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STS
Science, Technology, and Society​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

ONE: INTRODUCTION TO SOCIETY

What is Sustainability?
What is your role in our society?
Why do you need to learn about the natural environment?
Why do you need to learn about the artificially-constructed environment?

What is STS?
●​ Interactions between science and technology and social, cultural, political, and economic contexts which shape
and are shaped by them; specific examples throughout human history of scientific and technological
developments. CHEd CMO 20 s. 2013.
●​ It is ubiquitous

STS Education (Aikenhead, 1994)

STS Educational Viewpoints

●​ Its prominence in the school science curriculum (Aikenhead, 2003).
●​ Ensure the development of a broad-based science curriculum, embedded in the cultural, socio-political
contexts in which it was formulates (Fensham, 1985).
●​ Students’ engagement with different perspectives on societal issues concerning the impact of science and
technology on everyday life (Fensham, 1988).

Paradigm of STS Teaching & Learning (Aikenhead, 1992)

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Paradigm of STS Teaching & Learning (Aikenhead, 1994)

Global Citizenship (GC) & Global Citizenship Education (GCED)

●​ GC described: “a sense of belonging to a broader community, beyond national boundaries, that emphasizes
our common humanity and draws on the interconnectedness between the local and the global, the national and
the international.” (UNESCO, 2014)
●​ GCED’s 4 pillars: “learning to know”, “learning to do”, “learning to be”, “learning to live together” (UNESCO,
1996)

GCED & Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) (UNESCO, 2013)

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Importance of STS

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STS as Part of Thomasian Identity

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Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations Member States

●​ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
●​ A shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet.
●​ An urgent call for action by all countries (developed and developing) in a global partnership.
●​ It is recognized that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve
health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and
working to preserve our oceans and forests.

Social Theories
●​ Some additional social theories that could intervene in the attainment of these goals:

Social Darwinism
●​ Is this related to Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution through natural selection?
●​ Social Darwinism suggests that societal advancement is driven by “survival of the fittest.” It proposes that the
most socially adept or powerful individuals or groups tend to succeed.
●​ The concept of Social Darwinism is based on ideas derived from Charles Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection.
Its purpose was to introduce natural selection principles into the study of human societies.

Social Exchange Theory

●​ What is social exchange theory, and how will you contextualize this concept to the Filipino culture?
●​ Social exchange theory postulates that people form a relationship through cost-benefit analysis.
●​ Attempts to explain the social factors that influence how individuals interact within a reciprocal relationship.

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Societal Cases to be resolved by STS (Examples)

●​ Shortage of sustainable water
●​ Illegal Wildlife Trade
●​ Science in the Philippines

Science, Technology and Society (STS)

Science (S)
●​ Includes natural, formal, and social sciences deeply embedded in our daily lives.
●​ Informs our understanding of earth’s natural processes and phenomena.
●​ Also unravels the complexitiees of human behavior, society, and culture, contributing to the way we live and
interact with our environment.

Technology (T)
●​ Systematic application of knowledge and tools to create and utilize systems, influencing and being influenced
by societal, economic, and cultural dynamics.
●​ Is an integral aspect of our daily existence, permeating and enhancing various facets of modern life, from
communication and work to entertainment and personal convenience.

Society (S)
●​ An ever-present backdrop to our daily lives, shaping our behaviours, interactions, and cultural norms as we
navigate relationships, work, and the broader systems that govern our communities.

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Science, Technology, and Society (STS)

●​ Exploring the Interplay of Science, Technology, and Society
●​ The interdisciplinary study of the relationships between science, technology and society.
●​ Explores how societal values, beliefs, and institutions shape scientific research and technological development.
●​ Aims to understand the impact of science and technology on society and vice versa.
●​ Through critical analysis and ethical reflection, STS aims to shape a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Historical Perspectives
●​ STS emerged in the late 1960s as a response to growing concerns about the social implications of scientific and
technological progress.
●​ Gained prominence in the 1970s with the focus on the social impacts of technology.
●​ The 1980s and 1990s saw the development of STS as a distinct academic discipline.
●​ Draws from sociology, history, philosophy, anthropology, and other disciplines.
●​ The field gained prominence with the rise of issues like nuclear power, environmentalism, and bioethics.

Key Concepts behind STS

Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) Theory
●​ Emphasizes that technology is not neutral but shaped by social factors. Exemplified by the bicycle where its
design, usage, and societal impact evolve through the interplay of technological features and social practices.

Technological Determinism Theory

●​ Argues that technology drives societal change. Suggests that the development and adoption of new
technologies inherently shape and influence the structure and dynamics of a society.

Actor-Network Theory (ANT)

●​ Focuses on the interconnectedness of actors (humans and non-humans) in shaping technology and society.

Relationship between Science and Society

●​ STS investigates the influence of societal values, beliefs, and norms on scientific research.
●​ STS examines how scientific knowledge is communicated, understood, and unaccepted by different social
groups.
●​ STS also explores the role of science in shaping public policy and decision-making processes.

Technology and Social Change

●​ STS explores how technological innovations impact social structures, relationships, and practices.
●​ STS investigates the social, cultural, and ethical implications of emerging technologies.
●​ STS also examines the role of technology in shaping power dynamics and inequalities in society.

Ethical Considerations in STS

●​ STS promotes ethical reflection on the development and use of science and technology.
●​ It encourages critical analysis of the potential risks and benefits associated with technological advancements.
●​ STS calls for the inclusion of diverse perspectives and values in decision-making processes.

Scope
●​ Examining the ethical, moral, and political dimensions of scientific and technological advancements.
●​ Analyzing the role of gender, race, and class in shaping scientific knowledge and technological innovation.
●​ Studying the social and cultural impact of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and biotechnology.

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Intended Learning Outcomes

1.​ Recognize the importance of the STS movement in promoting science literacy and environmental literacy
towards sustainability;
2.​ Analyze the relationships of science and technology with the local and global societies; and
3.​ Apply the scientific process in the learners’ everyday lives as global citizens.

Application
●​ Policy-making – STS provides insights for informed decision-making, considering societal implications of
scientific and technological developments.
●​ Innovation and Design – STS perspectives contribute to responsible and inclusive innovation and design
practices.
●​ Science Communication – understanding the sociocultural context helps in effective communication of
scientific information to the public.

Science Communication and Public Engagement

●​ STS emphasizes the importance of effective science communication to bridge the gap between scientists and
the public.
●​ STS examines the role of media, education, and public discourse in shaping public understanding of science
and technology.
●​ It also promotes public engagement in scientific decision-making to ensure democratic and informed societal
choices.

Career Opportunities
●​ STS offers diverse career paths, including academia, research, policy analysis, science communication, and
consulting.
●​ Graduates with STS background can work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector
companies.
●​ STS expertise is valuable in addressing complex societal issues related to science, technology and innovation.

Career Opportunities
●​ Science Policy Analysts – evaluate and develop policies related to scientific and technological advancements.
●​ Science Journalist – communicate complex scientific concepts to a broader audience.
●​ Ethicist – address ethical dilemmas arising from scientific and technological progress.

