensor is used to detect the pathogens' presence in the food. The
detection is in the form of fluorescence. Another is bionanocomposites, a
combination of biopolymers and inorganic molecules that results in the
production of biodegradable plastics. An example of nanotechnology in energy is
carbon nanotubes used in the development of supercapacitors that can store
electrical energy like batteries. Also, nanocapsules that are used to deliver soil
nutrients and pesticides efficiently.
Concerns and Issues About Nanotechnology
1. Human Health
Particles are manipulated. Thus, changing its original properties

and structure. Exposure to nanoparticles may cause health impact
through direct treatment, contact, inhalation, ingestion, or insertion.
There is a need to further understand, evaluate, and assess the long-term
effect of nanoparticles.
2. Environment
Nanotechnology requires raw material that can be attained from

the environment. Like in any other technologies, it has a positive and
negative impact on the environment, a need for a deeper understanding
of its effect.
3. Ethical Concern
A lot of people are not favor or against nanotechnology. It is been

accused for altering or modifying life forms, which they believe
terminating the purity of life. It can lead to the development of biological
and chemical weapons, synthetic organisms, and genome editing, which
associated with ethical consideration.
4. Equality and Equity
Also, an issue on unequal access of using these technologies. This

technology is said to be only to those who can afford or have the means.
But how about those who couldn’t access and use them? They may suffer
from the risk or the negative effect of using such technology. Hence, there
is inequality.
127
5. Legality, Privacy and Security
A set of issues was raised like security. Example: who is

responsible for the monitoring and control of nanoparticles?
Nanotechnology is said to be one of the possible security and threat in the
future.
6. Human Behaviour
Nowadays, humans rely mainly on modern technologies. Like

other technologies, one of the negative effects of nanotechnology is that it
may affect humans' behavior in terms of the usage and development of
new products that may be addictive. It may reduce human productivity,
remember that there is an impact of excessive use of these technologies.
However, Human health and safety and environmental impact should be
given the top priority in researches concerning nanotechnology since
humans are the beneficiaries of any research effort in this field.
To help you understand more on the topic nanotechnology, try to watch

the videos:
1. TED Talk: Ray Kurzwell on “How Technology Will Transform Us”

2. Film: Powers of 10
References
Dayrit, F.M. (2008). Nanotechnology Business and Practical Applications: Where

the Philippines Is and Where it should be. Powerpoint Presentations.
Management Association of the Philippines.. Aug 5, 2008.
Powell, M.C. and Kanarek, M.S. (2006). The Ethics and Politics of Nanotechnology.
UNESCO Wisconsin Medical Journal 105(2):16-19.
Stander, L. and Theodore, L. (2011). Environmental Implications of

Nanotechnology-An update Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 8:470-479;
doi:10.3390/ijerph8020470.
http://frontleraners.com/blended/2020/june/16
128
Assessing Learning
Activity 26
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: In your own perspective, define the following terminologies:

1. Nanotechnology
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. Nanoproduct
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
3. Find/cite specific example and give a minor/slight description for the

given applications of nanotechnology.
Application Example
Medicine
Food
Agriculture
Energy
Information
Technology
129
Activity 27
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Answer the following questions.
1. Do you think nanotechnology poses health risk? Justify your answer by

citing references.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
2. Imagine you were a scientist, think of a nanotechnology product that you

can use which can be beneficial in your field of interest.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
130
Activity 28
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Search for a nanotechnology product or application that is already

being used in the Philippines or in other country. Your research output must
contain the following:
1. The name of the product or the application.
2. How it was produced/build/develop?
3. What are the PROs and CONs of using the product or application?
4. Cite a possible ethical concerns or issues about the product or application.
5. If you would be given a chance to use such product or application. Will

you use it or not?
131
UNIT XI. GENE THERAPY
Angel Joyce C. Fajardo
Overview
In this unit, you will learn about Gene Therapy, a technique used to treat
genetic diseases that otherwise do not have existing cures. We will also talk about
its associated benefits and risks and the different ways it can be performed. The
ethical considerations in performing gene therapy will also be covered.
1. describe gene therapy and its various forms;
2. identify ethical and moral issues that may arise from gene therapy; and
3. assess the potential benefits and detriments of gene therapy to global

health and the society.
132
Setting Up
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: Did you know that modern science and technology now has ways to
cure many previously incurable diseases? Let’s see if you can benefit from what
we will be learning about today by first answering the following questions:
1. Does your family have a medical history of inherited diseases like cancer,
diabetes, heart attack, hypertension, or stroke? If so, please specify which
ones.
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
2. Have you experienced any problems or difficulties due to these diseases?

