Science and Technology - Essay Example

The internet is a technological utopia for some people while for others it has turned out to be nightmare. The correlation existing between technology and science has been viewed to have just one goal, to help improve the society. The new 21st century is however proving that technology somehow is outgrowing its niche. The society currently is asking itself: Precisely how extreme is too extreme? Medical experts find the question very hard to answer. There are of course people like myself who are stuck in between and are not certain which side is wrong and which one is right. There are so many technological and scientific advancements that make spotting the negatives hard. We all know that anything good has to also have its setbacks too. Science and technology Science and technology constitutes the most controversial topics in the society that are often debated about. Technological and scientific developments have been questioned on whether they cause hassle or if they affect the life styles of many people. Most people, however, believe that science and technology has enhanced their lives and the general welfare of mankind. Science and technology have distinct definitions, although they are closely related. Science refers to a systematic enterprise that enhances building and organization of knowledge in the forms of testable explanations and predictions concerning the universe. Science is the body of knowledge in itself, which can be rationally explained and reliably applied. Technology, on the other hand, encompasses the collection of tools, machinery, procedures, arrangements, and modifications used by human beings to enhance productivity. Thus, it is critical to comprehend the relationship between science and technology and identify their effects on humanity. Computerization, medical advancements and inventions such as the light bulb are examples of the benefits surrounding the use of science and technology. All of the above cases have a positive impact on the life styles of most people. The revolutions marked a new technological era that could firmly support a nation and its economy (Rowell 60). Scholars noted that the past century has witnessed much beneficial advancement that show how far we have been able to advance. Technological and scientific developments like medical research for purpose of finding a HIV cure computerization and modern health care aim at improving the lives of people. Science and technology obviously differentiates us from the ancient cave dwellers. It has a huge impact on our mindset on issues of energy and material usage. The origin of science and technology lies in the advancement of the human brain and the inherent sense of curiosity that exists in human beings to know, understand and explore mother earth (Nedeva 215). Historically, science began way back when a civilized existence began emerging. Science and technology has therefore, been embedded in the society for a long time but, its revolution has been a constant learning process. The process relied on experiences encountered each and every day thus becoming the body of knowledge where understanding and applications grew from. There is a saying which claims that the only way to rule nature is by obeying it. Human beings had to learn the rules of nature to widen their understanding and perspective of the world. In general science and technology was like a means of fighting biological and physical calamities that befell mankind in their daily life. Knowledge advancement also resulted in a corresponding increase of power that was broken down into technology. Felt needs all through history were felt to be the major boosters of scientific advancements, however, a few scientific and technological accomplishments were not noted that were not felt needs. The accomplishments were motivated by the desire to understand and know nature. The process at times faced a lot of drawbacks such as conflicts with institutions that wielded state or religious power. An example of such a conflict was when Galileo was prosecuted due to conflict that erupted due to the adaptation of the controversial hellion centric concept of Copernicus. The Darwinian theory of evolution is another example of a conflict that occurred. In most cases the conflicts implicated individual scientists versus state or religious powers (Winston 105). Some religious and political institutions claimed that the theories violated moral and ethical values, a principle that was irreverent in the field of science and technology. A new aspect that has raised the eyebrows of the scientific community and individual scientists in general is that of the interrelation that exists between weapons of mass destruction and science. The fact that scientists and technology experts can be military consultants or makers of war machines is not a surprising topic as it has a lengthy and honorable history. Leonardo da Vinci a renowned genius in the field of creative arts was also a great military scientist. His letter written to the Duke of Milan where he was working addressed extensively the invention of gears of wars (Shelley 50). It was only at the end of the letter that Leonardo cited his skills as a painter, sculptor and architect which would turn out to be useful when peace was an essential need. He released that time would come when he needed to be an active game changer in military work. He was also aware that his inventions might be used for reasons that were originally not stated or those that would not impress him. He therefore, opposed the creation of weapons of mass destruction for exploitation and conquest purposes. Leonardo’s worry is also the current concern the scientific community is worried about. There is the need to create war weapons for keeping peace