MARIEL JANE A.

GILLADO

BSCPE 1-5
 “The Magician's Twin: C.S. Lewis and the Case
Against Scientism”
Upon reflecting on "The Magician's Twin: C.S. Lewis and the Case Against Scientism," I
have gained the perspective that the advancements in science and technology have
caused a significant issue in our modern world. Lewis's argument emphasizes the
importance of retaining a comprehensive perspective on scientific development,
recognizing both its potential benefits and its inherent limitations. The author's
examination of the similarities between science and magic, about their capacity to evoke
wonder, and their propensity to function as systems of belief, prompts us to critically
assess how scientific knowledge is comprehended and utilized in our society. As a college
student contemplating the film that explores C.S. Lewis's perspectives on science and
technology, including his criticism of scientism, I have gained numerous significant
insights. I strongly empathize with Lewis's cautionary stance against scientism,
emphasizing the significance of upholding a nuanced comprehension of science's
impact on human existence.

Lewis's contrast between science and magic emphasizes their potential to serve as
religions, providing a sense of significance and magnificence. This similarity compels me
to contemplate how our society frequently exhibits unwavering trust in scientific assertions
without subjecting them to rigorous scrutiny, similar to the unquestioned acceptance of
magical rituals. That is another aspect that I recognize. I observed the phenomenon of
certain individuals being unable to see beyond the confines of scientific knowledge.
Science permeates every aspect of their surroundings, to the extent that their existence is
inseparable from its reliance. I have also come to recognize the extent to which science
and technology have exerted dominance over our lives. Hence, several individuals are
unable to proceed with their everyday routines without the assistance of technology. We
are highly susceptible to the influence of scientific and technological stimuli, which can
make us prone to gullibility. In addition to inducing laziness due to our excessive reliance
on them. The excessive use of technology becomes a source of distraction and abuse,
ultimately causing harm to our lives. In addition, Lewis's criticism of the pursuit of power in
contemporary science creates significant ethical concerns. As aspiring intellectuals, we
must confront the obligation associated with scientific progress and guarantee that it is
employed for the growth of humanity rather than for individual profit or domination over
others. Moreover, Lewis's pessimism regarding unguided evolution encourages me to
thoroughly evaluate scientific hypotheses and acknowledge their constraints. This
compels me to approach scientific knowledge with a prudent amount of skepticism,
acknowledging that our comprehension of the natural world is continually progressing
and susceptible to modification.

In general, I concur with C.S. Lewis' viewpoint that it is necessary to impose

restrictions on the application of scientific knowledge. Thus, it exerts a significant mental
toll as curiosity is an inherent aspect of the human mind. They have a propensity to
generate detrimental effects in our everyday existence. Instances of such actions include
the militarization of infectious diseases, the development of nuclear armaments, the
creation of biological weapons, and the utilization of chemical warfare. Each nation's
development of weaponry is a scientific endeavor that inflicts harm upon people globally,
leading to warfare and the destruction of our habitat. As aspiring leaders and intellectuals,
we must engage in deliberate contemplation regarding the consequences of scientific
progress and make a conscious effort to defend moral values in our quest for
understanding.
 “The Village of the Watermills”
In Akira Kurosawa's thought-provoking scene "Village of the Watermills" from "Dreams," the rich
symbolism and spectacular images encourage meditation on the numerous perspectives that
shape our world. Every individual in our world contributes their unique beliefs, habits, and behaviors
to the fabric of humanity, just as the majestic watermills in the film do. While some argue that
innovation and change are essential for survival, others advocate for the preservation of customs
and the natural environment. The "Village of the Watermills" represents "simplicity," as people rely on
and are content with what nature has to provide. "The Village of Watermills demonstrates how living
in the modern world does not guarantee happiness."As the old man in the film explains,
convenience becomes entrenched in individuals. Most people today prioritize simplicity over all else,
eliminating useful items. Although technology has enriched our lives, it has also separated humanity
from the environment. The short film demonstrates that the things we can't live without, such as
nature, are very magnificent, even if we tend to take them for granted and overlook them. It stands
to reason that we would want to enhance our relationships with the things we should value to live a
healthy life. The film acknowledges that our lifestyle is damaging, leading individuals to misjudge
what pleasure and a good life are. The village elder goes on to say that they use lamps and oils of
light as bright as the day instead of batteries at night because he does not want a night so bright
that he cannot see the stars.I used to spend a lot of time alone in my room with my laptop and
phone. Modernization has purportedly made life easier, but it has also introduced distractions,
eliminated necessities, and disguised natural beauty that many people overlook. Natural resources
are crucial for the village's citizens' daily lives. People do not want to harm the environment by
cutting down trees that fall naturally and can be used for fires. Our lives are more important than
money or technology, so we only need what is necessary.

Technology has the power to cause and mitigate environmental damage. Because people are
constantly striving for a better tomorrow, we wish to investigate and develop novel technologies.
Civilization has progressed significantly over time. We've come a long way from a nomadic lifestyle
to one based mainly on technology, and we want to go even further. The old man's simple but wise
statement made me pause and reflect on how humans have lived. Before the Industrial Revolution
and the advancement of agricultural technology, life revolved around survival and the food search. I
can only picture how clean the air was back then, how clear and potable the water wherever it
flowed, how bright the sky was during the day, how the stars twinkled at night, and how fertile the
land was, with plants and trees growing vigorously and tall. Humans living at the time were fortunate
to be able to breathe clean air, drink clean water, and gaze up at a night sky filled with brightly
flashing stars. It is natural for humans to progress and improve their thinking. However, as humans
advanced, creating technology to improve our lives and inventing machines and industries, we
failed to see how much harm we were causing the earth. We had no idea our world was in upheaval
and on the verge of annihilation. We enhanced living conditions but failed to protect the
environment. We are plagued by terrible pollution and the obvious menace of global warming.
Furthermore, we cannot definitively conclude that the concepts and technology we developed
endangered the environment.