(Ex.: financial problems, death of a loved one, etc.)
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
3. If you or a family member is suffering from a certain disease and the doctors
tell you that there is a new way to cure these disease and save your or your
family member’s life but it is not guaranteed that there will be no side
effects, will you be willing to undergo the treatment?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
4. What would your life be like if you can make sure that your children and
grandchildren will be safe from these family diseases even before they are
born?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
133
Lesson Proper
What is Gene Therapy?
A wide range of diseases such as cystic fibrosis, cancer, diabetes, heart

disease, AIDS, and hemophilia are caused by genetic irregularities or
deformities (Yazdani et al., 2018). Gene therapy is an experimental technique
developed in order to treat these diseases. Gene therapy is the introduction,
removal, or alteration of genetic material in order to prevent or treat a disease.
How Does Gene Therapy Work?
Ideally, gene therapy may someday allow doctors to treat disorders by

inserting or replacing genes into a patient’s cells instead of through surgery or
drugs (U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2020). There are various approaches in
performing gene therapy, including:
a. Replacing a disease-causing mutated gene with a healthy copy of the gene
b. Inactivating or “silencing” a mutated gene or a gene that is not functioning

properly
c. Introducing a new gene into the body to help counteract or fight the disease
d. Correcting the sequence of a mutated gene
Figure 19. The 4 Main Approaches of Gene Therapy

Source: https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-
7fc3c56a4e0c602ed4366c1f152f969c
Replacing A Mutated Gene (GENE REPLACEMENT)
134
In order to replace a problematic or mutated gene:
• A functional and healthy gene will be inserted to a viral
vector
• The viral vector will carry and place the healthy gene on the
site of mutation
• The mutated non-functional gene will be “spliced” or cut and
removed
• The healthy gene will be attached and becomes a part of the
final DNA strand.
Figure 20. Gene Replacement

Source:https://slideplayer.com/slide/4318654/14/images/14/Gene+replacement.jpg
Gene Silencing or Gene Knockdown
Figure 21. Comparison between normal protein production and the

protein production upon gene silencing
Source:https://web.stanford.edu/group/hopes/cgi-bin/hopes_test/wp-
content/uploads/2012/04/genesilencing.jpg
This method aims to repress or turn off the function of a mutated

gene which prevents the cells from producing disease-causing proteins.
135
Gene silencing reduces the expression of a disease-causing gene (Hood,
2004; Mocellin & Provenzano, 2004). It can be done by:
a. inserting a repressor a.k.a silencer gene that reduces or prevents

the expression of the mutated gene
b. editing the gene to make it impossible for it to produce the protein

it codes for
Although gene silencing is often considered as the same thing as

gene knockdown, this is debatable because some say that when genes
are knocked out, they are often completely removed or erased from the
genome in order to stop their expression (Hood, 2004; Mocellin &
Provenzano, 2004).
Figure 22. Gene Silencing Mechanism

Source: https://images.newscientist.com/wp-content/uploads/2003/03/dn3493-
1_550.jpg?width=300
Introducing a New Gene (GENE ADDITION)
In gene addition, new and functional genes are introduced or

added into the genome to help fight or prevent a disease (Pharmaphorum,
2019).
Figure 23. Gene Addition

Source: https://www.pharmaceutical-journal.com/Pictures/580xAny/4/7/5/1067475_gene-
136
therapy-gene-addition-process-14.jpg
Figure 24. Gene Addition Therapy

Source:https://cdn1.byjus.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Gene-Therapy.png
The introduction of a new gene can also be used to kill specific

diseased cells. This is useful for diseases like cancer.
There are two ways to do this:

1. by inserting a gene called the suicide gene into the diseased
cells that will cause the cells to die
2. by inserting a gene that will cause the cells to produce a

protein that will mark them as a target for the body’s natural
immune system response.
Figure 25. Killing Specific Cells

