Palawan State University

College of Sciences
Biophysical Department

GE-STS: Science, Technology and Society

Midyear,2023
Final Examination
Name: __________________________ Score: _____________
Course and Block No.: _____________ Date: ______________

Instruction: Read the following carefully.

1. Exam Format: This is an essay-type exam, where you will be required to write in-depth responses to the given prompts or questions. Your
answers should be well-structured, coherent, and supported by relevant arguments, examples, and evidence.
2. Time Limit: You have five (5) hours to submit you the exam, which will be communicated to you at the beginning of the test. Manage your
time wisely to ensure you can address all the questions thoroughly.
3. Read the Prompts Carefully: Take the time to read each prompt or question carefully and understand what is being asked. Pay a ttention to
any specific instructions, key terms, or limitations mentioned in the question.
4. Plan Your Response: Before you start writing, take a few minutes to outline your response. Organize your thoughts, main point s, and
supporting arguments. A well-structured essay typically includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
5. Introduction: Start your essay with a clear and concise introduction that provides context and introduces the main points you will be
discussing. It should also include a thesis statement that outlines the central argument of your essay.
6. Body Paragraphs: The body of your essay should consist of multiple paragraphs, each addressing a specific aspect of the prompt or question.
Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence that presents the main idea of the paragraph, followed by supporting evidence and examples.
Use logical transitions to ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs.
7. Support Your Arguments: Use relevant facts, data, examples, and references from credible sources to support your arguments. Avoid making
unsupported claims or generalizations.
8. Critical Thinking: Demonstrate critical thinking and analytical skills in your responses. Evaluate different perspectives, discuss
counterarguments, and explain why you hold a particular viewpoint.
9. Clarity and Conciseness: Write in clear and concise language. Avoid using overly complex or ambiguous language that might obscure your
ideas. Use proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
10. Conclusion: End your essay with a strong conclusion that summarizes your main points and restates your thesis. Avoid introduc ing new
information in the conclusion.
11. Review Your Work: If time permits, take a few minutes to review your essay. Check for any errors, omissions, or areas that ne ed clarification.
Ensure that your essay effectively addresses all aspects of the question.
12. Submission: When the exam time is up, make sure to submit your essay as instructed by the exam proctor or through the designated online
platform.
13. Each questions weights ten (10) points.

Grading Criteria:
Your essays will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Clarity of Expression: Are your ideas presented in a clear and coherent manner?
2. Depth of Understanding: Have you demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of human flourishing and the human condition?
3. Critical Analysis: Have you engaged in critical thinking and analytical reasoning in your responses?
4. Use of Evidence: Have you supported your arguments with relevant examples, evidence, and references?
5. Structure and Organization: Are your essays well-structured, with logical transitions between paragraphs and sections?
6. Originality: Have you presented unique insights or perspectives on the topic?
7. Grammar and Mechanics: Is your writing free from grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation errors?

TOPICS:
HUMAN FLOURISHING & HUMAN CONDITION

Instructions: Choose three (2) out of the four (4) essay prompts below and write a well-structured essay for each prompt. Each essay should be
approximately 300 to 600 words in length. Support your arguments with relevant examples, evidence, and references. Remember to demonstrate
critical thinking, analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of the concepts of huma n flourishing and the human condition.

Essay Prompt 1:

Define and explain the concept of "human flourishing." Discuss the factors that contribute to human flourishing and how they differ across cultures and
societies. In your essay, reflect on the role of education, healthcare, economic conditions, and social support systems in promoting human flourishing.
Provide specific examples to support your arguments.

Essay Prompt 2:
Analyze the relationship between happiness and human flourishing. Can a person experience human flourishing without being happy? Discuss the
potential conflicts between individual happiness and the greater good of society when considering human flourishing. Explore philosophical
perspectives on happiness and its role in enhancing the human condition.

Essay Prompt 3:
Explore the impact of technology on human flourishing and the human condition. Discuss the positive and negative effects of t echnological
advancements on various aspects of human life, such as communication, work, education, and relationships. Consider ethical implications related to
privacy, social isolation, and the potential for technology to enhance or hinder human flourishing.

Essay Prompt 4:

Examine the influence of culture and societal norms on the perception and pursuit of human flourishing. Discuss how cultural values, beliefs, and
traditions shape individuals' understanding of what it means to flourish. Analyze the challenges faced by individuals who see k to flourish but encounter
resistance from societal expectations. Provide examples from different cultural contexts to support your arguments.

GOOD LIFE

Instructions: Choose two (2) out of the five (5) essay prompts below and write a well-structured essay for each prompt. Each essay should be
approximately 300 to 600 words in length. Support your arguments with relevant examples, evidence, and references. Demonstrate critical thin king,
analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of the concept of the "good life."