but, there is the general of fear of their abuse. Individuals should learn that the process of developing weapons systems is a step function based technology. These are never primarily conceived by the military or politicians they are as a result of tedious and lengthy research efforts conducted by technologists and scientist. Once the military, industrial and political decision makers realize feasibility exists they proceed further. At times blaming an individual scientist or technologist who works in a firm that basically deals with defense instead of civilian enterprise are difficult. On a professional base the jobs are not very different to the scientist (Rowell 65). The huge difference surfaces at the top levels of system and design integration. There is a commonality between defense missile systems and space launcher systems but,a difference also exists. It is clear that science and technology has offered enormous abilities to create horrific war tools however, the ultimate results lay within the hands of the whole community. The issues were given a lot of attention especially after the making of an atomic bomb in Manhattan that was used in Hiroshima and Nagasaki (Winston 102). The social conscience that was dealing with science was woken up in a collective way. The prophetic statements made in the scandalous Frank- report together with the Russell Einstein Philosophy exemplified the social conscience. A number of people feel that the ills affecting the human society were as a result of the scientific and technological advances made at a rapid pace (Fisher 75). They also point out the possibility of having anuclear war that might wipe out humanity.Science and technology advancement has generally been linked with problems such as the changing of the ozone layer, environmental degradation, climate change, depletion and nuclear science. In the sector of nuclear science there is a huge concern on stockpiling and development of nuclear weapons on large scale production. The prominence of the environment is under mined by nuclear science. Ozone depletion refers to a situation where there is a green- house effect that may result in climate change and also consequent hazards such as loss of bio diversity. Information technology is another area where people have a lot of questions as it has the capability to link every individual on earth with each other. It also seems dedicated to help diverse fields like health, food production, industry and energy. Thereare fears and concerns however, surrounding societal implications (Winston 100). Lastly the field of biotechnology that usually majors in cell biology and genetic engineering also has been embraced with mixed reactions due to its relation with human cloning and eugenics. Technology seems to be progressing at a surprisingly rapid rhythmand at times changing lives in a scary manner. In future critics point out more changes might be felt both positive and negative some being severe dangers on human beings and one extreme levels mankind might be extinct. Some researchers even revel that technology and science are to blame for some of the problems that human beings cannot find answers to. They include the advancement of biochemical, weapons, nuclear weapons and bombs which have brought violence enmity among us (Fisher 80). Another problem is the rate at which human beings are depending on technology like cell phones, computers and the internet. Yet pollution seems to be another huge problem, the types of pollution that dominate are noise, water and air pollution. Science and technology in the next millennium will also advance rapidly and it is therefore, advisable to ensure that the advances help the whole humanity. Parochial perceptions of nationalism, commercial interests, inflexible ideologies and crucial religious aspects need to respect the basic ethics surrounding human rights and human dignity. Nuclear energy seems to be the biggest concern for many nations since its mare disposal or radioactive wastes can be hazardous, leave alone atomic bombs. Generally, however, modern technologies and scientific inventions have recorded tremendous positive effects by totally changing the human life giving way for a more comfortable future. The advancement is also accompanied by increased material comfort that automatically increased the tempo of life.There is a perception that machines are essential in our lives and their positive advantages outweigh their negative disadvantages. Human beings should sparingly apply technology in order to minimize adversities and benefit from its advantages. Works cited Bishop, J. Michael. Enemies of Promise. The Presence of Others. Journal of the religious relations and development. 20.5(2011):99-106.Print. Fisher, Arthur. The effects of science and technology. New York: Penguin, 2010.Print. Fisher, Arthur. The effects of science and technology. New York: Penguin, 2010.Print. Nedeva Maria, “The story of science”, Journal of Science Technology and Society. 55.8(2010): 200-250.Print. Nedeva Maria, “The story of science”, Journal of Science Technology and Society. 55.8(2010): 200-250.Print. Rowell, Andy, “Safe Science is not always Good Science, Journal of the internal guardian. 77(2009): 55-78.Print. Rowell, Andy, “Safe Science is not always Good Science, Journal of the internal guardian. 77(2009): 55-78.Print. Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. The Duke of Milan .Journal of Leonardo da Vinci in military science.19.9 (2010). 37-66. Print. Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein. The Duke of Milan. Journal of Leonardo da Vinci in military science. 19.9(2010). 37-66.Print. Winston, Michael. Enemies of Promise. The Presence of Others. Journal of the religious relations and development. 20.5(2011):99-106.Print. Read More