Source: https://genetherapyscience.weebly.com/uploads/9/1/4/6/91468512/gene-therapy-
targeting-yourgenome.png?453
Correcting the sequence of a mutated gene (GENE EDITING)
In gene editing, instead of replacing the whole gene, the specific

error is located and edited.
137
Figure 26. Gene Editing
Source:https://images.theconversation.com/files/142832/original/image-20161024-15958-
8t6r6g.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&q=45&auto=format&w=1000&fit=clip
Two types of Gene Therapy
There are two distinct types of gene therapy, depending on the nature of
the target cells: Somatic and Germline Gene Therapy. If the target cells are
anybody cells except the sperm and egg cell and the cells that produce them, this
is Somatic Gene Therapy. When the cells targeted are either sperm or egg cells,
this is Germline Gene Therapy (Chatterjee, Singh, & Saluja, 2013).
Figure 27. Two types of cells

Source:https://i2.wp.com/sitn.hms.harvard.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Final-Figure-03.png
Somatic Gene Therapy
This type of gene therapy is effective in treating diseases like

muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, cancer, and some infectious diseases.
The effects of this method are short-lived and will not be passed on to the
next generation. So, the children of a patient treated using somatic gene
therapy are still at risk of contracting the diseases.
138
Figure 28. Somatic Gene Therapy
Source:https://www.open.edu/openlearn/ocw/pluginfile.php/69119/mod_oucontent/ouco
ntent/508/e5250abb/452f0e39/sk195_5_002i.jpg
Figure 29. The Process for Somatic Gene Therapy

Source:https://images.app.goo.gl/ZZcWuERSmJmfZFG1A
Figure 30. In vivo and Ex vivo Somatic Gene Therapy

Source:https://www.mdpi.com/cancers/cancers-11-
01265/article_deploy/html/images/cancers-11-01265-g001.png
139
Somatic Gene Therapy can be done ex vivo (outside the body) or
in vivo (inside the body)
Germline Gene Therapy
In Germline Gene Therapy, on the other hand, the cells that

produce the reproductive cells or sex cells (the egg or sperm) are
modified, and all the cells of the resulting embryo will possess the edited
gene. The effect of removing or correcting the disease will be passed on to
the patient’s children as well as the generations after them. Therefore,
there is a possibility of permanently removing an inherited disorder or
disease from a family line. As of 2014, about 40 countries have
discouraged or banned research on Germline Gene Therapy (Araki & Ishii,
2014). It is currently not allowed to be done on humans because of ethical
and safety concerns and issues regarding possible permanent changes in
human genes.
Figure 31. The Process of Germline Gene Therapy

Source:https://image.slidesharecdn.com/genetherapy-exvivomethod-
190603094856/95/gene-therapy-ex-vivo-method-10-638.jpg?cb=1559555393
Challenges Associated with Gene Therapy
While Gene Therapy is no doubt a breakthrough in science and medicine,

there are several challenges to its success and problems that can be associated
with it.
A. Gene Delivery and Activation
In most cases, a therapeutic gene needs to be delivered not just to

a single cell but to groups of cells or tissues. This requires an accurate and
specific gene delivery. Otherwise, gene therapy may be useless. After
arriving at the correct target cells, the genes must also be “turned on” and
140
have to remain “on”. However, cells can have the tendency to “turn off”
certain genes when there are already too many active genes.
In some cases, delivered genes may also be overactivated, causing

their overexpression. The overproduction of enzymes or proteins due to
this overactivation may lead to other health issues and problems.
B. The Body’s Immune Response
Our immune system is naturally inclined to attack any foreign

intruders like viruses and bacteria. Because gene therapy uses viral
vectors to transport genes, they need to be able to avoid the body’s
immune system to prevent it from attacking them. This is often
challenging to do.
Additionally, the treatment effects are often short-lived, so

patients will need to undergo multiple rounds of gene therapy. However,
if the patient’s immunity is low due to gene therapy, there is a risk for the
disease to progress or get worse. This makes it even more difficult to
repeat gene therapy.
C. Impact to Non-Target Genes and Cells
While very small, there is also a risk of attaching or inserting

modified genes into the wrong part of the genome or the wrong cell, which
can lead to a series of reactions that can cause cell death. This may also
negatively affect the function of surrounding healthy cells.
Viral vectors also tend to disrupt vital genes, possibly leading to

another disease or predisposition to other diseases like cancer. This can
also trigger inflammatory, toxicity, or immune responses. Other cells may
also be targeted aside from the target cells.
D. Limited Access and Commercial Availability
Many genetic diseases are not common. For rare diseases, gene
therapy should be individualized and customized to every patient to
ensure effectiveness. This makes developing and administering gene
therapy very expensive.
Even for more common genetic disorders and related diseases

like cancer, gene therapy is still more costly than other treatment options.
Because of this, many people cannot afford and do not have access to gene
therapy.
141
E. Multi-gene Disorders
Multiple genes with different functions control genetic disorders

like high blood pressure, heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and
Alzheimer’s disease. So, to treat these diseases, many genes may have to
be corrected, deleted, or replaced. Doing so may lead to complicated
reactions in the body or possibly even more dangerous diseases.
Ethical Questions in Gene Therapy
Because it involves changing the body’s genetic information, the use of