Essay Prompt 1:

Define what the "good life" means to you. Discuss the key components and characteristics that contribute to a fulfilling and meaningful life. Explain
how your personal values, beliefs, and experiences shape your perception of the good life. Reflect on whether your definition aligns with any
philosophical or cultural perspectives on the concept.

Essay Prompt 2:

Explore the relationship between happiness and the good life. Can a person lead a good life without being happy all the time? Discuss the complexities
of defining happiness and how it relates to overall life satisfaction and well-being. Consider the role of external factors, such as wealth, social
relationships, and personal accomplishments, in achieving happiness and the good life.

Essay Prompt 3:

Examine the ethical dimensions of the good life. Discuss the importance of moral values and ethical decision -making in living a good life. Consider
potential conflicts between personal desires and moral obligations when pursuing a good life. Reflect on how ethical considerations can vary across
cultures and societies.

Essay Prompt 4:
Analyze the impact of materialism and consumerism on the pursuit of the good life. Discuss how societal values and norms related to wealth and
possessions influence individuals' perceptions of what constitutes a good life. Examine the potential consequences of priorit izing material wealth over
other aspects, such as relationships, health, and personal growth, in the pursuit of the good life.

Essay Prompt 5:

Discuss the role of resilience and adversity in shaping the good life. Explore how overcoming challenges and setbacks can con tribute to personal
growth and a deeper appreciation of life. Reflect on the ways individuals can cultivate resilience and cope with adversity to lead a more fulfilling life.

WHEN TECHNOLOGY & HUMANITY CROSS

Instructions: Choose two (2) out of the five (5) essay prompts below and write a well-structured essay for each prompt. Each essay should be
approximately 300 to 600 words in length. Support your arguments with relevant examples, evidence, and references. Demonstrate critical thin king,
analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between technology and human ity.

Essay Prompt 1:

Discuss the impact of technological advancements on human communication and relationships. How has technology influenced the way we interact
with each other? Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of modern communication tools, such as social media, instant me ssaging, and video
conferencing. Reflect on the importance of maintaining genuine human connections in a technology -driven world.
Essay Prompt 2:
Examine the ethical implications of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), genetic engineering, and biotechnology. How do these
advancements challenge traditional ethical frameworks? Discuss the responsibility of scientists, engineers, and policymakers in ensuring that
technology is used for the betterment of humanity while minimizing potential risks and harm.

Essay Prompt 3:
Explore the impact of automation and digitization on the workforce and the economy. How do technological innovations like rob otics and automation
affect employment opportunities and job security? Discuss the potential role of education and retraining programs in preparing individuals for the
changing job landscape in a technology-dominated era.

Essay Prompt 4:

Analyze the relationship between technology and mental health. How does excessive use of technology, such as sm artphones and social media, affect
mental well-being? Discuss the phenomenon of digital addiction and its consequences on human psychology. Explore potential strategies and
interventions to promote a healthy balance between technology use and mental health .

Essay Prompt 5:

Reflect on the concept of transhumanism and its implications for the future of humanity. What are the goals and aspirations o f transhumanism, and
how does it envision the integration of technology and biology? Discuss the potential benefits and risks of human enhancement technologies, such as
brain-computer interfaces and genetic modifications. Consider the societal, ethical, and philosophical questions raised by the tran shumanist movement.

GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISM (GMO’s)

Instructions: Choose two (2) out of the five (5) essay prompts below and write a well-structured essay for each prompt. Each essay should be
approximately 300 to 600 words in length. Support your arguments with relevant examples, evidence, and references. Demonstrate critical thin king,
analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their impact on agriculture, the environment, and
human health.

Essay Prompt 1:

Discuss the science behind genetically modified organisms (GMOs). How are they created, and wh at is the role of genetic engineering in their
development? Explore the various genetic modifications commonly made to crops and agricultural products. Analyze the potential benefits of GMOs
in terms of increased crop yields, resistance to pests and diseases, and enhanced nutritional content.

Essay Prompt 2:

Examine the environmental impact of genetically modified crops. What are the ecological risks associated with the cultivation of GMOs? Discuss the
concept of gene flow and the potential for transgenic crops to spread their genes to wild relatives. Evaluate the effectiveness of coexistence measures
to prevent cross-contamination between GMOs and non-GMO crops.

Essay Prompt 3:
Critically assess the controversies surrounding genetically modified organisms. What are the main arguments raised by both proponents and opponents
of GMOs? Analyze the ethical, social, and economic considerations related to the widespread adoption of genetically modified crops. Discuss the role
of government regulations and public perception in shaping the future of GMO agriculture.

Essay Prompt 4:
Investigate the safety of genetically modified organisms for human consumption. What scientific studies have been conducted t o evaluate the health
effects of GMOs? Analyze the potential allergenicity and toxicity concerns associated with genetically modified foods. Discuss the labeling requirements
and public awareness regarding GMO products in different countries.

Essay Prompt 5:

Explore the role of genetically modified organisms in addressing global food security challenges. How can GMOs contribute to feeding the growing
global population? Discuss the potential for drought-resistant, disease-resistant, and nutrient-enriched crops to improve food availability and nutrition
in developing countries. Analyze the social and economic implications of using GMOs as a tool for food security.
NANOTECHNOLOGY &GENE THERAPHY
Instructions: Choose one (1) out of the five (5) essay prompts below and write a well-structured essay for each prompt. Each essay should be
approximately 300 to 600 words in length. Support your arguments with relevant examples, evidence, and references. Demonstrate critical think ing,
analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and their impact on agriculture , the environment, and
human health.

Essay Prompt 1:

Discuss the science behind genetically modified organisms (GMOs). How are they created, and what is the role of genetic engin eering in their
development? Explore the various genetic modifications commonly made to crops and agricultural products. Analyze th e potential benefits of GMOs
in terms of increased crop yields, resistance to pests and diseases, and enhanced nutritional content.

Essay Prompt 2:

Examine the environmental impact of genetically modified crops. What are the ecological risks associated with the cultivation of GMOs? Discuss the
concept of gene flow and the potential for transgenic crops to spread their genes to wild relatives. Evaluate the effectivene ss of coexistence measures
to prevent cross-contamination between GMOs and non-GMO crops.

Essay Prompt 3:

Critically assess the controversies surrounding genetically modified organisms. What are the main arguments raised by both pr oponents and opponents
of GMOs? Analyze the ethical, social, and economic considerations related to the widespread adoption of genetically modified crops. Discuss the role
of government regulations and public perception in shaping the future of GMO agriculture.

Essay Prompt 4:

Investigate the safety of genetically modified organisms for human consumption. What scientific studies have been conducted to evaluate the health
effects of GMOs? Analyze the potential allergenicity and toxicity concerns associated with genetically modified foods. Discus s the labeling requirements
and public awareness regarding GMO products in different countries.

Essay Prompt 5:

Explore the role of genetically modified organisms in addressing global food security challenges. How can GMOs contribute to feeding the growing
global population? Discuss the potential for drought-resistant, disease-resistant, and nutrient-enriched crops to improve food availability and nutrition
in developing countries. Analyze the social and economic implications of using GMOs as a tool for food security.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS & SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY

Instructions: Choose one (1) out of the five (5) essay prompts below and write a well-structured essay for each prompt. Each essay should be
approximately 300 to 600 words in length. Support your arguments with relevant examples, evidence, and references. Demonstrate critical thinking,
analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of environmental issues and their relationship with science, technology, and society.

Essay Prompt 1:
Discuss the role of science and technology in addressing environmental challenges. How has technological advancement contributed to both
environmental problems and solutions? Provide specific examples of scientific innovations that have had a positive impact on the environment.
Conversely, explore instances where technology has caused environmental harm and discuss possible mitigation strategies.

Essay Prompt 2:
Examine the concept of sustainable development and its significance in the context of environmental conservation. What are th e key principles of
sustainable development, and how do they address the balance between economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection? Analyze real-
world initiatives that promote sustainable practices and discuss their effectiveness in addressing environmental concerns.

Essay Prompt 3:

Evaluate the relationship between industrialization and environmental degradation. How has rapid industrial growth contribute d to pollution, climate
change, and resource depletion? Discuss the historical perspective of industrialization and its impact on the environment. Explore the role of
governmental policies and international agreements in regulating industrial activities to minimize environmental harm.
Essay Prompt 4:
Analyze the social and ethical dimensions of environmental concerns. How do environmental issues disproportionately affect marginalized communities
and vulnerable populations? Discuss the concept of environmental justice and its importance in achieving equitable solutions to environmental
problems. Explore the responsibility of individuals and society in promoting environmental sustainability and combating climate change.

Essay Prompt 5:
Examine the influence of consumerism and technology on environmental sustainability. How does consumer behavior, driven by te chnological
advancements and advertising, impact the environment? Discuss the concept of planned obsolescence and its implications for waste ge neration.
Analyze the role of businesses and policymakers in promoting sustainable consumption and production patterns.

-GOD BLESS! -