MODULE-OF-SCIENCE-TECHNOLOGY-AND-SOCIETY-1.pdf - MODULE OF...

Prepared by: Mary Sheenalyn P. Rodil (Chemistry Department, College of Science, TUP-Manila)
MODULE OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY
CHAPTER 4 : HUMAN FLOURISHING IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
The progress of human civilizations throughout history reflects the progress of
science and technology. The human beings are both the bearer and
beneficiary of science and technology, grows and sees meaning in the world
he puts up. For a person’s journey to have a good life, he may acquire,
consume or destroy what the world has to offer. It is then important to reflect
on everything that matters. We must reflect on science and technology as part
of human life that makes us reflect , of what we call meditative thinking, as
stated by Martin Heidegger. Science and technology, gives meaning to the life
of a person making his path in the real world, despite its methodological and
technical nature.
For us to appreciate the fruits of science and technology, they must be
examined not only for their function and instrumentality but also for their
greater impact on the human beings. The different gadgets and technology
that we have today make our lives a lot easier. Their utility lies on providing
people with a certain good, convenience, or knowledge. With the advanced
medical practice and research , cures and prevention for illnesses ensure us
of a good quality of life.
4.1 TECHNOLOGY AS A MODE OF REVEALING
“The Question of Technology” by Martin Heidegger urges us to question
technology and see the common understanding of people about it.
According to ancient doctrine, the essence of a thing is considered to
be what the thing is. We ask the question concerning technology when we ask
what it is. Everyone knows the two statements that answer our question. One
says : Technology is a human activity. The two definitions of technology
belong together. For to posit ends and procure and utilize the means to them
is human activity. The manufacture and utilization of equipment, tools, and
machines, the manufactured and used things themselves , and the needs and
ends they serve, all belong to what technology is. The whole complex of these
grievances is technology. Technology itself is a contrivance – in Latin, and
instrumentum . The current conception of technology, according to which it is a
means and a human activity, can therefore be called the instrumental and
anthropological definition of technology ( Heidegger, 1997, p.5)
The “true” entrails so much more meaning and significance. Heidegger,
however, asserted that the true can be pursued through the correct. The
experience and the understanding of what is correct lead the human beings
to what is true. Technology is making something, it is way of bringing forth. If
we consider technology as a mean of revealing, then the truth is brought forth.