Gene Therapy, especially germline gene therapy, is a widely debated topic due to
its ethical issues (US National Library of Medicine, 2020). Some of the ethical
questions about gene therapy that we should address are:
1. How can we distinguish “good” from “bad” gene therapy?
2. Who gets to decide which traits and genes constitute a disability or

disorder?
3. Because of the expensive costs of gene therapy, will it only be available for
rich people?
4. Is there a possibility that a widespread use of gene therapy can make

society less accepting of people who are different?
5. Aside from medical applications, should we be allowed to use gene

therapy for enhancements of basic human traits such as athletic ability,
height, intelligence, and hair or eye color?
Online Video Watching:
If you are interested to learn more about Gene Therapy and other related
topics, you may watch the following videos that you can find online (optional):
1. TED Talk: Juan Enriquez on “The Next Species of Human”

https://www.ted.com/talks/juan_enriquez_the_next_species_of_human/
up-next?language=en
2. TED Talk: Susan Lim on “Transplant Cells Not Organs”
142
https://www.ted.com/talks/susan_lim_transplant_cells_not_organs?lang
uage=en
3. Science Fiction: Stem Cell Research (Youtube)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPy7NFkJ-TQ
References
Araki, M., & Ishii, T. (2014). International regulatory landscape and integration of
corrective genome editing into in vitro fertilization. Reprod Biol
Endocrinol, 12, 108. doi:10.1186/1477-7827-12-108
Chatterjee, A., Singh, N., and Saluja, M. (2013) Gene Therapy in periodontics.
Journal of Indian Society Periodontology. 17(2):156-161
Hood E (March 2004). "RNAi: What's all the noise about gene silencing?".
Environmental Health Perspectives. 112 (4): A224–9.
doi:10.1289/ehp.112-a224. PMC 1241909. PMID 15033605.
Mocellin S, Provenzano M (November 2004). "RNA interference: learning gene

knock-down from cell physiology". Journal of Translational Medicine. 2
(1): 39. doi:10.1186/1479-5876-2-39. PMC 534783. PMID 15555080.
Pharmaphorum (2019). Gene addition - a new chapter in treating rare diseases.

Retrieved from https://pharmaphorum.com/views-and-analysis/gene-
addition-a-new-chapter-in-treating-rare-
diseases/#:~:text=A%20technique%20called%20'gene%20addition,to
%20fight%20or%20prevent%20disease on July 20, 2020
U.S. National Library of Medicine (2020). Your Guide to Understanding Genetic

Conditions: What is Gene Therapy? Retrieved from
https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/primer/therapy/genetherapy on July 20, 2020
U.S. National Library of Medicine (2020). Your Guide to Understanding Genetic
Conditions: What is Gene Therapy? Retrieved from
https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/primer/therapy/ethics on July 20, 2020
Yazdani, A., Alirezaie, Z.,Motamedi, M.J., & Amani, J. (2018) Gene Therapy: A New
Approach in Modern Medicine. Int J Med Rev 2018 Sep;5(3):106-117. doi:
10.29252/IJMR-050304
143
Assessing Learning
Activity 29
Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________
Directions: Answer the following questions by selecting and writing ONLY THE
CAPITAL LETTER of the correct answer on the space before each number. Any
form of erasures or alteration is NOT allowed. Write:
A if only the first statement is correct

B if only the second statement is correct
C if both statements are correct and
D if both statements are wrong
_______1. A. Gene therapy is a great way to treat all kinds of diseases.

B. Gene therapy involves replacing, removing, modifying, and
adding genes.
_______2. A. Gene therapy can replace surgery or drugs.