Not only Interdisciplinary, but Transdisciplinary

●​ STS goes beyond the mere combination of different disciplines by integrating perspectives, methodologies,
and insights from various fields to address complex societal issues, emphasizing collaboration and synthesis of
knowledge across traditional academic boundaries.

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Not only Interdisciplinary, but Transdisciplinary

●​ I / Intradisciplinary (single ingredient)
●​ Can / Crossdisciplinary (container of ingredients)
●​ Make / Multidisciplinary (mixed up salad)
●​ It / Interdisciplinary (intermingled stew)
●​ Tasty / Transdisciplinary (totally blended cake)

The SEAL of Thomasian Education

●​ The SEAL of thomasian Educaation of the University of Santo Tomas serves as a holistic framework fostering
student development through values formation, communicaty engagement, and leadership initiatives.
●​ Also emphasizes to the students the importance of the Thomasian core values of Competence, Commitment
and Compassion in the light of student leadership and selfless service.

Laudato Si’ Goals

●​ Laodato Si is Pope Francis’s enycyclical that calls for urgent environmental action, emphasizing the
interconnectedness of all life and urging a collective responsibility to care for our common home and address
the ecological crisis.

Sustainable Development Goals (Action Campaign)

●​ Represents a global agenda aiming to address and solve pressing socio-economi and environmental
challenges by promoting inclusive and sustainable development across the world.

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Global Citizenship
●​ A concept that encourages individuals to recognize their interconnectedness with the broader world, fostering
a sense of responsibility, empathy, and active participation in addressing global challenges and promoting
sustainable development.

Global Perspectives in STS

●​ STS recognizes the global interconnectedness of science, technology, and society.
●​ It investigates how different cultures and societies perceive and engage with science and technology.
●​ It highlights the need for inclusive and culturally sensitive approaches in addressing global challenges.

What we will be learning this term

●​ Evolution of Technology and the Human Revolution
●​ Science and Philosophy
●​ Analyzing Information
●​ What is Health?
●​ What is Biodiversity?
●​ Use and non-use values of Biodiversity
●​ Ecosystem services
●​ Environmental and Societal issues
●​ What is Sustainability?
●​ What is Development?
●​ How can we save the environment?
●​ Who are you, and what’s your role? Who am I?

^-^

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TWO: SCIENTIFIC REVOLUTION

●​ The first piece of technology used by our human ancestors is a piece of rock
●​ Homo habilis are the first to use stone tools, but, toolmaking began before any members of the Homo genus
walked the earth.
●​ Some examples of stone tools: Handaxe [multi-purpose tool], Hammerstone [blood tool], Stone core and flakes,
Burin [engraver], Bone needles [used for sewing], Katanda Bone Harpoon Point or Harpoon Tip

Technology
●​ Makes difficult and complicated tasks easier
●​ Method or activity to imply new ways to improve the everyday environment
●​ Implementation of scientific knowledge for the overall development of human life

Key Historical Transitions

●​ Paleolithic Period
●​ Neolithic Period
●​ Rise of Ancient Civilizations
●​ Industrialization Revolution
●​ The Anthropocene

Human Origins
●​ The Human Revolution refers to the remarkable and sudden emergence of language, consciousness and
culture in our species, Homo sapiens sapiens.
●​ Historians call the early period of human history as the Stone Age.
●​ First humans emerged from Africa and lived simultaneously with other hominid species.
●​ Large complex brains provided the capacity to make and use tools.

Out of Africa Theory

●​ The Recent African Origin Hypothesis or the Out of Africa hypothesis proposes that anatomically modern
humans originated in Africa, and, subsequently, spread across the globe, replacing other hominid population
such as Neanderthals.
●​ Homo sapiens emerged in Africa around 200,000 years ago
●​ Highlights that Africa is the primary source of modern ancestry and emphasizes the significance of migration
and population movements in shaping human evolution and dispersal.

Technological Advancements
●​ Developments are not just products of one time thought process.
●​ Brought about by gradual improvements to earlier works from different time periods.

Paleolithic Age (2.5 MYA - 8000 BC)

●​ The earliest part of this period was the Paleolithic Age or the Old Stone Age.
●​ The Paleolithic Age began about 2.5 million years ago and lasted until around 8000 B.C.
●​ Surviving the Paleolithic, Nomadic hunter-gatherers
●​ Paleolithic people hunted buffalo, bison, wild goats, reindeer, and other animals, depending on where they lived
●​ Paleolithic people survived by hunting and gathering.
●​ Gathered wild nuts, berries, fruits, wild grains, and green plants.
●​ Fished along rivers and coastal areas.
●​ Current research indicates that two-thirds of the energy was derived from animal sources.
●​ Paleo Diet (caveman diet) – heavy on protein and low in carbs
●​ Designation of tasks within groups. (Men - hunting; Women - gathering)
●​ Women stayed close to the camp, often close to a body of water.
●​ They looked after the children and searched nearby woods and meadows for berries, nuts, and grains.
●​ Everyone worked to find food.
●​ Some scientists believe that equity existed between Paleolithic men and women.
●​ This means that a man and a woman worked together to find food for themselves and their children, thus the
emergence of the first families.

First tools made by humans

●​ Technology tools and methods to perform tasks wer first used by Paleolithic people.
●​ By this time, sticks, stones, and tree branches served as tools.
●​ Later, people made devices from a hard stone called flint (hard, sedimentary crystalline form of the mineral
quartz)

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●​ Paleolithic people learned that by hitting flint with another hard stone, the flint would flake into pieces.
●​ These pieces had very sharp edges that could be used for cutting.
●​ Flint technology was a major breakthrough for early people.
●​ Over time, Paleolithic people made better, more complex tools. Spears, bows and arrows made killing large
animals easier.
●​ Spears and fish hooks increased the number of fish caught.
●​ Sharp-edged tools to cut up plants and dig roots.
●​ They used scraping tools to clean animal hides, which they used for clothing and shelter.
●​ By the end of the Paleolithic Age, people were making smaller and sharper tools.
●​ They crafted needles from animal bones to make nets and baskets and to sew hides together for clothing.

Paleolithic Age (2.5 MYA - 8000 BC)

●​ Paleolithic humans learned to make their own shelters.
●​ People constructed tents and huts of animal skins, brush, and wood.
●​ In very cold climates, some people made shelters from ice and snow.
●​ Many lived in caves.
●​ The first use of fire by humans is in the Paleolithic Age
○​ It brought warmth, cooked food, meat that was smoked by fire could be stored.
●​ Generating fire
○​ Certain stone, iron pyrite, gave off sparks when struck against another rock

Communication and Arts

●​ Development of spoken language
●​ The spoken language of the early people was constantly growing and changing
●​ Transfer of knowledge
●​ Cave paintings found all around the world.
●​ Crushed yellow, black, and red rocks and combined them with animal fat to make their paints.
●​ Used twigs and their fingertips to apply these paints to the rock walls.

