S&T and Nation Building

Science, Technology, and Society

Instructor: HUSHLEY R. RENONCourse Focus: Science, Technology, and Nation Building

Historical Overview of Science and Technology in the Philippines

Pre-colonial Period (50,000 years ago)

• Indigenous knowledge of nature/environment was crucial for survival, leading to the development of sustainable agriculture.

• Expertise in herbal medicine, with many traditional practices still influencing contemporary health approaches.

• Established systems of writing (like Baybayin), which facilitated communication and record-keeping, as well as counting and measuring for trade and agriculture.

• The barter trade system was prominent, involving the exchange of goods such as ornaments, seashells, and food items, highlighting a strong economic network among communities.

• Societies were adept at crafting tools and vessels, indicating an understanding of material properties and production techniques.

• Cultural rituals and practices often intertwined with environmental knowledge, reflecting a holistic understanding of life and the natural world.

Spanish Regime

• Introduction of Christianity and formal education systems, significantly changing the cultural landscape.

• Establishment of educational institutions like the Colegio de San Ildefonso and Ateneo de Manila, promoting European-style education but often limited to elite classes.

• Curriculum centered around Catholic teachings, philosophy, and basic sciences, yet overshadowed traditional knowledge and practices.

• Government and religious oversight were prevalent in education, limiting academic freedom and the inclusion of local knowledge systems.

First Republic (1898-1900)

• While there was minimal advancement in science and technology during this period, the establishment of a secular education system marked a significant shift towards local governance and self-expression in education.

• Attempts were made to include more progressive educational approaches that emphasized civic responsibilities and local histories.

American Regime

• Characterized by rapid advancement in science and technology, largely influenced by American education models.

• Establishment of major universities, such as the University of the Philippines, and various scholarship programs to promote higher education.

• Development of public research institutions that focused on agricultural science, health, and engineering, reflecting the needs of societal advancement.

• Introduction of vocational training programs aimed at improving skills for various trades and industries, fostering economic growth and modern development.

Commonwealth Period

• Increased government support for scientific research and education, paving the way for advancements in public health, agriculture, and engineering.

• Expansion of the public school system provided broader access to education for a growing population, promoting literacy and professional development across various sectors.

Japanese Regime

• A significant halt in educational and scientific activities due to the impact of World War II, with many institutions being repurposed for military use.

• The period was marked by a focus on survival and resilience amidst wartime hardships, leading to a reliance on traditional methods and practices for sustenance.

Independence

• Post-independence marked a continuation of scientific research, notably with the growth of the University of the Philippines System and other educational institutions aiming to rebuild and modernize the academic landscape.

• Focus on self-sufficiency and the development of local technologies to address specific national challenges, promoting innovation rooted in local context.

Selected Indigenous Science and Technologies

Medical Care and Health Practices

• Traditional self-medication practices, such as the use of Chinese herbal oils, reflect cultural amalgamation in health practices.

• Utilization of local healers and herbal remedies demonstrates the value placed on indigenous knowledge.

Food Preservation Techniques

• Techniques like salting and drying (e.g., bagoong—fermented fish sauce) are traditional methods still used for long-term food storage.

• Use of fats for preservation (e.g., dinuguan—pork blood stew) illustrates culinary traditions intertwined with survival tactics.

Farming Practices

• Swidden farming (uma) showcases traditional agroforestry methods that sustain local ecosystems while providing food.

• Seed preservation methods (e.g., air-drying, mixing with charcoal) reflect a sophisticated understanding of agriculture and biodiversity.

Energy Production

• Charcoal burning methods for cooking and heating (e.g., ham-ak method for making charcoal) indicate resourcefulness and adaptation to local environments.

Arts and Crafts

• Weaving techniques producing traditional crafts (e.g., piña cloth, baskets) highlight the artistic skills of local artisans.

• Jewelry making from precious metals and stones holds cultural significance and economic value.

• Pottery skills include creating geometric designs and traditional vessels for daily use.

• Wood carving and sculpture demonstrate cultural significance, capturing the essence of local beliefs and stories.

• Tattooing represents a form of cultural expression particularly among Cordillera warriors, often symbolizing status and achievements.

Burial Practices

• Ibaloi mummification techniques and coffin design patterns reflect deep cultural beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife.