of Science, Technology, and Society (STSN01A)

LESSON 4

Pre-Discussion Activity

Lesson Objectives

  • Analyze the human condition and its societal implications.

  • Critique the relationship between human flourishing and scientific/technological progress.

  • Examine societal issues and propose innovative solutions using ethical frameworks.

Understanding the Human Condition

  • Involves universal experiences like happiness, sadness, decision-making, and the quest for freedom.

Philosophical Perspectives

  1. Existentialism:

    • Creation of meaning through choices (e.g., Sartre, Frankl).

    • Individual responsibility in scientific progression and ethical usage of technology.

  2. Humanism:

    • Focus on well-being through fairness and kindness (e.g., Maslow's hierarchy).

Science and Technology's Role

  • Development of medicines and vaccines for health improvement.

  • Innovations for environmental protection, energy solutions, and daily conveniences.

Social Philosophy

  • John Rawls’ Theory of Justice:

    • Justice implies fairness and equality in societal treatment.

  • Link of social philosophy with science and ethical consideration of innovations.

Human Flourishing

  • Definition: Living a meaningful life, pursuing happiness and self-actualization.

  • Aristotle's Eudaimonia:

    • Fulfillment involves moral excellence, wisdom, and authenticity.

Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach

  • Emphasis on individual freedoms and opportunities rather than economic indicators.

  • Distinction between functionings (what people do) and capabilities (freedoms to achieve functionings).

Science in Society

  • Balancing resource use and environmental health.

  • Transparency and ethical responsibilities in scientific work.

Challenges with Technology

  • AI Ethics: Issues of bias, job displacement, and privacy concerns.

  • Environmental Degradation: Climate change, pollution, and resource depletion.

  • Digital Divide: Unequal access to technology affecting opportunities.

Moving Forward

  • Need for ethical AI, sustainable innovation, and digital inclusivity.

  • Importance of interdisciplinary communication in tech development.

The Good Life

  • Defined by happiness, social justice, and equitable access to resources.

  • Relationship between individual well-being and societal fairness.

Pathways to Social Justice

  • Examples: 4Ps program, K-12 program, protection of indigenous peoples.

  • Challenges in implementation: corruption, limited access, and systemic issues.

Concise Summary of Science, Technology, and Society (STSN01A)

LESSON#5

  • Key Terminologies

    • Dilemma: A difficult choice between multiple alternatives.

    • Contemporary: Existing or occurring at the same time.

  • Understanding Human Rights in Technology

    • Human Rights: Basic freedoms and protections applicable to all.

    • Technology can either help prevent conflicts or contribute to rights abuses.

  • Right to Privacy:

    • Keeps personal information secure without unauthorized sharing.

    • Issues include data misuse by companies (e.g., Cambridge Analytica scandal).

  • Right to Freedom of Expression:

    • Enables sharing opinions, though some governments impose limitations.

    • Example: China's Great Firewall restricts access to certain platforms.

  • Right to Access Information:

    • Equal internet access essential for learning and knowledge.

    • Digital divide issues faced by underprivileged areas (e.g., pandemic school closures).

  • Right to Fair Treatment:

    • AI must treat individuals fairly without bias.

    • Example: Biased AI in hiring favoring male applicants.

  • Ethical Dilemmas in Technology:

    • Occur with challenging decisions lacking clear right or wrong.

  • AI and Bias:

    • AI's mistakes can lead to unfair treatment based on flawed data.

  • Data Privacy and Security:

    • Ethical obligation to protect user data from misuse and breaches.

  • Digital Divide:

    • Gap in access to technology affects education and employment opportunities.

  • Cybercrime vs. Ethical Hacking:

    • Unethical hackers exploit systems, while ethical hackers improve security.

  • Impact on Human Relationships:

    • Social media affects mental health, friendships, and family dynamics.

    • Overuse can lead to negative mental health outcomes, especially in teens.

  • Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering:

    • Gene editing raises ethical questions about designer babies and fairness.

  • Social Media's Role in Democracy:

    • Facilitates issue discussions but can spread misinformation influencing public opinion.

  • Strengthening Ethical Decision-Making in Technology:

    • Ethical decision-making involves respecting rights, fairness, and safety in tech developments.

  • Ethical Theories:

    • Frameworks like deontology (moral rules), utilitarianism (greatest good), and virtue ethics (personal character) guide decisions.

  • Role of Institutions:

    • Governments enact laws protecting digital rights and privacy (e.g., GDPR).

  • Individual Advocacy for Ethical Technology:

    • Users should adopt strong online security practices and support ethical tech companies.

  • Relevant Articles and Research:

    • Various articles discuss human rights, AI biases, technology ethics, and privacy regulations.