Neolithic Period (10,200 BC and ending between 4500 and 2000 BC)
●​ First Agricultural Revolution
●​ The wide-scale transition from a lifestyle of hunting and gathering to one of agriculture and settlement.
●​ The Neolithic was a period in the development of human technology.

Neolithic Period (10,200 BC and ending between 4500 and 2000 BC)
Neolithic Society
●​ During the Neolithic age, people lived in small tribes composed of families.
●​ The domestication of large animals resulted in a dramatic increase in social inequality.
●​ Headed by a charismatic leader of tribal groups.

Neolithic Revolution (10,200 BC and ending between 4500 and 2000 BC)
●​ Reconstructed house of Nealithic Age [mukhang maliliit na huts]
○​ The growth of agriculture made permanent houses possible.
○​ Mud brick houses and stilt-houses settlements were also common.
●​ The clothing of the Neolithic humans were made of animal skin.
●​ Reliance upon the foods produced from cultivated lands.
●​ Encouraged the growth of settlements.
●​ Production of surplus crop yields.
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Growth of Agriculture
●​ Surpluses could be stored and traded.
●​ Agricultural life afforded securities.
●​ Sedimentary farming populations grew faster than nomadic.

Neolithic Technology
●​ An array of Neolithic artifacts, including bracelets, axe heads, chisels, and polishing tools.
●​ Neolithic stone artifacts are by definition polished.
●​ Skilled manufacturers of a range of other types of stone tools and ornaments, including projectile points, beads,
and statues.
●​ The polished stone axe allowed forest clearance in a large scale.

The Rise of Ancient Civilizations

●​ Emergence of science and technology and its diverse usage
●​ Transportation and navigation
●​ The evolution of communication
●​ Warfare, especially, in the creation or development of weapons and armor.
●​ Evolution of how wars are being conducted
●​ Developments in medicine, engineering, and architecture

Sumerians (4500 BCE to 1900 BCE)

●​ One of, if not, the oldest civilization known in history
●​ Emerged in the southern region of Mesopotamia
●​ Pioneered key aspects of human civilization
●​ They developed the first known system of writing, Cuneiform, which facilitated record-keeping, administration,
and communication
●​ With their advanced agricultural techniques including the invention of the plow as well as irrigation, they were
able to support growing populations and established the world’s earliest known cities such as Uruk and Ur.
●​ They also constructed intricate irrigation systems to manage the unpredictable flooding of the Tigris and
Euphrates Rivers, enabling agricultural productivity.
●​ Their city-states were governed by priest-kings who held religious and political authority, overseeing temples
dedicated to their pantheon of Gods and Goddesses.
●​ The Sumerian’s contribution to mathematics, astronomy, literature, and law laid the foundation for subsequent
civilizations in the region and beyond, leaving a profound and lasting legacy on human history.

Sumerian Civilization (Mesopotamia)

●​ Present day Iraq
●​ One of four kingdoms in Mesopotamia (including Assyrian, Akkadian, and Babylonian kingdoms)
●​ First known settlers of the region
●​ Mesopotamia lies mostly in modern Iraq and northeastern Turkey and western Iran
●​ The Sumerians’ control of the region lasted for short of 2,000 years before the Babylonians took charge in
2004 BC
●​ Known for their innovations in language, governance, architecture, and more, Sumerians are considered the
creators of civilization as modern humans understand it.
●​ It is situated between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers.
●​ The script of Sumerians’ cuneiform (wedge-shaped writing) was used with a stylus that was pressed onto clay
tablets.
●​ The Sumerians invented the Plow, a revolutionary, agricultural tool that facilitated the cultivation of
Mesopotamian soil and significantly increased agricultural productivity.

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●​ Also pioneered the invention of the Wheel, around 3500 BCE, this revolutionized transportation, trade,
technology, and laid the groundwork for countless innovations throughout history.
●​ Uruk was one of the most significant cities of ancient Mesopotamia.
○​ It was a major urban center during that period and is renowned for its monumental architecture. This
includes the great Ziggurat or the Ziggurat of Uruk.
○​ Served as a hub of culture, commerce, and innovation. It was also characterized by monumental
architecture, advanced infrastructure, and significant cultural and economic achievements during the
fourth millennium BCE.
●​ Ziggurat, a massive, stepped pyramid temple tower, built in ancient Mesopotamia
○​ Are typically made of baked brick, and served as a religious center where rituals and offerings to the
Gods were conducted.
○​ Symbolized the connection between Heaven and Earth in Sumerian and Babylonian cosmology.
○​ Also influenced the warcraft Ziggurat
●​ The Sumerians were pioneers in irrigation techniques utilizing canals, to control the flow of water from the
Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which allowed for efficient agricultural cultivation and the otherwise Arid landscape
of Mesopotamia.
●​ Additionally, they developed sailboats with cloth sails and this enabled transportation and trade along the rivers
and across the Persian Gulf, contributing to the economic prosperity and cultural exchange of the region.

Egyptians (3100 BC to 332 BC)

●​ Emerged around 3100 BC along the fertile banks of the Nile.
●​ This civilization thrived for over three millennia and left an indelible mark on human history.
●​ They are known for their architecture, including the iconic pyramids and temples as well as their advanced
understanding of math, astronomy, and medicine.
●​ Ancient Egypt was governed by a Divine ruler, known as the Pharaoh, and was believed to be the intermediary
between the Gods and the people.
●​ The society was structured hierarchically with a sophisticated bureaucracy, overseeing agriculture, trade, and
other construction projects, supported by a vast, labor force of farmers, artisans, and scribes.
●​ Egyptian religion permeated all aspects of life with elaborate rituals and ceremonies, dedicated to a pantheon
of Gods and Goddesses. While, the belief in an afterlife spurred the construction of elaborate tombs filled with
treasures for the deceased.
●​ Ancient Egypt endured as one of the most influential civilizations in antiquity, leaving behind a rich, cultural
legacy that continues to fascinate and inspire to this day.

Egyptians (3100 BC to 332 BC)

●​ Hieroglyphics were the ancient Egyptian writing system
○​ This is composed of intricate symbols and pictographs representing objects, sounds, and concepts
○​ Hieroglyphs were used for religious texts, administrative records, and monumental inscriptions on
tombs and temples.
○​ They were discovered in the early 19th century.
●​ Egyptian wigs were elaborate hairpieces worn by both women and men in Ancient Egypt.
○​ Often made from human hair, wool, or palm fibers and were meticulously styled to reflect social status
and fashion trends.
○​ Served not only as elaborate fashion accessories but also as practical items for protection from the sun
and for maintaining hygiene, especially in the hot climate where shaving one’s head could prevent lice
infestations.
●​ Kohl, on the other hand, was a dark cosmetic made from powdered minerals like galena and malachite
○​ Was widely used by both genders to outline and darken the eyes, providing protection from the sun’s
glare and serving as a symbol of beauty and divine protection
●​ Ancient Egyptian makeup kits typically consisted of various, natural substances (such as Kohl for darkening the
eyes, green malachite for eye shadow, red ochre for lipstick and blush, and various oils and unguents for
skincare and cosmetic purposes)
○​ These kits were used by both women and men and held significant cultural and religious significance
as makeup was believed to have protective and magical properties, warding off evil spirits and
enhancing one’s appearance in the life and afterlife.
○​ These makeup kits can also be portable
○​ Eye of Horus, related to the moon, protective powers come from deflecting malevolent forces.

Chinese (1600 BC to 221 BC)

●​ Chinese civilization has a storied history of technological innovation marked by significant contributions that
have shaped the world

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●​ Among their contributions would include the development of paper, although this is very different from the
papyrus used by the Egyptians, which is also paper.
●​ Gunpowder was invented in ancient China during the Tang dynasty (9th century AD). This revolutionized
warfare, leading to the development of firearms, cannons, and eventually, rockets.
○​ Initially, it was used for fireworks and ceremonial purposes
○​ Gunpowder’s military applications spread rapidly and shaped the course of world history, and
influenced technological advancements in warfare.
○​ Legend has it that gunpowder was linked to the search of the elixir of immortality in ancient China.
○​ It is said, during the Tang dynasty, alchemists experimenting with various substances in pursuit of the
fabled elixir of immortality stumbled upon the formula for gunpowder. While their quest for gunpowder
remained elusive, the discovery of gunpowder revolutionized warfare and had far-reaching
consequences for human civilization.
○​ The accidental creation of gunpowder from alchemical pursuits underscores the interconnectedness of
scientific discovery and the unexpected outcomes that can arise from human curiosity and
experimentation.
●​ The Great Wall of China stands as a testament to the remarkable technological, innovation, and engineering
prowess of ancient Chinese civilization.
○​ Constructed over centuries, beginning in the 7th century BCE and continuing through various
dynasties, the wall is a series of fortifications, built along the northern borders of China to defend
against the invasions from nomadic tribes such as the Mongols and the Xiongnu
○​ Several technological innovations were employed in the construction of the Great Wall. This includes
masonry and brickwork, strategic design, watch towers and fortifications, passes and gates, logistics
and labor, and defensive strategies.
○​ Beyond its physical structure, the Great Wall employed strategic defensive tactics such as the use of
archers, catapults, and other projectile weapons to repel invaders.

Greek Civilization (800 BC to 140 BC)

●​ Alarm Clock
○​ The Greek alarm clock consisted of a water clock or clepsydras, where water dripped from one vessel
to another, marking time by the level of water and creating an audible sound when it reached a certain
point, serving as an early form of time-keeping device.
●​ Water Mill
○​ The Water Mill utilized the power of flowing water to turn a wheel and grind grain or perform other
mechanical tasks, laying the groundwork for later advancements in water-powered technology.

Roman Civilization (753 BC to 476 AD)

●​ Newspaper
○​ Emerged as handwritten bulletins called “Acta Diurna”
○​ Disseminated throughout the empire containing news, public announcements, and events of the day.
●​ Bound Books or Codex
○​ This is a revolutionary format that replaced scrolls and facilitated easier reading and storage of written
works.
●​ Roman Architecture
○​ Renowned for its grandeur and engineering prowess, characterized by structures such as aqueducts,
amphitheaters, and triumphal arches, showcasing their mastery of materials like concrete and arches.
●​ Roman Numerals
○​ A system of numeric notations using the letters of the Latin alphabet or widely used for record-keeping
commerce and monumental inscriptions, leaving a lasting legacy in mathematics and communication.

The Middle “Dark” Ages (476 AD to 1400s)

●​ Middle Ages – is the term for Western Europe during the Postclassical Era. (A.P. World History’s 3rd time period.
●​ Middle Ages began with the fall of the Roman Empire (476) and ended in the 1400s.
●​ Also referred to as the Dark Ages.
●​ The term “the West” = Western Europe, but later included America
●​ Problems that rose during the “Dark Ages”
○​ Lack of a central government
○​ Widespread diseases (plagues)
○​ Long religious wars
○​ Little to no access to education
○​ Slow technological or cultural development
●​ Printing Press
○​ Revolutionized communication and facilitated the spread of knowledge

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●​ Microscope & Telescope

○​ Opened new frontiers and scientific explorations allowing humanity to explore the microscopic world
and observe cell bodies with unprecedented detail.
●​ War Weapons

The Renaissance (14th to 17th Century)

●​ Also regarded as the bridge between the Middle Ages and modern history that started as a cultural movement
in Italy, it later spread the rest of Europe.
●​ Humanism, Individualism
●​ Literature, Philosophy, Art

Modern History and the Industrial Revolution (1700s to 1900s)

●​ The Industrial Revolution Period (1870s - 1900s) of time when the face of industry changed dramatically.
●​ Lasting impact on the economies of the world and the lives of the person.
●​ Introduction of inventions that made the life of people easier.
●​ The advancement of the textile industry was a key development in the Industrial Revolution
●​ The cotton gin increased productivity of removing seeds from cotton
●​ Invented by Eli Whitney
●​ Large gains in productivity also occurred in spinning and weaving of textile
●​ The first that employed the factory systems
●​ The use of machines and an “assembly-line” approach
●​ James Watt created the first truly reliable steam engine in 1775.
●​ This invention made locomotives and many of the textile machines possible.
●​ Coal mining is the process of extracting coal from the ground.
●​ Coal is valued for its energy content
●​ Industrialization increased the demand significantly.
●​ The substitution of coal for charcoal greatly lowered the fuel cost of iron production.
●​ The charcoal-powered steam engine enabled a large increase in iron production.

Modern History and the Industrial Revolution (1700s to 1900s)

●​ Invention of Machine Tools
○​ The invention of first machine tools.
○​ These included the screw-cutting lathe, cylinder boring machine, and the milling machine.
●​ Use of Chemistry
○​ The large-scale production of chemicals was an important development during the Industrial
Revolution.
○​ Production of sulphuric acid was pioneered by the Englishman, John Roebuck in 1746.
○​ Production for fertilizers, detergents, dyes, explosives, drugs and other chemicals.
○​ Germany took world leadership in the chemical industry during the industrial industry.
○​ Aspiring chemists flocked to German universities during the period.
●​ Invention of Cement
○​ In 1824 Joseph Aspdin, a British bricklayer turned builder, patented a chemical process for making
Portland cement.
○​ This process involves sintering a mixture of clay and limestone to about 1,400 °C (2,552 °F), then
grinding it into a fine powder which is then mixed with water, sand and gravel to produce concrete.
●​ Agricultural Machines
○​ Joseph Foljambe's Rotherham plough of 1730 was the first commercially successful iron plough.
○​ The threshing machine, invented by Andrew Meikle in 1784, displaced hand threshing with a flail, a
laborious job that took about one-quarter of agricultural labor.
●​ The Tin Can
○​ The humble tin can was patented by a British merchant Peter Durand in 1810.
○​ Would have an incalculable impact on food preservation and transportation right up to the present day.
●​

Timestamp – 13:43

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NOTES:
Paleolithic Age:
Selective breeding – played a crucial role in the evolution of corn, lead to the transformation of a wild grass, teosinte,
into the staple crop we know today, corn. Over generations, this process resulted in the and cultivation of maize or corn.
Teosinte – corn

Neolithic Age:
Grinding stones – used to grind grains into flour
Sickle blades – were used for harvesting cereal crops, such as wheat and barley
Pottery – used for storage, cooking, and transportation of food and water.

T^T

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THREE: PHILOSOPHY OF SCIENCE

The Meaning of Philosophy

●​ Philosophy means “love of wisdom.”
●​ It is made up of two Greek words, philo, meaning love, and sophos, meaning wisdom.
●​ [wisdom is the ability to act, decide and contemplate based on experience, knowledge, insight and logic]

Why We Need Philosophy?

●​ Philosophy helps teachers to reflect on key issues and concepts in education.
●​ Usually through such questions as:
○​ What is being educated?
○​ What is the good life?
○​ What is knowledge?
○​ What is the nature of learning?
○​ And what is teaching?
●​ Philosophers – Philosophers think about the meaning of things and interpretation of that meaning.

Science Philosophical Problems

Ethical
●​ Is the study of values in human behavior or the study of moral problems: e.g.; (1) the rightness and wrongness of
actions, (2) the kinds of things which are good or desirable, and (3) whether actions are blameworthy or
praiseworthy.

Epistemological
●​ Is the study of knowledge. In particular, epistemology focuses on how we come to acquire knowledge and what
types of limits there are to our knowledge. In other words, how do we know what is true? It is sense experience
vs. reason.

Metaphysical
●​ Is the study of what is really real. Metaphysics deals with the so-called first principles of the natural order and
“the ultimate generalizations available to the human intellect.”; laws, causation, explanation.

Three Branches of Philosophy

●​ Metaphysics – What is the nature of Reality?
●​ Epistemology – What is the nature of Knowledge?
●​ Axiology/Ethics – What is the nature of Values?

Metaphysics
●​ One of the key concepts of understanding philosophy
●​ Concerned with reality and existence
●​ Asks: what is the nature of reality?
●​ Subdivided into two categories:
○​ Ontology – What is the nature of existence
○​ Cosmology – Origin and organization of the universe

Epistemology
●​ Raises questions about the nature of knowledge
●​ Logic is a key dimension to epistemology
●​ Two kinds of knowledge:
○​ Deductive – general to specific
○​ Inductive – specific facts to generalization

Axiology
●​ Explores the nature of values
●​ Two categories:
○​ Ethics – study of human conduct and examines moral values
○​ Aesthetics – values beauty, nature, and aesthetic experience (often associated with music, art,
literature, dance theater and other fine arts)

The Sciences
●​ Mathematics – Theorems & Axioms

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●​ Physics – Measurement
●​ Biology – Structure & Function
●​ Psychology
●​ Social Science

Key Concept
●​ Science is based on Facts.

Inductivism
●​ Inductivism proposes and rests on a common understanding of the laws of the universe; there are laws of
nature, uniformities that govern these laws.
●​ Facts are observable, and that theories should be derived from these facts by observation.
○​ Observation using the senses
○​ Seeing is believing.
●​ Observable facts are objective.

Hypothetico-deductivism
●​ Rejects the context of discovery.
●​ Hypothetico-deductivism asserts that “facts” are not always observable.
○​ Facts have come to scientists not by observation but rather by accident, through dreams, visions and
preexisting theories.
●​ Rejects the notion that facts are neutral and objective.
●​ Theories are confirmed, not proven, yet every instance that lends support corroborates the theory.
●​ Example: The Research of Charles Lyell
●​ Darwinism vs. Creationism
●​ If… organisms changed overtime (evolution theory), and… a record of organisms living in the past is examined in
the fossil record (planned test), then… the younger, higher rock layers should contain more fossils of
present-day species than the older, lower rock layers (expected result).

●​ If… organisms were created by an act of God and have not changed since creation (special creation theory),
then… the younger, higher rock layers should contain the same number of present-day species as the older,
lower rock layers (expected result). And… as can be seen in the previous table, there is an increasing trend as
stated by the evolution theory. Therefore… Lyell’s correlational evidence (i.e. an inverse correlation between the
age of the sediments and the percentages of present-day species) provides support for evolution theory
(conclusion).

Falsificationism
●​ Also rejects the context of discovery.
●​ Confirmation of hypothesis is not enough.
○​ No specific number of confirmations will make any hypothesis true.
●​ A body of science must be falsifiable.
●​ The notion of scientific progress for the falsificationist rests on the premise that scientific theories are tentative.

Conjecture and Refutation

●​ Science must continue to progress through an open quest to put existing theories to the test, allowing
preconceived notions of “facts,” whatever they may be, up to scientific criticism and refutation.
○​ Thomas Kuhn famously published The Structures of Scientific Revolutions in 1962, a publication that
brought previous theories in the history and philosophy of science into a whole new context.
○​ Coined the term “paradigm.”

“Normal Science” versus “Revolutionary Science”

●​ It is in this period of revolutionary science that theories are checked, previously held formulations are
re-analyzed and possible refutations are generated, for a new paradigm, or paradigm shift to occur.

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Solving problems is scientific progress.

Scientific Method
●​ Ask A Question (problem)
●​ Define Problem Statement (research)
●​ Construct The Hypothesis (hypothesize)
●​ Test The Hypothesis (experiment)
●​ Collect The Data (analyze)
●​ Report the Result (interpret)

Types of Data
Qualitative Data
●​ Categorical variables
●​ What type, From where, Qualities

Quantitative Data
●​ Numeric variables
●​ How many, How much, How often

Types of Data Collection

Qualitative Data
●​ Diary accounts, in-depth interviews, documents, focus groups, case study research, and ethnography,
open-ended surveys
●​ Provide a deep understandings of how people perceive their social realities, and in consequence, how they act
within the social world
●​ Example Survey Question: “Why do you prefer to use cloth masks vs. surgical masks?
●​ Data Analysis Process (adapted from Braun & Clarke, 2006):

Quantitative Data
●​ Laboratory and field experimentations, rating scales, closed survey questions such as “Yes” or “No” which can
have numerical categories.
●​ Statistics help turn quantitative data into useful information that are crucial for decision making
●​ Scientifically objective and rational
●​ Example Survey Question:
●​ “Why do you prefer to use cloth masks vs. surgical masks? Choose only 1.”
a.​ Environmentally friendly
b.​ Cost-effective
c.​ Fashionable
d.​ Reusable
e.​ It’s the only mask available near me.

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Reliability
●​ Reliability refers to how consistently a method measures something. If the same result can be consistently
achieved by using the same methods under the same circumstances, the measurement is considered reliable.

Test-Retest Reliability (across time)

●​ The consistency of a measure across time.
●​ Do you get the same results when your repeat the experiment?

Internal Consistency (across items)

●​ The consistency of the measurement itself.
●​ Do you get the same results from different parts of an experiment that are designed to measure the same
thing?

Interrater Reliability (across researchers)

●​ The consistency of a measure across raters or observers.
●​ Do you get the same results when different people conduct the same experiment

Validity
●​ Validity refers to how accurately a method measures what it is intended to measure. If research has high
validity, that means it produces results that correspond to real properties, characteristics, and variations in the
physical or social world.
●​ Note: High reliability is one indicator that a measurement is valid. If a method is not reliable, it probably isn’t
valid.

Face Validity
●​ The extent to which a measurement method appears “on its face” to measure the construct of interest. (e.g. IQ
test)

Construct Validity
●​ Used to ensure that the measure is actual measure what it is intended to measure (i.e. the construct), and not
other variables. (e.g. self-esteem questionnaire)

Content Validity
●​ The extent to which the measurement covers all aspects of the concepts being measured. (e.g. Comprehension
test)

Criterion Validity
●​ The extent to which the result of a measure corresponds to other valid measures of the same concept. (e.g.
survey))

Discriminant Validity
●​ The extent to which scores on a measure are not correlated with measures of variables that are conceptually
distinct. (e.g. Self-esteem)

Reliability vs. Validity

Reliability Validity
Definition The extent to which the results can be reproduced The extent to which the results really measure what
when the research is repeated under the same they are supposed to measure.
conditions.
Assessment By checking the consistency of results across time, By checking how well the results correspond to
across different observers, and across parts of the established theories and other measures of the
test itself. same concept.
Relation A reliable measurement is not always valid: the A valid measurement is generally reliable: if a test
results might be reproducible, but they’re not produces accurate results, they should be
necessarily correct. reproducible.

Differences in the reported news creates the confusion. Which one should the public believe in?
Are we really flattening the curve? or Are we still undergoing a surge in the pandemic?
How doe we prevent the spread of misinformation?

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Always remember CRAAP!!!

●​ Currency (C) – Is the information current
●​ Relevance (R) – Is the information important?
●​ Authority (A) – Who is the author/published/sponser of the news?
●​ Accuracy (A) – Is the information supported by evidence? Does the author cite credible sources? Is the
information verifiable in other places?
●​ Purpose (P) – What is the purpose of this news?

Check the Sources

●​ When an article cites sources, it’s good to check them out. Sometimes, official-sounding associations are really
biased think tanks or represent only a fringe view of a large group of people. If you can’t find sources, read as
much about the topic as you can to get a feel for what’s already out there and decide for yourself if the article is
accurate or not.

Look for Bias

●​ Does the article seem to lean toward a particular point of view? Does it link to sites, files or images that seem to
skew left or right? Biased articles may not be giving you the whole story.

Check Credentials
●​ Is the author specialized in the field that the article is concerned with? Does s/he currently work in that field?
Check LinkedIn or do a quick Google search to see if the author can speak about the subject with authority and
accuracy.

Check the Dates

●​ Like eggs and milk, information can have an expiration date. In many cases, use the most up-to-date
information you can find.

Judge Hard
●​ If you’re reading seems too good to be true, or too weird, or too reactionary, it probably is.

^-^

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FOUR: HUMAN ADVANCEMENT THROUGH SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, AND NATION-BUILDING

Pre-Colonial Period
●​ Herbal medicines were used to treat illnesses
●​ Writing, numerical, measurement, and calendar systems were used for trading.
●​ Farming, fishing, mining, and weaving were first livelihood skills developed – Banawe Rice Terraces

Colonial Period
Spanish Occupation
●​ Formal education institutions were developed and scientific organizations were launched.
●​ Medicine and biology were taught in different educational and training institutions.
●​ The natives were trained to use innovative approaches in farming.
●​ Engineering was introduced and developed as well.

American Occupation
●​ Institutions for science were recognized as well.
●​ Laboratorio Municipal was replaced by Bureau of Government Laboraties and was changed to Bureau of
Science.
●​ The National Research Council of the Philippines was established in 1933.
●​ Developments were focused on agriculture, medicine, and pharmacy, food processing, and forestry.
●​ The Bureau of Science was replaced by the Institute of Science in 1946.

Post-Colonial Period
●​ Continued progress in science and technology

President Ferdinand Marcos

●​ Mandated DECS [Department of Education, Culture and Sports] (DepEd) to promote science courses in public
high schools.
●​ Established several agencies and organizations
○​ Philippine Coconut Research Institute
○​ Philippine Textile Research Institute
○​ Philippine Atomic Energy Commission (Philippine Nuclear Institute)
○​ Philippine Council for Agricultural Research (Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural
Resources Research and Development)
○​ Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA)
○​ Philippine National Oil Company
○​ Plant Breeding Institute
○​ International Rice Research Institute (IRRI)
○​ Bureau of Plant Industry
○​ National Committee on Geological Sciences
○​ National Academy of Science and Technology

President Corazon Aquino

●​ National Science Technology Authority was renamed Department of Science and Technology

President Fidel Ramos

●​ 3,000 competent scientists
●​ “Doctor to the Barrio” made healthcare accessible in the far-flung areas of the country.
●​ The National Program for Gifted Filipino Children in Science and Technology was created for High School
Students
●​ Number of laws and statutes were mandated
○​ RA 8349: Magna Carta for Scientist Engineers, Researchers, and other Science and Technology
Personnel in Government
○​ RA 7687: Science and Technology Scholarship Act of 1994
○​ RA 7459: Inventors and Invention Incentives Act
○​ RA 8293: The Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines

President Joseph Estrada

●​ RA 8749: Clean Air Act of 1999
●​ RA 8792: Electronic Commerce Act of 2000

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●​ Implementation of cost effective irrigation technologies and providing basic health care services for those who
could not afford them

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

●​ Filipinnovation – Philippines as an innovation hub in Asia
●​ RA 9367: Biofuels Act
●​ RA 10601: Agriculture and Fisheries Mechanization (AfMech)

President Genigno Aquino III

●​ National Scientists
○​ Gavino C. Trono – Marine Biology
○​ Angel C. Alcala – Biological Science
○​ Ramon C. Barba – Horticulture
○​ Edgardo D. Gomez – Marine Biology

President Rodrigo Duterte

●​ S&T sector is seen to be a priority based budget on the budget for research and development (R&D)
●​ Philippine Space Technology Program
○​ Diwata-2 in 2018,
○​ Diwata-1 in 2016
●​ Importance of disaster preparedness

Science and Technology in the Philippines and the Environment

Contributions
1.​ Mechanization of farming
2.​ Water pumps and sprinklers help in managing the damaging effects of extreme heat caused by climate change.
3.​ Production of genetically modified crops and fertilizers
4.​ Improved transportation
5.​ Improved communication
6.​ Ways of learning has also changed

Adverse Impacts
1.​ Depletion of earth’s natural resources
2.​ Generation of wastes
3.​ People became too dependent on science and technology

PHILIPPINE INVENTIONS
Salamander Amphibious Tricycle
●​ Atoy Llave

SALt Lamp
●​ Sustainable alternative lighting
●​ Aisa Mijeno

Medical Incubator
●​ Dr. Fe del Mundo

Mosquito Ovicidal/Larvicidal Trap (2011)

●​ DOSD researchers, Dengue prevention

Erythromycin
●​ Abelardo Aguilar
●​ Streptomyces erythreus

Mole Remover
●​ Rolando dela Cruz
●​ Annacardium occidentale

Jeepneys
●​ One of the most recognizable national symbols

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Banana Ketchup
●​ Maria Orosa
●​ Mashed banana, sugar, vinegar, and spices

TECHNOLOGY AND THE FUTURE OF HUMANITY

Technology: An Augmentation of Human Idea
“What defines a technological tool – one historical definition – is something that takes a human’s sense or ability and
augments it and makes it more powerful. So for example, I wear contact lenses or glasses; that is a technology that
enhances my human ability of vision and makes it better.” – Mark Zuckerberg

The Essence of Technology

●​ Science and Technology: responsible for the ways society is continuously being modernized.
●​ However, the omnipresence of S&T must not overlap the basic tenets of ethics and morality.

Martin Heidegger (1977): The Question Concerning Technology

●​ Defined technology as
○​ (1) Instrumental
○​ (2) Anthropological

Instrumental: Technology is a means to an end

●​ Technology is not an end in itself; it is a means to an end.
●​ Aimed as to how things get done.
●​ Technology is viewed as a tool available to individuals, groups, and communities that desire to make an impact
on society.

Anthropological: Technology is a human activity

●​ Human activity to achieve an end and to produce and use a means to an end is, by itself.
●​ The production or invention of technological equipment, tools and machines, the products and inventions, and
the purpose and functions they serve are what define technology.

Technology as tool, and Technology as a human activity

●​ Neither one touches the true essence of technology

Technology as a way of Revealing

●​ Heidegger: True can only be pursued by the correct.
○​ What is correct leads to what is true.
○​ Envisioned technology as a way of revealing (“bringing forth”)
○​ “Technology is therefore no mere means. Technology is a way of revealing. If we give heed to this, then
another whole realm for the essence of technology will open itself up to us. It is the realm of revealing,
i.e., of truth” – Martin Heidegger

Modern Technology: Bringing Forth or Challenging Forth?

●​ Modern technology challenges nature to reveal itself.
●​ Nature as standing-reserce that can be disposed of by those who binds them.
●​ Modern technology’s tool: Humans
●​ Example of Bringing Forth technology: Windmill, Example of Challenging Forth technology: Coal

“Enframing” as Modern Technology’s way of Revealing

●​ Modern technology challenges humans to enframe nature.
●​ Destining – Humans, to be exploited as an instrument of technology, for the enframing of nature.
●​ Two ways of looking at the world:
○​ Calculative Thinking – desire to put an order to nature
○​ Meditative Thinking – allows the nature to reveal itself

The Dangers of Technology

●​ Lies in how humans let themselves be consumed by it.
●​ Humans think nature needs to be saved, whereas mother nature would remain even if humans cease to exists.
●​ We must not be consumed by technology lest we lose the essence of who we are as humans

The Sword of Damocles

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●​ The sword of Damocles as analogy to technology in a dangerous world.

●​ In summary, what is the story all about?
●​ Explain why technology in the modern world is like the Sword of Damocles?

So where are we heading to?

ADVANCEMENTS IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Technological Advantages
●​ Efficiency
●​ Time
●​ Communication
●​ Jobs
●​ Education
●​ Transportation
●​ Creation

Biological technologies could shape the society

●​ Genomics & proteomics
●​ Biotechnology including cloning, genetic engineering, CRISPR
●​ Synthetic Biology
●​ But before you proceed, let us review the central dogma of biology and the genetic code table.

Central Dogma of Biology

●​ What is DNA, RNA, and a protein molecule? What is DNA replication? What is the purpose of this process? What
is transcription? What is the significance of this process? What is Translation? What is the significance of this
process? Please review these basic biological concepts

Genomics and Proteomics

●​ Genomics – deals with the DNA sequence organization, function, and evolution of genes.
●​ Proteomics – aims to identify all the proteins in a cell or organism including any posttranslational modified
forms, as well as their cellular localization, functions and interactions.
●​ Genomics was made possible by the invention of techniques of recombinant DNA, also known as gene cloning
or genetic engineering.

Biotechnology
●​ The use of living organisms in any form for the convenience of life.

Traditional Biotechnology
●​ Used in food preservation and production of foods.
●​ Dying or “dehydrating” food is a method of food preservation that removes enough moisture from the food so
bacteria, yeast and molds cannot grow.
○​ Dried fish, Dried fruits
●​ Fermentation is process where microorganisms are used to produce a product
○​ Wine, Kimchi, Atsara/Atchara, Pickles

Modern Biotechnology
●​ Gives scientists molecular tools for obtaining a better understanding of the structure and function of genes in
living organisms.

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○​ Animal Cloning, GMO, Gene Theraphy, Plant Hybridization, Recombinant Drugs, Antibody Production,
Stem Cell Therapy, Biopharming

Aims of Modern Biotechnology

●​ Develop new precision tools and diagnostics;
●​ Speed up breeding gains and efficiency;
●​ Develop pest- and disease-resistant crops;
●​ Combat salinity, drought, and problems of agriculture;
●​ Enhance the nutritional quality of food;
●​ Increase crop varieties and choice;
●​ Reduce inputs and production costs; and
●​ Increase profits (Bragdon et al., 2005)

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

●​ Are products of artificial manipulation and alteration of a species’ genetic material in a laboratory using genetic
engineering.
●​ Are organisms whose genetic makeup has been modified using recombinant DNA methods (also called gene
splicing), gene modification, or transgenic technology.
●​ Plant, animal, bacteria, and virus genes may be combined or may be crossbred to produce another kind of
species that do not naturally occur in the environment.
●​ Also called as transgenic organisms since the process involves the transfer of genes.
●​ Aims to address issues about food security, agriculture, drug production, and nutrition.
●​ Herbert Boyer and Stanley Cohen – first scientists to genetically modify an organism by combining genes from
two different E. coli.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

Pros:
●​ Increased crop yield, Pest resistance

Cons:
●​ Growing concern with how GMOs may affect consumer’s health and the environment.
●​ Concerns on human rights
●​ Accident in genetically engineering a virus or bacteria may cause a serious epidemic.

Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)

●​ Humulin – first GMO approved by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), type of insulin produced using
genetically engineered [Link] bacteria.
●​ bovine somatotropin (BST) – FDA approved metabolic protein hormone used to increase milk production in
dairy cows for commercial use.
●​ Flavr Savr – FDA approved tomato for sale on grocery stores which delays its ripening effect and gives it a
longer shelf life compared with natural tomatoes.
●​ Bt potatoes and corn, roundup ready soybeans
●​ Golden Rice – developed in the Philippines to address vitamin A deficiency, which is a public health issue in
Asian countries where rice is a staple food crop. Variety of Oryza sativa genetically modified to biosynthesize
beta-carotene, a precursor of Vitamin A, in the edible parts of rice.
●​ Yorkshire pig – genetically modified to produce offspring that produce the enzyme phytase in their saliva to
digest plant phosphorus, unlike that of normal pigs.
●​ Bt toxins in the blood of pregnant women in eastern Quebec

CLONING vs GENETIC ENGINEERING

Cloning
●​ Process by which identical copies of an organism are made.
●​ The copy, or clone, possesses the same genetic material as the original organism.

Genetic Engineering
●​ Whereas cloning produces genetically exact copies of organisms, genetic engineering refers to processes in
which scientists manipulate genes to create purposefully different versions of organisms-and, in some cases,
entirely new living things.
●​ Geneticists have even introduced genes from one species to another.

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BIOTECHNOLOGY via GENE CLONING

●​

Medical Technologies: Targeted Medications

C.R.I.S.P.R. Technology
●​ Means Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats
●​ shorthand for CRISPR-CaS9
●​ CRISPR = DNA snippets of viruses in a bacterial DNA (new DNA becomes part of their own)
●​ Cas 9- enzyme that acts like a pair of molecular scissors, capable of cutting strands of DNA.
●​ Genetic engineering tool that uses a CRISPR sequence of DNA and its associated protein (Cas9) to edit the
base pairs of a gene.
●​ Adapted from the natural defense mechanisms of bacteria and archaea
●​ Foil attacks by viruses and other foreign bodies by chopping up and destroying the DNA of a foreign invader
●​ Enable scientists to repair genetic detects (genetic diseases) or use genetically modified human cells as
therapies.

7 Diseases that can be cured by CRISPR:

●​ Cancer
●​ Blood disorders
●​ Blindness
●​ AIDS
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●​ Cystic fibrosis
●​ Muscular dystrophy
●​ Huntington’s Disease
●​ Watch [Link]

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3-Parent Baby
●​ Three-parent baby, human offspring produced from the genetic material of one man and two women through
the use of assisted reproductive technologies, specifically mitochondrial manipulation (or replacement)
technologies and three-person in vitro fertilization (IVF).

SYNTHETIC BIOLOGY
●​ Defined as the design and construction of new biological parts, devices, and systems and the re-design of
existing, natural biological systems for useful purposes.
●​ Engineer’s approach to biology
●​ Build your own cell with Synthetic Biology 2.0 [The next generation of bioengineering]

Coronavirus Testing Basics

●​ According to US Food and Drug Administration,

Types of Tests
●​ There are two different types of tests – diagnostic tests and antibody tests.
1.​ Diagnostic test – show if you have an active coronavirus infection and should take steps to quarantine or
isolate yourself from others.
○​ molecular tests, such as RT-PCR tests, that detect the virus's genetic material
○​ antigen tests that detect specific proteins on the surface of the virus.
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2.​ Antibody test – looks for antibodies that are made by your immune system in response to a threat, such as a
specific virus. Antibodies can help fight infections. Antibodies can take several days or weeks to develop after
you have an infection and may stay in your blood for several weeks or more after recovery. Because of this,
antibody tests should not be used to diagnose an active coronavirus infection.
●​ Watch: https;//[Link]/watch?v=ygsztdFoWPA

Personal Health Monitoring (PHM) Wearable Biosensors

●​ A portable device that can be worn to record and monitor health-related data outside the hospital.
●​ Application:
○​ Remote monitoring of patient
○​ Training support for athlete
○​ Monitoring of individuals who work with hazardous elements
○​ Tracking of professional driver's vital signs to alert them from fatigue and drowsiness

Modern Day Telecommunication e-Medicine online consultation

Nanotechnology
●​ Nanotechnology is a part of science and technology about the control of matter on the atomic and molecular
scale – this means things that are about 100 nanometers across.
●​ Refers to manipulation of matter on an atomic to subatomic scale

Benefits of Nanotechnology
●​ Using nanotechnology, scientists and engineers can create new materials and devices with enhanced
properties.
●​ Products for a more energy-efficient world, such as more efficient fuel cells, batteries and solar panels.
●​ Highly sophisticated tools for detecting and treating cancer, bandages that help to prevent infection, better
medical imaging technology and more.
●​ Next generation materials that are stronger, lighter and more durable than many of the materials used today in
buildings, bridges, airplanes, automobiles and other applications.
●​ Solutions that help to create more drinkable water from groundwater sources and also for cleaning
contaminated soil.

Consumer Products
●​ Nanotechnology has already found its way into numerous consumer products you use every day, from clothing
to skin lotion. They include:
○​ Silver nanoparticles in fabric that kill bacteria making clothing odor-resistant.
○​ Skin care products that use nanoparticles to deliver vitamins deeper into the skin
○​ Lithium ion batteries that use nanoparticle-based electrodes powering plug-in electric cars.
○​ Flame retardant formed by coating the foam used in furniture with carbon nanofibers.

SOCIAL IMPLICATIONS AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Designer Babies
●​ Is this kind of technology ethical?
●​ A baby genetically engineered in vitro for specially selected traits or a baby whose genetic makeup has been
altered or chosen to provide the desired genome.
●​ Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis-selecting the best egg; simplest method and used since 1988

Cloning
●​ Helps in in-depth research, like motor neuron disease.
●​ Embryonic stem cells can be cloned to produce tissues or organs to replace or repair the damaged ones.
●​ Allow parents who have lost a child a chance to redress their loss using the DNA of their deceased child.

ISSUES
Religious
●​ “Playing God”
●​ Human embryo should be left alone
●​ Takes away the uniqueness of an individual

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Medical
●​ Success rate 0.1%-3% only
●​ Enucleated egg and the transferred nucleus may not be compatible
●​ Pregnancy might fail
●​ Problems during later development
●​ Abnormal gene expressions

ISSUES
●​ Australia – prohibited human cloning; therapeutic cloning is legal
●​ Canada – prohibits: cloning human, stem cells, growing human embryos for research, buying and selling of
human reproductive materials
●​ India – no specific law but has specific guidelines prohibiting human cloning; stem cell research is allowed
●​ Argentina – prohibits "experiments concerning cloning of human cells in order to generate human beings"

Issues on Targeted Medications

●​ Requires skill for administration & storage
●​ May produce toxicity symptoms
●​ Difficult to maintain the stability of the drug in dosage form
●​ High sophisticated technology for formulation
●​ Insufficient localization of targeted systems into tumor cells
●​ Very costly

Issues on eMedicine and eConsultation

●​ Regulatory and Industry Barriers.
●​ Physical Examination is Limited.
●​ Equipment and Technology are costly

Issue on Personal Health Monitoring (PHM) Wearable Biosensers

●​ Privacy – Leakage of private information and surveillance.
●​ Overreliance on wearable sensors – Might reduce the interaction between the wearer and his/her physician.
●​ Reliability and accuracy

Issues on Nanotechnology
●​ Public trust and potential risks
●​ Issues of environmental impact

Timestamp – 33:41

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NOTES:

Part 3 – One Health

One Health Approach

●​ Concept was created in 2004
●​ Design and implement programs

SDG 3 (Good Health And Well-Being)

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T^T

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