In general, I have discovered that humans have an excessive preoccupation with convenience,
often failing to recognize the adverse effects it can have on both ourselves and the environment. We
engage in the process of discovering, inventing, and creating goods that offer enhanced
convenience for our lives. However, after watching this film, I have come to realize that I am unable to
adapt to such a lifestyle due to my need for technology. However, I appreciate their efforts in
maintaining and safeguarding their culture and environment. They are unequivocally the protectors
of the natural world. However, as contemporary individuals, we must prioritize the preservation and
appreciation of nature for the benefit of future generations. Our minds are already conditioned to
perceive convenience as superior and to view life as a transient experience where we often act as if
there is no future. We disregarded what is genuinely beneficial, simply favoring those who get
advantages. Nevertheless, it is the forest, beaches, mountains, caverns, environment, air, and
animals that bear the cost of our affluent lifestyle. Moreover, given the fleeting nature of time, we
must prioritize our true desires to lead a wholesome existence. The film serves as a cautionary tale,
imparting the message that we must not depend on and develop an excessive attachment to
technology. To get the calm that is rightfully ours, it is imperative that we promptly take action, as the
uncertainty of our future looms over us.
 In your terms what is a Quality Life in our modern
society?
To put it simply, "quality of life" refers to how one may afford contemporary
commodities, education, and many chances in our contemporary society. This
is true for everyone, rich or poor. If you are happy, successful, and have a lot of
money, you can buy the things you need and want. You can pay for college if
someone is ready to give you money at this point in your life. I think that having
things and being financially comfortable are not the only things that make up a
good life in today's world. This means being able to do what you love, make the
world a better place, and follow your dreams and interests. To be truly
prosperous, you need more than just a lot of money. You also need to have had
a lot of great experiences and formed strong bonds with other people. It's very
important to get an education, whether you can pay for it or get help from
teachers and leaders. It will make your life better. If people have correct
knowledge, they can learn new things, reach their full potential, and make
choices that will affect their lives. It is a beacon of hope that points the way to
chances and personal growth. Along the way, the help we get from other
people, whether it's advice, support, or acts of kindness, shapes our lives and
their views on them. Having caring and helpful people in our lives helps us get
through the bad times, enjoy the good ones, and finally find happiness and
fulfillment. It's not how many friends or family we have, how long our memories
are, or how strong our hearts are that shows how good our life is. It's not the
things we get on this trip that matter, but the love, information, and laughter we
leave behind.

List a few modern Common Goods you know and

explain why they are Common Goods.

1. Internet.
The Internet has become a common good since it serves as the central hub
for all communication, information exchange, online education, and
entertainment. Because of their accessibility and usability, we may employ
multiple platforms to assist us in our daily lives.
2. Healthcare services.
Healthcare services, such as medical treatment, preventive care, and
emergency aid, are seen as common goods that improve society's overall
health and well-being. Healthcare that is both accessible and affordable
ensures that everyone has access to the medical care and support they
require.
3. Public infrastructure.
Roads, bridges, and utilities (electricity, gas, and telecommunications) are shared
goods that enable towns to grow economically, move about, and communicate.
They offer transportation, commerce, and communication, enabling the social and
economic transactions required for civilization to thrive and prosper.
4. Education
Education is often regarded as a public benefit, essential for individual and societal
development. Public education systems ensure equal access to high-quality
education regardless of socioeconomic status, creating equitable opportunities for
learning and personal growth.It promotes considerable progress by encouraging
all young people to pursue their dreams and passions, resulting in a more
progressive society.
5. Clean water and sanitation
Clean water and sanitation services are critical components for public health and
well-being. Access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities
reduces waterborne diseases and promotes hygiene, benefiting entire
communities.
6. Public transportation
Public transportation systems, such as buses, trains, and subways, are common
commodities that provide critical mobility to both urban and rural communities.
They provide cost-effective and easily accessible modes of transportation,
reducing traffic congestion, pollution, and dependency on personal vehicles.
7. Public libraries
Public libraries are shared assets that offer free access to a wide variety of
educational resources, including books, digital media, and educational programs.
They serve as community learning, research, and cultural enrichment centers,
giving people of all ages and backgrounds equitable access to knowledge and
information.
8. Emergency Services
Emergency services, such as police, fire, and ambulance, are common
commodities that provide public safety and security. They respond rapidly to
emergencies such as accidents, natural disasters, and criminal activity, defending
people and property in their communities.
9. Environmental conservation efforts.
Environmental conservation efforts, such as protected areas, animal reserves, and
conservation initiatives, are common goods that preserve biodiversity, ecosystems,
and natural resources for future generations. They promote sustainable
development and environmental stewardship, addressing global challenges
including climate change and habitat loss.

10. Public safety and security systems

Public safety and security systems include a variety of services and activities
designed to protect communities from crime, violence, and threats to public order.
These include law enforcement, community policing programs, catastrophe
planning and response activities, and crime prevention projects. Public safety and
security systems are shared goods that promote peace, stability, and social
cohesiveness in society, allowing people to live and work in safe conditions. They
rely on collaborative efforts and resources to address and minimize risks, safeguard
individual rights, and maintain the rule of law for the benefit of all members of
society.