B. Diabetes, cystic fibrosis, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer are
just some of the diseases that can be treated through gene
therapy.
_______3. A. Diseases caused by mutated genes can be cured by removing or

replacing the problematic gene.
B. The same form of viruses that carry diseases is used to carry the
gene in gene therapy.
_______4. A. Germline Gene therapy results are not inheritable or passed on

to the next generations.
B. Somatic Gene therapy is performed on reproductive or sex
cells.
_______5. A. Ex vivo gene therapy is done outside the body while in vivo is
done inside.
B.Germline Gene Therapy may be performed in vivo or ex vivo.
_______6. A. Overactivation of genes is a positive effect of gene therapy.

B. Gene therapy is a cheaper alternative to medication and
surgery.
_______7. A. Somatic gene therapy is generally more accepted in the medical

community than germline gene therapy.
144
B. Defective genes can be silenced by adding suicide or repressor
genes.
_______8. A. All genetic diseases involve errors or defects in only one gene.
B. Gene therapy can make a patient more susceptible to other
diseases.
_______9. A. Effects of gene therapy are lifelong.

B. Gene editing is more specific than gene replacement.
_______10. A. Gene silencing prevents the target gene from producing a

disease-causing protein.
B. In gene addition, a new mutant gene is introduced into the
genome to help fight or prevent a disease.
145

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UNIT I.

GENERAL CONCEPTS AND HISTORICAL

There is a secure connection between science and technology with

At the end of the unit, I am able to:

1. discuss how science and technology affect the environment and

2. discuss the factors which affect the advancement of science and

3. identify the important persons throughout the history of science and

Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

2. Give examples of ancient technologies from which our modern day

Introduction to Science and Technology

‘Science’ can be explained into three definitions. First, science is a

‘Technology’ can be defined as an artifact from which it refers to

Science and Technology

Figure 1. Dual interactions between science and technology

Figure 2. Dual interactions of science and technology with

As population increases and food resources started to decrease, people

Transportation was improved through the development of wheels.

The present perception and concept of science started in this period of

Many Greek philosophers who laid the foundation of modern-day science

Socrates (470-339 BC)

Socrates built the basic foundation of making a hypothesis, which

Plato (427-37 BC)

Plato highlighted the concept of having ‘proof’ in research. He

Aristotle (384-322 BC)

Aristotle initiated the discipline of using the deductive method of

The center of scientific knowledge was established in the city of

The construction of the Great Wall of China was one of China's

The progression of science and technology turned to decrease due to the

The rise of Christianity in Europe was also considered a factor in the

As science seemed to decline in Europe, medicine remained and grew due

Emperor Charlemagne revived science in Europe wherein, he ordered the

Renaissance is a cultural movement that is based on humanism, which a

The Scientific Revolution advanced the field of astronomy due to the

The invention of the microscope significantly advanced science during the

Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) was noted to be the leading figure of the

The publication of Carolus Linnaues’ works on the biological classification

This age is also known as the period of ‘Enlightenment’, which highlighted

However, the Industrial Revolution's progression led to the rapid

The theory of evolution proposed by Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace

During the 19th century, more collaboration efforts among scientists

The period of the Agricultural revolution occurred in 1940 in the

Moreover, the development of the internet, computers, softwares, and

Since water bodies surround the Philippines, Filipinos created good

Science and technology in the Philippines rapidly advanced due to

The ‘National Research Council of the Philippines’ was established in

In 1947, the Bureau of Science was replaced by the Institute of science. In

Bandhari, S. (2017). Top 10 Contributions of Aristiotle in scientific Field.

Caoli, O. C. (1986). A History of Science and Technology in the Philippines.

McGinn, R. E. (1991). Science, technology, and society. Englewood Cliffs, NJ:

Nebres, B. F. (2007). Building a Science Culture in the Philippines. Trans. Natl.

Directions: Briefly answer the following questions.

2. What are the significance of these advancements in science and

3. What are the negative impacts of these advancements in science and

Directions: Write an essay on each of following questions. (Minimum of 100

1. The COVID-19 pandemic has displayed the interconnection of society

2. What are the impacts of science and technology in society in terms of

At the end of the unit, I am able to:

1. differentiate intellectual revolution to scientific revolution;

2. analyze intellectual revolutions like Copernican, Darwinian and

3. appreciate contributions of some selected world civilizations like in

Name: _____________________________________________ Date: ________________________

Directions: The following grid contains 10 words associated with intellectual

Name: _____________________ Date:

Name: _____________________ Date:

Name: _____________________ Date: