WHAT IS SCIENCE - The system of knowledge of the 3.

The Great Ziggurat of Ur- It was built in the same

natural world gained through scientific method. manner that they constructed the city of Uruk. Without
much building material, the structure was constructed using
WHAT IS TECHNOLOGY? sun-baked bricks. It served as a sacred place of their chief
- tekhne meaning “art” or “craft” god, where only their priest were allowed to enter.
- logia meaning “subject” or “interest” 4. Irrigation and Dikes- As population increased, so did
- practical applications of what we know about nature the demand for food. And the scarcity on water of their
- using scientific principles for the betterment of the farm lands was a big dilemma during that time. As a
human situation solution, Sumerians created dikes and irrigation canals to
- science or knowledge put into practical use to solve bring water to farm lands and at the same time control
problems or invent useful tools. the flooding of the rivers.
5. Mesopotamian Sailboats - Another challenge for
SCIENCE is linked to SOCIETY through Sumerians was transportation. At that time, wheels were not
TECHNOLOGY -> HUMAN CULTURE yet invented; the main mode of transportation was through
As stated by CHED Memorandum Order No. 20 s. waterways such as rivers and seas. They invented sailboats
2013, Science, Technology, and Society is an to address their increasing demands on large quantities of
interdisciplinary course that engages the students to products and were able to cover large distances.
confront the realities brought about by science and 6. Sumerian Wheel - The first wheel was not made for
technology in society, with all its socio-political, cultural, transportation but for farm work and food processes. With
economic, and philosophical underpinnings at play. the use of the wheel and axle, mass production was made
This course also seeks to instill reflective easier. Farmers were able to mill grains with less effort in
knowledge in the students so that they are able to live the less time.
good life and display ethical decision- making in both social 7. Mesopotamian Plow - Another farm technology
and scientific dilemmas. invented by the Mesopotamians is the plow. They need a
technology which would enable them to dig the ground
HISTORICAL ANTECEDENTS in which social where seed would be planted. It was being pulled by
considerations changed the course of science & technology. an Ox
Ancient Times (A-J)
- People in the ancient times were concerned with B. Babylonian Civilization
transportation and navigation, communication and record - Babylonian civilization emerged near the Tigris and
keeping, mass production, security and protection, as well Euphrates Rivers. The Babylonians were great builders,
as health, aesthetics, and architecture. engineers and architects.
- In order to integrate their needs- for better transportation, 1. Hanging Gardens of Babylon - It was said to be a
establishment of structures for protection from human structure made out of layers upon layers of gardens that
attacks and natural disasters, construction of bigger and contained several species of plants, trees, and vines.
infrastructure- people ventured into what it is now known as According to the legends, the great Babylonian King
the field of engineering. Nebuchadneezar II built the gardens for his wife, Queen
Amytis. With its beautiful scenery and complicated design
A. Sumerian Civilization (7) of infrastructure, it is considered one of the seven wonders
- Sumeria is located on the southernmost tip of ancient of ancient world. However, no physical evidence has been
Mesopotamia. They are known for their high degree of found to prove the existence of the Hanging Gardens of
cooperation with one another and their desire for great Babylon. Many said it was just a product of the creative
things. This desire pushed them to develop many things imagination of the great King because it lacked
connected with science and technology. documentation and archaeological evidence. On the other
1. Cuneiform - One of the major contributions of the hand, if it really existed, it must have been destroyed by
Sumerians is the development of the first writing system war, erosion, or an earthquake.
known as cuneiform. It is a system utilizes words, pictures,
and triangular symbols which are carved on clay using C. Egytian Civilization (5)
wedge instruments and then left to dry. It allowed the - Another early civilization famous for its legacy is the
Sumerians to keep record of things with great historical Egyptian civilization located in North Africa. Egyptians
value or their everyday life contributed engineering technology, in regards in the
2. Uruk City- Another important contribution of the infrastructures established by pharaohs, and other practical
Sumerians is the City of Uruk. There were no building things that the world now considers as essential.
stones in the location of this city and lumber was limited, 1. Paper or Papyrus - Although Egypt was not the first to
making the construction a big challenge. Sumerians were develop a system of writing, they were able to make writing
able to build of the city using only mud or clay from the easier for the world. Before the Egyptian innovation, clay
river, which they are mixed with reeds, producing sun tablets were used. However, because of those tablets was so
baked bricks fragile, heavy and delicate to handle, it becomes a major
problem in safe-keeping and transporting them. But because
of the invention of paper or papyrus, a plant that grew 2. Bound Books and Codex - With the invention of paper,
abundantly along Nile River, record keeping, it became easier for civilization to write down everything
communication and transportation makes easy for them. happen in their time. According to sources, Julius Caesar
2. Hieroglyphics - Like the Sumerians, the Egyptians also started the tradition of stacking up papyrus to form pages of
developed a system of writing using symbols, known as a book. Later on, they provide covers to protect the papyrus.
hieroglyphics. This form of writing can still be seen today The earlier cover was made out of wax were later on
and remains to be famous as the pyramids where they were replaced by animal skin which proved to be stronger and
found. Hieroglyphics was the language that tells the world longer-lasting.
of the history and culture of Egyptians. 3. Roman Architecture - The most visual contribution of
3. Cosmetics - The Egyptians also invented the use of ancient Roman Empire to the world are their architectures.
cosmetics for both health and aesthetics reason. They wore The Romans were able to creatively design old architectural
kohl, an ancient make-up used by Egyptian to put black or patterns adapt the new trends at that time. This development
dark gray line on their eyes, around the eyes to prevent and in the field of engineering and architecture was fully
cure eye diseases. Egyptian also believed that a person supported and funded by the Roman government so they
wearing make-up was protected from evil and that beauty were able to implement major projects such as large
was a sign of holiness. churches, aqueducts, amphitheater, coliseums and even
4. Ancient Egyptian Wig - Another cosmetic invention of residential houses.
ancient Egyptians is the wig. During ancient Egyptian 4. Roman Numerals - Since the Roman Empire was
times, wigs were worn for health and wellness rather than expanding, it had to deal with many nations to maintain
for aesthetics purposes. The wigs were used to protect the power. For this reason, Romans devised their own number
shaved heads of the wealthy Egyptians from harmful rays of system, the Roman Numerals, specifically to address the
the sun. Wearing wig was better putting on a scarf or any need for a standard counting method that would meet their
other head cover since wig allowed heat to escape. increasing communication and trade concerns.
Moreover, it was considered cleaner than natural hair
because it prevented form accumulation of head lice. F. Chinese Civilization (4)
5. Water Clock/ Clepsydra- This device utilizes gravity - The Chinese civilization considered to be the oldest
that affects the flow of water from one vessel to the other. civilization in Asia, if not the world. Also known as the
The amount of water (or it height, depending on the method middle kingdom, China is located on the far east of Asia.
used) remaining in the device determines how much time Despite its less popular status among early civilizations, one
has elapsed since it is full. In the process, time is measured. cannot discredit the significant contributions of Chinese
civilization to the world.
D. Greek Civilization 1. Silk - Chinese were the ones to develop the technology to
- Greece is an archipelago in the southern eastern part of harvest the silk, comes from silkworms, and process it to
Europe. More than coliseums and the Olympics, the Greek produce paper and clothing. Silk production resulted in
civilization has contributed much to the world especially in the creation of a product for trade. The silk trade opened
the fields of science and technology. China to the outside world, making way for cultural,
1. Plato’s Water Alarm Clock - The ancient Greek’s alarm economic, and scientific exchanges.
clocks used large complicated mechanisms to time the 2. Tea Production - Tea is a beverage produced by pouring
alarm. They made use of water that dropped into drums hot or boiling water over crushed or shredded dried tea
which sounded the alarm. Plato was believed to have leaves. It was believed that the first tea was drunk by a
utilized an alarm clock to signal the start of his lecture. Chinese emperor. Tea production developed by the ancient
2. Greek’s Water Mill - Watermills were also considered Chinese may have resulted in making tea as one of the
as one of the most important contributions of Greek most popular beverages in the world today.
civilization to the world. They were commonly used in 3. Great Wall of China - Once considered the only man-
agricultural processes like milling of grains which was made structure that could see from outer space, the Great
necessary form of food processing during that time. Wall of China is said to be the largest and most extensive
infrastructure that the nation built. Moreover, it is
E. Roman Civilization (4) considered as one of the seven wonders of ancient world
- The Roman Empire was perceived to be the strongest 4. Gunpowder - The gunpowder is one of the most
political and social entity in the west. However, aside from interesting inventions in China. Originally, it was developed
their political contributions, a lot of discoveries and by Chinese alchemists who aimed to achieve immortality.
inventions still relevant today can be attributed to Roman They mixed charcoal, sulphur, and potassium nitrate, but
Empire. instead of creating an elixir of life, they accidentally
1. Newspaper - The first newspaper, known as Gazettes, invented a black powder that could actually generate
contained announcements from Roman Empire to the large amounts of heat and gas in an instant.
people. Made before the inventions of paper, these Gazettes
were engraved in metal or stone tablets and then publicly
displayed.
G. Medieval/Middle Ages (4) 3. Telephone - The more people got connected by trade and
- The start of the middle ages was marred by massive exploration, the more they needed a way to easily maintain
invasions and migrations. As such, great technology was these connections and communicate with each other in real
needed in the fields of weaponry, navigation, mass food and life. The development of telephone by Alexander Graham
farm production, and heat. Bell was one of the most important inventions at that time.
1. Printing Press - After the Chinese developed woodblock 4. Calculator - Although an earlier version of the calculator
printing, Johann Gutenberg was able to invent the printing had already been developed, circumstances in the modern
press, a more reliable way of printing using a cast type. The times required a faster way to compute more complicated
printing press was invented to address the need for equations. Computing devices must also be easy to carry
publishing books that would spread information to many since they would be utilized on a day-to day basis. The
people at a faster rate. creation of modern calculator did not only pave the way for
2. Microscope - Another invention in the Middle Ages is easier arithmetic calculations, but also resulted in the
the microscope. Growing populations caused massive development of more complex processing machines like
migration and urbanization during the period. More and the computer.
more people transferred to polluted and populated urban 5. Mobile Phone - In 1980, mobile phone was invented to
areas which resulted in more people getting sick and make the communication more efficient. It enabled people
needing medical attention. With this device people were to take calls on the move, rather than be tied to a landline.
able to observe organisms that were normally unseen by the Mobile phones also enabled text messages to be sent.
naked eye. The microscope was key in discovering new 6. Different Blood Types - In the early 20th century, Karl
means in preventing and curing various illnesses. Landsteiner discovered the different blood type; ABO blood
3. Telescope - Considering the vast empty ocean that group, at the University of Vienna. He tried to isolate the
separated lands, ship captains needed to see far and wide for different blood groups and enabling the first blood
them to navigate or to avoid dangers at sea. The invention transfusion later. And because of His discovery, he won a
of the telescope an optical instrument that helps the Nobel Prize in 1930.
observation of remote objects, was a great help to navigator 7. Internet/ World Wide Web - A British Computer
during this time Scientist, Sir Tim Berners-Lee, created a software to meet
4. War Weapons and Armors - Since wars were the demand for automated informationsharing between
widespread during the middle ages, great development in scientists in universities and institutes around the world-
the weaponry technology also occurred. All sides must World Wide Web/WWW. His invention helped to
develop weaponries not only as offensive tools but also as revolutionize the internet and make it freely available to the
defensive instruments. Additionally, in close-ranged hand word.
to hand combat, soldiers should wear something to protect
themselves, an need addressed by the creation of iron body I. Modern Times/ 21st Century (7)
armors. - For the past centuries, there have been countless of
developments and advancements in the world. Scientists
H. 19th– 20th Century (7) and researchers have continued to discover new things and
- The booming world population during the nineteenth expand our understanding and knowledge of the natural
century onward demanded more goods be produced at a phenomena happening around us. In the 21st century, there
faster rate. People needed efficient means of transportation are thousands of scientific breakthroughs. These have
to trade more goods and cover a larger distance. Faster and helped in improving our way of living while some are the
easier means to communicate and compute should be key to greater innovation in the future.
developed to established connections between and among 1. Smartphones - Smartphone combined many
nations. All these needs resulted in the development of technologies in one. The modern smartphone has enabled
industries. calls, texts, internet access, camera, and a variety of apps.
1. Pasteurization - As people were able to develop better Steve Jobs played a key role in developing the first
means of production to meet the needs of the population, smartphones.
food preservation and food safety became an issue. Louie 2. Facebook - Introduced in 2004, wasn’t the first social
Pasteur, a French biologist, microbiologist and chemist, media site to grace the internet, but it was by far most
found a way to solve the problem. He invented the process influential. It was initially developed for Harvard students
of pasteurization, the process of heating dairy products to only by Mark Zuckerberg and his college roommates. But
kill the harmful bacteria that allow them to spoil faster. now, it has over 150 million users. The ability to share
2. Petroleum Refinery - The modern times demanded snippets of your life with a multitude of contacts and use
better means of powering homes and transportation. Faced the internet to build lasting networks is one that is now
with this concern, Samuel M. Kier was able to invent ingrained into everyday life for both business and
kerosene by refining petroleum. Kerosene was later on individuals.
referred to as illuminating oil because it was used at first to 3. Google’s Driverless Cars – Waymo - As if electric cars
provide lighting to homes. weren’t innovative enough, Google’s driverless cars have
started being tested. Legislations have been passed in some
states in the US allowing driverless cars, and if testing goes
smoothly, these could become a reality in the next few subtropical areas including the Philippines. This virus is
years. usually transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquito, rampant
4. Face Transplant - A face transplant is a medical during the rainy season. In 2010, the Department of Science
procedure that replaces a person’s face using the tissues of a and Technology- Industrial Technology Development
dead person. In 2005, Isabelle Dinoire of France was the Institute (DOST-ITDI) was able able to introduced the
first person to have partial face transplant while the first full mosquito ovicidal/larvicidal trap system, also known as OL
face transplant happened in Spain in 2010. Face transplants Trap.
have been popularly carried out in the United States, Spain, 4. E-Jeepney - A major innovation that changed the
France, and Turkey. This is applicable for people with birth transportation industry in the Philippines was the
defects or disfigures caused by burns, disease, and trauma. development of the jeepney. This iconic public utility
5. Water as Fuel - German Cleantech Company has vehicle was built using the military jeeps left by the
developed a futuristic machine that converts water into fuel. Americans after World War II. However, the diesel
Through Power-toLiquid Technology, they can convert powered jeepney produces large quantities of black smoke
water and carbon dioxide into liquid hydrocarbons which and is usually a major contributor of noise pollution due to
take the form of synthetic diesel, petrol, and kerosene. its primitive exhaust system. To counter these
6. Artificial Intelligence - In 2011, for instance, a disadvantages, the Electric Jeepney (E-Jeepney) was
computer system called IBM Watson competed on and won developed. This modern type of transportation utilizes
American quiz-show Jeopardy, beating two all-time electricity instead of more expensive diesel. It is
champions in the process. Though we’re not at a stage environment-friendly since it does not emit any smoke
where robots are uprising and taking over the world, the and noise.
capability to develop full artificial intelligence can’t be too
far off. Scientific Revolution
7. Advancement in HIV cure - According to HIV.gov, Science is as old as the world itself. There is no individual
there are over 36.7 million people worldwide living with that can exactly identify when and where science began.
HIV/AIDS, in which 1.8 million of it is children. From the genesis of time, science has existed. It is always
HIV/AIDS remain to one of the deadliest diseases in the interwoven with the society. So, how can science be
world. On the other hand, HIV treatment has been available defined?
in Germany for more than two decades already - Science is defined as:
Antiretroviral therapy. In 2007, Dr. Gero Hütter was the 1. Science as an idea – includes ideas, theories, and all
first one to successfully cure an HIV/AIDS patient named available explanations and observations about the natural
Timothy Ray Brown by transplanting bone marrow from an and physical world.
HIV-immune patient. 2. Science as an intellectual activity – it encompasses a
systematic and practical study of the natural and physical
J. Philippine Invention (4) world. This process of study involves systematic
- Despite being considered a developing country, the observation and experimentation.
Philippines also contributes to the global and advancement 3. Science as a body of knowledge – it is a subject or a
of science and technology. Many of the discoveries and discipline, a field of study, or body of knowledge that deals
inventions made by the Filipinos were therefore built from with the process of learning about the natural and physical
indigenous materials or created to adapt to the harsh world.
tropical environment. 4. Science as a personal and social activity – this explains
1. Salamander Amphibious Tricycle - During the rainy that science is both knowledge and activities done by
season, flooding is a common occurrence in many areas in human beings to develop better understanding of the world
the country. Tricycles find it very difficult to traverse the around them. It is a means to improve life and to survive in
streets. To remedy the issue, Victor Llave and his team life. It is interwoven with people’s lives.
H2O Technologies where able to invent the Salamander, an Scientific revolution was the period of
Amphibious Tricycle that can cross not only flooded streets enlightenment when the developments in the fields of
but also rivers and lakes. mathematics, physics, astronomy, biology, and chemistry
2. Salt Lamp - One of the major needs in the Philippines, transformed the views of society about the nature.
as a developing nation, is electrification. A young Filipina It explained the emergence or birth of modern science as a
inventor named Aisa Mijeno was able to invent a lighting result of these developments from the disciplines
system that utilizes a material abundant in the Philippines, mentioned. The ideas generated during this period enabled
salt water. She invented the Sustainable Alternative the people to reflect, rethink, and reexamine their beliefs
Lighting Lamp, an environment-friendly light source that and their way of life. There is no doubt that it ignited vast
runs on saltwater. Aside from people who lived in coastal human interests to rethink how they do science and view
areas, it may also benefit those from far-flung barrios scientific processes.
because they can make their own salt water by mixing two Scientific revolution was the golden age for people
table spoons of salt and a glass of tap water. committed to scholarly life in science but it was also a
3. Mosquito Ovicidal/Larvicidal Trap System - Dengue, deeply trying moment to some scientific individuals that led
a mosquito born viral illness, is endemic in tropical and to their painful death or condemnation from the religious
institutions who tried to preserve their faith, religion, and never stopped experimenting, theorizing, and discovering
theological views. Some rulers and religious leaders did not new knowledge and ideas.
accept many of the early works of scientists. But these did
not stop people especially scientists to satisfy their curiosity I. COPERNICAN
of the natural and physical world. Born on Feb. 19, 1473, in Toruń, Poland, Mikolaj
Kopernik (Copernicus is the Latinized form of his name)
traveled to Italy at the age of 18 to attend college, where he
was supposed to study the laws and regulations of the
Catholic Church and return home to become a canon.
However, he spent most of his time studying mathematics
and astronomy. Due to his uncle's influence, Copernicus did
become a canon in Warmia, but he asked to return to Italy
to study medicine and to complete his law doctorate.
Nicolaus Copernicus finished the first manuscript
of his book, "De Revolutionibus Orbium Coelestium"
("On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres") in 1543.
In his book, he wanted a model of the universe in which
everything moved around a single center at unvarying rates.
Copernicus placed the Sun to be the centerpiece of the
universe. The Earth and all the planets are surrounding and
orbiting the sun each year. The moon, however, would still
Scientific revolution is very significant in the be seen orbiting the Earth.
development of human beings, transformation of the Copernicus’s model of the Earth orbiting around
society, and in the formulation of scientific ideas. It the Sun automatically positioned the planets into a logical
significantly improved the conduct of scientific sequence. In his model, Copernicus outlined two kinds of
investigations, experiments, and observations. The planetary motion: (1) the orbits of Venus and Mercury lay
scientific revolution also led to the creation of new research inside the orbit of the Earth, thus closer to the Sun; and (2)
fields in science and prompted the establishment of a strong the orbits of Mars, Saturn and Jupiter lay outside the Earth’s
foundation for modern science. In many ways, scientific orbit, thus farther from the sun.
revolution transformed the natural world and the world of
ideas. II. DARWINIAN
Charles Darwin is famous for his theory of
Some Intellectuals and Their Revolutionary Ideas evolution. He was born in England on February 12, 1809.
- To further understand what exactly happened during the Shortly after completing his college studies, Darwin joined
scientific revolution, it is important to examine the different the crew of the H.M.S. Beagle. During his travels, Darwin
individuals whose ideas have shaken and contested the made numerous observations and collected evidence that
dominant theories and ideas during this period – the truths led him to propose a revolutionary hypothesis about the
of their time. Scientists in all periods of time are driven by way life changes over time. That hypothesis, now supported
their curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity to explore by a huge body of evidence, has become the theory of
the physical and natural world. Their love for science is evolution.
driven by their deep passion to know and to discover.\ Darwin published his book "The Origin of
Species" in 1859. His book presented evidence on how
species evolved over time and presented traits and
adaptation that differentiate species. It allows an organism
to better adapt to its environment and will help it survive
and have more offspring.
The theory of evolution has main two (2) points: a)
All life on Earth is connected and related to each other, b).
This diversity of life came about because of the
modifications in populations that were driven by natural
selection.
Natural selection is often described as survival of
Scientists are not driven by clamor for honor and the fittest, where fitness refers to the ability to survive and
publicity. They are ordinary people doing extraordinary reproduce.
things. Some scientists were never appreciated during their
times, some were sentenced to death, while others were III. FREUDIAN
condemned by the Church during their time. In spite of all Sigmund Freud is a famous figure in the field of
the predicaments and challenges they experienced, they Psychology. He made a significant contribution in the
scientific world through the development of an important
observational method to gather reliable data to study 1. Calendar system – The Mayans are also known for
human’s inner life. This method is popularly known as the measuring time using two complicated accurate calendars
method of psychoanalysis. For Freud, this method of system. These calendars were very useful for their life
psychoanalysis is a scientific way to study the human mind especially in planning their activities and in observing their
and neurotic illness. The fact remains that Freudian ideas religious rituals and cultural celebration.
and theories are still considered nowadays as a great 2. Mayan hieroglyphics - They are also famous as one of
inspiration to examine human mind and behavior in a more the world’s first civilizations to use a writing system.
scientifically accepted way. 3. Tlatchtli - The use of rubber is documented in the Maya
Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory of personality ball game.
argues that human behavior is the result of the interactions
among three component parts of the mind: the id, ego, and B. AZTEC CIVILIZATION
superego. The Aztec civilization has also made substantial
a. Id – most primitive of the three structures, concerned contributions to science and technology and to the society
with instant gratification of basic physical need and urges. as a whole. Some of their contributions are the following.
b. Ego – rational, pragmatic part of our personality. It is less 1. Mandatory education - The Aztec puts value on
primitive than the id and is partly conscious and partly education; that is why their children are mandated to get
unconscious. education regardless of their social class, gender, or age. It
c. Superego – concerned with social rules and morals – is an early form of universal or inclusive education.
similar to what many people call their “conscience” or their 2. Chocolate - Chocolate was highly valued in the Mayan
“moral compass” culture - it was actually used as currency. The Aztecs
valued the cacao bean as well, and demanded it be a part of
tribute to their gods. This was a spicy hot chocolate drink
IV. INFORMATION that was popular among the upper classes. It was actually a
The explosion of availability of information due mix of cocoa beans, corn flour, water and chilies.
to use of computers, the Internet, and other electronic 3. Chinampa - Aztec agriculture in the heart of the empire
devices. used chinampas for their crops. Chinampa (a small
Even though the definition of the information rectangular fertile land) is a form of Aztec technology for
revolution deals with electronics, one can still trace it agricultural farming in which the land was divided into
back to as early as 1455, when Johann Gutenberg invented rectangular areas and surrounded by canals.
the printing press. This allowed information to 4. Aztec calendar - This enabled them to plan their
be spread faster and in greater quantities than even before activities, rituals, and planting season.
With the printing press in mind, the Information
revolution can be defined on a wider scale as the spread and C. INCA CIVILIZATION
availability of information through the advancement of The Inca civilization is also famous in
communication and technology throughout society. Mesoamerica. The Incas made advanced scientific ideas
The impacts that the information revolution has had considering their limitations as on old civilization.
on: a) Economic; b) Social; c) Political. 1. Quipu - a system of knotted ropes to keep records that
This has been the era in which technology has been only expert can interpret. They use it for record keeping,
prevalent. It is also known as the Computer Age that has monitoring of tax, census records, etc.
brought so much change on how we are living today. 2. Inca textiles – since cloth was one of the specially prized
artistic achievements. For the Incas finely worked and
V. MESO - AMERICAN highly decorative textiles came to symbolize both wealth
Mesoamerica includes the entire area of Central and status, fine cloth could be used as both a tax and
America from Southern Mexico up to the border of South currency.
America. There is no doubt that the Mesoamerican region is 3. Mita System – is a labor service invented that takes in
rich in culture and knowledge prior to the arrival of its form road and bridge construction, cultivation of maize
European colonizers. It has contributed a lot of ideas or (corn), and textile production.
discoveries for Archaeology. The temples and pyramids left
a lot of information about early architectures that leads us to VI. ASIAN
study more of early civilizations. Earth’s largest and most populous continent,
located primarily in the Eastern and Northern Hemispheres.
A. MAYAN CIVILIZATION The continent, which has long been home to the majority of
The Maya civilization is one of the famous the human population, was the site of many of the first
civilizations that lasted for approximately 2,000 years. civilizations.
These people are known for their works in astronomy. They The revolution itself taught Asian countries about
incorporated their advanced understanding of astronomy freedom and independent nationhood along the
into their temples for astronomical observation. The improvement brought by it internally.
Mayans are considered one of the most scientifically Traditional Chinese medicine such as acupuncture
advanced societies in Mesoamerica. and herbal medicine were practiced.
They discovered various medical properties and uses of Brief Historical Background of Science and Technology
different plants and animals to cure human illness. Four in the Philippines
greatest inventions of ancient China include the The history of science and technology in the
gunpowder, compass, papermaking, and printing. Philippines started way back before the country gained its
China made substantial contributions in various independence from the American colonizes. Before the
fields. The list of their discoveries and inventions is coming of the Spanish colonizers, the early inhabitants of
overwhelming. These contributions were made along with the archipelago had their own culture and traditions. They
mathematics, logic, philosophy, and medicine. However, had their own belief system and indigenous knowledge
cultural factors prevented these Chinese achievements from system that keeps them organized and sustained their lives
developing into modern science. and communities for many years.

VII. MIDDLE EAST Pre – Colonial

The Middle East is a transcontinental region - Even before the coming of Spanish colonizers, Philippines
centered on Western Asia. The corresponding adjective is has already embedded science and technology in their way
Middle Eastern and the derived noun is Middle Easterner. of life.
The revolutions in the Middle East were a product - Scientific knowledge is observed in the way they plant
of the development and growth of the individual their crops that provide them food, in taking care of animals
nationalism, imperialism, for the efforts to modernize to help them in their tasks, and for food production. They
Middle Eastern societies and to push the declining power of also interpret the movements of heavenly bodies to predict
Ottoman Empire in the Arab region. seasons and climates.
The Middle East is known for their machine - Technology is used by people in building houses,
designed and improvement for irrigation, industrial work irrigations, and in developing tools that they can use in
and war. The windmill and watermill are used for crushing everyday life. They developed tools for planting, hunting,
sugarcanes, grinding grains, and pumping water. cooking, and fishing; for fighting their enemies during war
The book of Badic al-Zaman ibn al-Razaz al-Jazari or tribal conflicts; and for transportation, both on land and
desribed candle, and water clocks, water vessels, fountains, on
automata, and water raising devices. - The Galleon Trade was accounted in the Philippines
The book written by Taqi al-Din ibn alRashid al- colonial economy. Trade was given more focus by the
Dimashqi explained steam power and a blueprint of a six Spaniard colonial authorities due to the prospects of big
piston pump. profits.

VIII. AFRICAN Colonial

Africa is the world's second largest and second - The progress of science and technology in the Philippines
most-populous continent, being behind Asia in both continued under the American rule of the islands.
categories. Africa hosts a large diversity of ethnicities, - Colonization by the Spaniards provided the Philippines
cultures and languages. with modern means of construction.
Africa is blessed with natural and mineral - Science during the American period was inclined towards
resources. Science also emerged in this part of the planet agriculture, food processing, forestry, medicine and
long before the Europeans colonized it. The history of pharmacy. Not much focus was given on the development
science and mathematics show that similar to other ancient of industrial technology due to the free trade policy with the
civilizations, the early civilizations in Africa are knowledge United States which nurtured an economy geared towards
producers, too. agriculture and trade.
Astronomy was also famous in the African region. - In addition, the Spanish government developed health
For instance, documents show that Africans used three education systems that were enjoyed by the principalia
types of calendars: lunar, solar, and stellar, or a class.
combination of the three. Ancient Egyptians are also good
in the four fundamental mathematical operations and other Post-Colonial
mathematical skills. - After achieving independence from colonizers, the
Philippines under different administration continued to
Some African intellectual revolution includes: pursue programs in science and technology agenda.
1. Kola nuts - Africa is known for the production of Kola - One of the presidents who ushered in advancements in
nuts stimulants and is the basis of the popular Cola Drink. science and technology was former president, Ferdinand
2. Coffee - was developed as a consumable drink that Marcos. Under the term of Marcos, many agencies in
spread to Arabia and then throughout the world. science and technology were established.
3. Africa used plants with salicylic acid (aspirin) for pain - In 1986, during Corazon Aquino’s presidency, the
and Kaopectate (diarrhea). They are also advanced in National Science and Technology Authority was replaced
medicine such as in operating autopsies and caesarians. by the Department of Science and Technology, giving
science and technology a representation in the cabinet.
- In August 8, 1988, Corazon Aquino created the 3. Medical, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Presidential Task Force for Science and Technology which - Ensuring compliance of drug – manufacturing firms with
came up with the first Science and Technology Master Plan ASEAN – harmonized standards by full implementation of
or STMP. The goal of STMP was for the Philippines to Food and Drug Administration
achieve newly industrialized country status by the year - Creating an education council dedicated to standardization
2000. of pharmaceutical services and care
- Empowering food and drug agencies to conduct evidence -
The development of science and technology in the based research as pool of information
Philippines, based on its brief history, is shaped by several - Allocating two percent of the GDP to research
factors and influences. Like in the history of science in - Legislating a law supporting human genome projects
other countries, it is always shaped by human and social 4. Biological Sciences
activities, both internal and external. - Protecting and conserving biodiversity by full
implementation of existing laws
- Use of biosafety and standard model by ASEAN
countries
- Promoting indigenous knowledge systems and indigenous
people’s conservation
- Formulation of common food and safety standards

GOVERNMENT POLICIES ON SCIENCE AND There are also other existing programs supported by
TECHNOLOGY the Philippine government through DOST. Some of these
The Philippine government introduced and projects are the following:
implemented several programs, projects, and policies to - Providing funds for basic research and patents related to
boost area of science and technology. The goal is to prepare science and technology
the whole country and its people to meet the demands of a - Providing scholarships for undergraduate and graduate
technologically driven world and capacitate the people to studies of students in the field of science and technology
live in a world driven by science. - Establishing more branches of the Philippine Science
Padilla –Concepcion (2015) reported that in 2015, High School System for training young Filipinos in the field
in response to the ASEAN 2015 Agenda, the government, of science and technology
particularly the Department of Science and Technology - Creating and developing science and technology parks in
(DOST), has sought the expertise of the National Research academic campuses to encourage academe and industry
Council of the Philippines (NCRP) to consult various partnerships.
sectors in the society to study how the Philippines can
prepare itself in meeting the ASEAN 2015 goals. As a The Philippine-American Academy of Science and
result of the consultation, the NCRP is expected to Engineering (PAASE, 2008) identified several capacity-
recommend policies and programs that will improve the building programs such as:
competitiveness of the Philippines in the ASEAN region. - Establishment of national centers of excellence
- Establishment of science and technology business centers
The NCRP clustered these policies into four, namely: to assist, advise technopreneur ship ventures.
1. Social Sciences, Humanities, Education, International - Strengthen science education at an early stage through the
Policies and Governance Philippine Science High School System
- Integrating ASEAN awareness in basic education without
adding to the curriculum In the field of education, several science-related
- Emphasizing teaching in the mother tongue programs and projects were created to develop the scientific
- Developing school infrastructure and providing or ICT literacy of the country.
broadband - Special science classes were organized and special science
- Local food security elementary schools were established in different regions.
2. Physics, Engineering and Industrial Research, Earth - Science and mathematics in basic education were
and Space Sciences and Mathematics continuously improved
- Emphasizing degrees, licenses, and employment - The current K to 12 education program included Science,
opportunities Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) as one
- Outright grants for peer monitoring of its major tracks in the senior high school program to
- Review of R.A. 9184 encourage more students to enroll in science – related fields
- Harnessing science and technology as an independent in college.
mover of development.
 The Philippine Congress has also created various 3. WILLIAM PADOLINA – chemistry and president of
laws related to science and technology. These laws serve as National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) -
a legal framework for science and technology in the Philippines
country. These laws vary according to different themes such 4. ANGEL ALCALA – marine science
as; conservation, health- related, technology – building, and
supporting basic research, among others. Some laws and
policies are in line with international treaties such as the
United Nation (UN), United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Association of
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and other international
agencies.

As shown in the diagram, the development of

policies in science and technology is shaped or influenced The concept of Science Education:
by several variables: policies need to be aligned to national - Science education focuses on teaching, learning, and
goals, consider international commitments based on legal understanding science.
frameworks, and respond to various social needs, issues and - Understanding science implies developing and applying
problems. Science and technology policies ensure that the science-process skills and using science literacy in
whole country and all people will experience the progress understanding the natural world and activities in everyday
that science can bring. Policies are guides to direct all life.
efforts to a goal of developing a scientifically advanced - Science education is justified by the vast amount of
country. scientific knowledge developed in this area that prepares
citizens in a scientifically and technologically driven world.
FAMOUS FILIPINOS IN THE FIELD OF SCIENCE • Science education provides skills and knowledge that are
These Filipino scientists have made significant necessary for a person to live in what Knight (1986)
contributions in Philippine science: describes as the age of science and to develop a citizenry
1. RAMON CABANOS BARBA – for his outstanding that will meet the goals of science in the society.
research on tissue culture in Philippine mangoes
2. JOSEFINO CACAS COMISO – for his works on SCIENCE EDUCATION IN BASIC AND TERTIARY
observing the characteristics of Antarctica by using EDUCATION
satellite images - In basic education, Science education helps students learn
3. JOSE BEJAR CRUZ, JR. – known internationally in the important concepts and facts that are related to everyday
field of electrical engineering; was elected as officer of the life (Carale & Campo 2003) including important skills such
famous Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineering as process skills, critical thinking skills, and life skills that
4. FABIAN MILLAR DAYRIT – for his research on herbal are needed in coping up with daily life activities.
medicine - Also develops positive attitude such as: the love for
5. GREGORY LIGOT TANGONAN – for his research in knowledge, passion for innovative things, curiosity to study
the field of Communications Technology about nature, and creativity (Lind, 1997).
6. LILIAN FORMALEJO PATENA– for doing research on - Science education will develop a strong foundation for
plant biotechnology studying science and for considering science-related careers
in the future.
Other outstanding Filipino scientists who are recognized - In tertiary education, science education deals with
here and abroad for their contributions in science: developing students’ understanding and appreciation of
1. CAESAR A. SALOMA – an internationally renowned science ideas scientific works.
physicist - Also focuses on the preparation of science teachers,
2. EDGARDO GOMEZ – famous scientist in marine scientists, engineers, and other professionals in various
science science –related fields such as engineering, agriculture,
medicine, and health sciences.
 independently and requires little directions from teachers, is
SCIENCE SCHOOLS IN THE PHILIPPINES (5) self-motivated in accomplishing his/her work another.
1. Philippine Science High School System (PSHSS) 4. On Leadership/Creativeness – the SSES pupils
- Government program for gifted students in the Philippines participates actively in school/community activities, is self-
- A service institute of the Department of Science and confident with children of his/her own age as well as adults,
Technology (DOST) whose mandate is to offer free initiates worthwhile activities, creates new ideas and
scholarship basis for secondary course with special products, gives original ideas or solutions to questions, has
emphasis on subjects for a science career. varied interests and abilities, etc.
- PSHSS continues to pursue its vision to develop Filipino The SSES utilizes Science curriculum that will
science scholars with scientific minds and passion for provide for the development of lifelong learning skills and
excellence. foster the holistic development of the child. The subject
2. Special Science Elementary Schools (SSES) Project of Science and Health is taught starting in Grade I and
the Department of Education (DepEd) provides longer instruction time in Science. In Grade I – III,
- Pursuance to DepEd Order No. 73 s. 2008 and DepEd 70 minutes and for Grade IV-VI, 8- minutes. The
Order No. 51 s. 2010. Curriculum also utilizes varied teaching approaches /
- Aims to develop Filipino children equipped with scientific strategies to address the multiple intelligences, learning
and technological knowledge, skills, and values. styles and needs of the learners.
- The curriculum also utilizes different instructional To enhance the operation of the project, financial
approaches that address the learning styles and needs of the subsidy is provided to the implementing schools for the
earners like the use of investigatory projects. enhancement of teachers and school heads capability and
Mission: participation to conferences, trainings, seminars and
- Provide a learning environment to science-inclined immersion training in science oriented schools,
children through a special curriculum that recognizes the development of pupil activities such as investigatory
multiple intelligences of the learners; projects, leadership training, workshops, payment of
- Promote the development of lifelong learning skills; and internet subscription, procurement of instructional
foster the holistic development of the learners. devices/facilities like science models, apparatuses, video
materials and software in Science, Mathematics and English
The SSES Project envisions developing Filipino including maintenance and repair of said facilities. The
children who are equipped with scientific and technological Manila Science High School (MaSci) was established in
knowledge, skills and attitudes, creative and have positive 1963. It was the first science high school in the country. It
values; and lifelong learning skills to become productive was patterned after the Bronx High School of New York.
partners in the development of the community and society. 1963 was when the first batch that entered the pilot science
Its mission is to provide a learning environment to science high school graduated. It started in 1959 with 36 students.
inclined children through a special curriculum which In 1964, the Philippine Science High School
recognizes multiple intelligences and is geared towards the (PSHS) was established. It was under the Department of
development of God- loving, nationalistic, creative, Science and Technology (DOST). The premier science high
ecologically aware, scientifically and technologically school in the country, it is considered among the top science
oriented and skilled individuals who are empowered high schools in the ASEAN. Aside from its main campus in
through lifelong learning skills. Diliman, Quezon City, it has 12 other regional campuses in
the Philippines.
The program has three components: The School, the Aside from the PSHS and the MaSci, other science
Learner and the Curriculum. The learners in the SSES must high schools were established to further spread the
exhibit the following characteristics: education of those inclined in the sciences. The Department
1. On Physical/Psychomotor – must generally be healthy, of Education (DepEd) through the Local Government Units
alert and active and has heightened sensory awareness. (LGUs) fund and administer these science high schools.
2. On Intellectual/Academic Aspect – acquires knowledge These are categorized accordingly:
fast and accurately, has quick mastery and recall of factual 1. Regional
information, superior reasoning ability, inquisitive and 2. Provincial
curious about a lot of things, observant and quick to note 3. City
details, reads books within and above his/her age, has a
ready grasp of underlying principles an can make valid 3). Quezon City Regional Science High School
generalizations, has a wide and well developed vocabulary, - School was established on September 17, 1967
has a large storehouse of information about variety of - Originally, it was named Quezon City Science High
topics, can concentrate for long period of time, can analyze School
ideas in different ways and other varied solutions to - The school was a product of a dream to establish a special
problems. science school for talented students in science and
3. On Social/Emotional/Motivational Aspect – must be technology.
adaptable and flexible, independent, enjoys doing
challenging and different tasks, prefers to work
- The school envisions to serve as a venue in providing  classifying plants and animals into families and groups
maximum opportunities for science-gifted students to based on cultural properties;
develop spirit of inquiry and creativity.  preserving and selecting good seeds for planting
4). Manila Science High School  using indigenous technology in daily lives;
- The school was established on October 1, 1963 as the  building local irrigation systems;
Manila Science High School (MSHS)  classifying different types of soil for planting based on
- First science high school in the Philippines cultural properties;
- The organization and curriculum of the school puts more  producing wines and juices from tropical fruits; and
emphasis on science and mathematics.
 keeping the custom of growing plants and vegetables in
- MSHS aims to produce scientists with souls
the yard.
5). Central Visayan Institute Foundation
- It is the home and pioneer of the prominent school-based
Indigenous Science
innovation known as the Dynamic Learning Program
Indigenous Science is part of the indigenous
(DLP).
knowledge system practices by different groups of people
- The DLP is a synthesis of classical and modern
and early civilizations (Gribbin, 2001). It includes complex
pedagogical theories adapted to foster the highest level of
arrays of knowledge, practices, representations that guide
learning, creativity, and productivity.
human societies in their enumerable interactions:
agriculture, medicine, strategies for coping with changing
Indigenous Knowledge System and Practices
environments.
Indigenous Knowledge Systems and Practices
Pawilen (2005) explained that indigenous science
(IKSPs) are local knowledge developed over centuries of
knowledge has developed diverse structures and contents
experimentation by our ancestors and are passed orally
through the interplay between the society and the
from generation to generation. It was proven to be a perfect
environment. Pawilen (2006) developed a simple
scaffold to sustainable development connecting the past,
framework for understanding indigenous science.
present and the future. However, these knowledge, systems
Accordingly, indigenous science is composed of traditional
and practices are at escalating rate of deterioration due to
knowledge that uses science process skills and guided by
consistent assimilation that resulted from the continuing
community values and nature.
loss of interest of these practices from young people. Thus,
empirical evidence to showcase importance to
environmental protection and cultural preservation are
encouraged. Likewise, studies connecting these indigenous
knowledge and practices to academic curriculum are highly
regarded to be influential in their preservation. According to
Baguilat (2009), IKSPs cover a broader scope that included Indigenous Science is important in the development
all traditional skills, laws, philosophy, rituals, livelihood, of science and technology in the Philippines. Like the
sciences and technologies of the community. IKSPs were ancient civilizations, indigenous science gave birth to the
incorporated in several public secondary subjects. development of science and technology as a field and as a
(Kinomis, X.2016). discipline. Indigenous science helped the people in
Indigenous knowledge is embedded in the daily life understanding the natural environment and in coping with
experiences of young children as they grow up. They live everyday life. UNESCO’s Declaration on Science and the
and grow in a society where the members of the community Use of Scientific Knowledge (1999) recognized indigenous
prominently practice indigenous knowledge. Their parents science as a historical and valuable contribution to science
and other older folks served as their first teachers and their and technology.
methods of teaching are very effective in transmitting Like Western Science (WS), Indigenous Science
cultural knowledge in their minds. The lessons they learned (IS) relies upon direct observation for forecasting and
are intimately interwoven with their culture and the generating predictions; its power lies in its ability to make
environment. These lessons comprised of good values connections and perceive patters across vast cycles of space
and life stories of people on their daily life struggles. Their and time. Indigenous scientists are trained in various
views about nature and their reflections on their experiences specializations such as herbalism, weather observations,
in daily life are evident in their stories, poems, and songs. mental health, and time keeping, and there are a test to
ensure IS validity.
Some examples of indigenous knowledge that are taught One marked difference between the two sciences:
and practiced by the indigenous people are: Data from IS, is not used to control the forces of nature, but
• Predicting weather conditions and seasons using instead is used to find methods and resources for
knowledge in observing animals’ behavior and celestial accommodating it. Other critical distinctions apply to IS,
bodies; including:
• using herbal medicine;
• preserving foods;
• Indigenous scientists are an integral part of the research their music, dances, rituals folklore, wood carvings, and
process and there is a defined process for ensuring this agriculture and forestry practices. For instance, they believe
integrity. that many endemic trees such as Ficus spp. are associated
• IS tries to understand and complete our relationships will with spirits (anito), so they conserved them (Lim et.al.
all living things. All of nature is considered to be intelligent 2012). Traditional forest-related knowledge: sustaining
and alive, thus an active research partner. communities, ecosystems and bicultural diversity. The
• The purpose of Indigenous Science is to maintain balance. indigenous peoples also observe customary laws that lay the
• IS collapses time and space; our fields of inquiry and foundation for justice, unity and peace within their tribes.
participation extend into and overlap with past and present. However, the advent of colonial rules from the
• IS is holistic, drawing on all senses, including the spiritual early 1700s to the late 1940s has led to the unabated influx
and psychic. of migrants into ancestral domains (Molintas J. 2004). The
• The end-point of an IS process is an exact balance where Philippine indigenous peoples’ struggle for land and life:
creativity occurs. challenging legal texts. This contributed to gradual changes
• We always remain embodies in the natural world. In other in many local practices and beliefs. For instance is the
words, when we reach the moment/place of balance, we do ingress of Christian missionaries introducing new faith,
not believe that we have “transcended”. Instead, we say that agricultural technologies to address food security, logging,
we are normal. construction of roads and other infrastructures for better
• Humor balances gravity and is a critical ingredient of all mobility, and formal educational systems.
truth seeking, even in the most powerful rituals.
Introduction
Indigenous knowledge can be broadly defined as Eudaimonia, literally “good spirited”, is a term
the knowledge that an indigenous (local) community coined by renowned Greek philosopher Aristotle (385-323
accumulates over generations of living in a particular B.C.) to describe the pinnacle of happiness that is attainable
environment. (Ryser RC. 2011). Available from: by humans. This has often been translated into “human
Indigenous forestry knowledge systems largely encompass flourishing” in literature, arguably likening humans to
local technologies, innovations, know-how, skills, practices flowers achieving their full bloom. As discusses in the
and beliefs uniting local people to conserve forest resources Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle‟s human flourishing arises
and their cultural views. These have developed over as a result of different components such as phronesis,
thousands of years of direct human contact with the friendship, wealth and power. In the Ancient Greek society,
environment (Armstrong et al. 2006). they believe that acquiring these qualities will surely bring
Education and research opportunities for traditional the seekers happiness, which in effect allows them to
ecological knowledge. Traditional knowledge often refers partake in the greater notion of what we call the Good.
to a more generalized expression of knowledge associating As times change, elements that comprise human
a people or peoples with “timehonored” ideas and practices flourishing changed, which are subject to the dynamic
associated with an individual or family (Ryser RC. 2011). social history as written by humans. People found means to
Indigenous people and traditional knowledge. This live more comfortably, explore more places, develop more
knowledge is not limited to know-how, skills, innovations, products, and make more money. Our concept of human
practices, process, learning and teaching, but also includes flourishing today proves to be different from what Aristotle
knowledge that is associated with biodiversity, traditional originally perceived then –humans of today are expected to
lifestyles and natural resources (WIPO 2012-World become a “man of the world”. He is supposed to situate
Intellectual Property Organization). While distinctions exist himself in a global neighborhood, working side by side
between the meanings of the terms, there is also sufficient among institutions and the government to be able to reach a
overlap; hence, indigenous knowledge is often equated or common goal.
used interchangeable with the term traditional knowledge, Interestingly, there exists a discrepancy between
local knowledge, traditional forestry practices, indigenous eastern and western conception regarding society and
practices and indigenous knowledge systems. human flourishing. It has been observed that western
In the Philippines, about 14-17 million of the total civilization tends to be more focused on the individual,
population are indigenous peoples belonging to 110 ethno- while those from the east are more community-centric.
linguistic groups mainly concentrated in Northern Luzon Human flourishing as an end then is primarily more of a
(33%) and Mindanao (61%), with few groups in the concern for western civilizations over eastern ones. This is
Visayas area (UNDP, 2010 United Nations Development not to discredit our kinsfolk from the east; perhaps in their
Program Philippines). Many of these indigenous peoples view, community takes the highest regard that the
can be found in remote forested and hilly uplands. Some individual should sacrifice himself for the sake of the
have also stood their ground successfully and maintained a society. This is apparent in the Chinese Confucian system
close link with their ancestral past. (Molintas, J.2004). or the Japanese Bushido, both of which view the whole as
Many indigenous peoples in the Philippines such as greater than their components. The Chinese and the
the Ifugaos in Cordillera Mountains continued to thrive I Japanese encourage studies of literature, sciences, and art,
their relatively remote and yet self-sufficient communities. not entirely for oneself but in service of a greater cause.
They were able to uphold their traditions as reflected in
 The Greek Aristotelian view, on the other hand, use the scientific method to gather measurable, empirical
aims for eudaimonia as the ultimate good; there is no evidences / data in an experiment related to a hypothesis,
indication whatsoever that Aristotle entailed it instrumental thus the results aims to support or contradict a theory.
to achieve some other goals.
Steps of the Scientific Method
Principles of Human Flourishing 1. Observe and determine if there are unexplained
1. Dignity of the Human person – innate personal values occurrences unfolding.
or rights which demands respect for all people, regardless 2. Determine the problem and identify factors involved.
of race, social class, wealth, etc. 3. Through past knowledge of similar instance, formulate
2. Common good – sacrificing self-interest to provide for hypothesis that could explain the said phenomenon.
the basic human needs of everyone makes the whole 4. Conduct experiment by setting up dependent and
community flourish. independent variables, and trying to see how independent
3. Preferential Option for the Poor – when decisions are ones affect dependent ones.
made by first considering the poor. 5. Gather and analyze results throughout and upon
4. Subsidarity – when all those affected by a decision are culmination of the experiment. Examine if the data gathered
involved in making it. are significant enough to conclude results.
5. Universal Purpose of Goods – the Earth‟s resources 6. Formulate conclusion and provide recommendation in
serve every person‟s needs, regardless of who “owns” case others would want to broaden the study.
them. The above routine is basic methodology when
6. Stewardship of Creation – duty to care for the Earth as introducing them to experimentation and empiricism – two
a (God-given) gift is a personal responsibility for the distinct features that give science edge over other schools of
common good. thought.
7. Promotion of Peace – everyone has the duty to respect
and collaborate in personal relationships, and at national Verification Theory
and global levels. The earliest criterion that distinguishes philosophy
8. Participation – everyone has the right and the duty to and science is verification theory. The idea proposes that a
take part in the life of a society (economic, political, discipline is science if it can be confirmed or interpreted in
cultural, and religious) the event of an alternative hypothesis being accepted. Said
9. Global Solidarity – recognition that we are all theory gives premium to empiricism and only takes into
interconnected, part of one human family. account those results which are measurable and experiments
which are repeatable.
Science, Technology and Human Flourishing
“The Science of Human Flourishing” is a bold and Falsification Theory
ambitious new project, leaders in the fields of science, Perhaps the current prevalent methodology in
technology and theology would gather to examine some of science, falsification theory asserts that as long as an
the key elements that contribute to human flourishing. ideology is not proven to be false and can best explain a
Every discovery, innovation, and success contributes to our phenomenon over alternative theories, we should accept the
pool of human knowledge. Perhaps, one of the most said ideology. Due to its hospitable character, the shift to
prevalent themes is human‟s perpetual need to locate this theory allowed emergence of theories otherwise
himself in the world by finding proofs to trace evolution. rejected by verification theory. It does not promote ultimate
Human flourishing is deeply intertwined with goal setting adoption of one theory but instead encourages research in
relevant to science and technology. The latter is relevant as order to determine which among the theories can stand the
a tool in achieving the former or echoing Heidegger‟s test of falsification. The strongest one is that which is
statement, technology is a human activity that we excel in able to remain upheld amidst various tests, while being able
as a result of achieving science. Both science and to make particularly risky predictions about the world. Karl
technology and human flourishing are related, in that the Popper is the known proponent of this view.
good is inherently related to the truth. The following are
two concepts about science which ventures its claim on Science as a Social Endeavor
truth. Science is done by unique individuals- not by
automated robots. Science is embedded within a global
Science as Method and Results scientific community. This community provides cultural
According to Bradford, 2017, science is the word norms, expectations, and accumulated knowledge, which
for systematic and logical approach to discovering how the are essential to the expansion of scientific knowledge. A
universe works. It is also „the body of knowledge‟ new school of thought on the proper demarcation criterion
accumulated through the findings pertaining to the things in of science emerged. Several philosophers presented an
the universe. True to this definition, science is rather based alternative demarcation that explores the social dimension
on fact and not an opinion or preferences; science aims for of science and effectively, technology. The new view
qualitative and /or quantitative results acquired through perpetuates a dimension which generally benefits the
testing and analysis. When conducting research, researchers society.
 MDG 5 : Improve maternal health
Science and Results MDG 6 : Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases
Results are results. These are the outcome from the MDG 7 : Ensure environmental sustainability
hypotheses formulated and the analyzed data molding the MDG 8 : A global partnership for development
conclusions or simply the results. Generally, the important
results of a study are the mere answers to the specific SUMMARY
questions that study set out to find: the reply to the specific. Human flourishing is defined as being “good
A scientific result must always be objective; it must be spirited” in the classical Aristotelian notion. Humans
stated as derived fact. generally have a notion on what it means to flourish; albeit
For the most part, people who do not understand in the advent of science and technology, they close to hinge
science are won over when the discipline is able to produce their ends alongside the latter’s results. While it is true that
results. In this particular argument, however, science is not science equips its knowers some details about the world, its
the only discipline which is able to produce results – main claim to objectivity and systematic methodology is at
religion, luck, and human randomness are some of its the very least flawed. However, that does not stop
contemporaries in the field. For some communities without institutions to favor those who excel in said discipline.
access to science, they can turn to divination and Finally, the economic perception of enrichment, otherwise
superstition and still get the same results. known as growth, is heavily fueled by technology and
should be impeded. We have to rethink of our perception of
Science as Education a good life apart from one presented in this regard.
Science is defined as the “the intellectual and
practical activity that encompasses the systematic study of Introduction
the structure of the physical and natural world through In ancient Greece, long before the word “science”
observation and experiment”. Science relies on the has been coined, the need to understand the world and
accumulation of previously acquired knowledge. There are reality was bound with the need to understand the self and
distinct portions in entrance exams in the secondary and the good life. For Plato, the task of understanding the things
tertiary levels that are dedicated to science and in the world runs parallel with the job of truly getting into
mathematics. In the Philippines, there are more college what will make the soul flourish. In an attempt to
students enrolled in STEM strand than any other strands. understand reality and the external world, man must seek to
One might infer that there is more demand in this field as understand himself, too. It was Aristotle who gave a
students are preconditioned that the field would latter land definitive distinction between the theoretical and practical
them high-paying jobs and a lucrative career after sciences. Among the theoretical disciplines: Aristotle
graduation. included logic, biology, physics, and metaphysics, among
Science education is one of the important subjects others. Among the practical ones, Aristotle counted ethics
in school due to its relevance to students‟ live and the and politics. Whereas, “truth” is the aim of the theoretical
universally applicable problem-solving and critical thinking sciences, the “good” is the end goal of the practical ones.
skills it uses and develops. These are lifelong skills that Every attempt to know is connected in some way in an
allow students to generate ideas, weigh decisions attempt to find the “good”, the attainment of human
intelligently and even understand the evidence behind flourishing. Rightly so, one must find the truth about what
public policy – making. Teaching technological literacy, the good is before one can even try to locate that which is
critical thinking and problem-solving through science good.
education gives students the skills and knowledge they need
to succeed in school and beyond. Aristotle and How We All Aspire for a Good Life
It is interesting to note that the first philosopher,
How Much is Too Much? who approached the problem of reality from a “scientific”
Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) lens as we know now, is also the first thinker who dabbed
The United Nations Millennium Development into the complex problematization of the end goal of life:
Goals (MDGs) are eight (8) goals that UN Member States happiness. This man is none other than Aristotle.
have agreed to try to achieve by the year 2015. The United Compared to his teacher and predecessor, Plato,
Nations Millennium Declaration, signed in September Aristotle embarked on a different approach in figuring out
2000, commits world leaders to combat poverty, hunger, reality. In contrast to Plato who thought that things in this
disease, illiteracy, environmental degradation, and world are not real and are only copies of the real in the
discrimination against women. The MDGs are derived from world of form, Aristotle puts everything back to the ground
this Declaration. Each MDG has targets set for 2015 and in claiming that this world is all there is to it and that this
indicators to monitor progress from 1990 levels. Several of world is the only reality we can all access. For Plato,
these relate directly to health. change is so perplexing that it can only make sense if there
MDG 1 : Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger are two realities: the world of forms and the world of
MDG 2 : Achieve universal primary education matter. Plato recognized change as a process and as a
MDG 3 : Promote gender equality and empower women phenomenon that happens in the world, that in fact, it is
MDG 4 : Reduce child mortality constant. However, Plato also claims that despite the reality
of change, things remain and they retain their ultimate happiness. We see this at work with most people who are
“whatness”. Plato was convinced that reality is full of these clinging on to material wealth as the primary source of the
seemingly contrasting manifestations of change and meaning of their existence.
permanence. For Plato, this can only be explained by
postulating two aspects or reality, two worlds if you wish: Hedonism
the world of forms and the world of matter. In the world of The Hedonists, for their part, see the end goal of
matter, things are changing and impermanent. In the world life in acquiring pleasure. Pleasure has always been the
of forms, the entities are only copies of the ideal and the priority of hedonists. For them, life is about obtaining and
models, and the forms are the only real entities. Things are indulging in pleasure because life is limited. The mantra of
red in this world because they participate in what it means this school of thought is the famous, “Eat, drink, and be
to be red in the world of forms. merry, for tomorrow we die.” Led by Epicurus, this school
Aristotle, for his part, disagreed with his teacher’s of thought also does not buy any notion of afterlife just like
position and forwarded the idea that there is no reality over the materialists.
and above what the senses can perceive. As such, it is only
by observation of the external world that one can truly Stoicism
understand what is really is all about. Change is a process Another school of thought led by Epicurus, the
that is inherent in things. We, along with the other entities stoics espoused the idea that to generate happiness, one
in the world, start as potentialities and move toward must learn to distance oneself and be apathetic. For the
actualities. The movement, of course, entails change. original term apatheia, precisely means to be indifferent.
Aristotle extends his analysis from the external world into The stoics, happiness can only be attained by a careful
the province of the human person and declared that even practice of apathy. Adopt the fact that some things are not
human beings are potentialities who aspire for their within our control. The sooner we realize this, the happier
actuality. Every human being moves according to some end. we can be.
Every action that emanates from a human person is a
function of the purpose (telos) that the person has.Every Theism
human person, according to Aristotle, aspires for an end. Most people find the meaning of their lives using
No individual resists happiness. We want to be God as the fulcrum of their existence. The Philippines, as a
happy. Aristotle claims that happiness is the be-all and end- predominantly Catholic country, is witness to how people
all of everything that we do. We may not realize it but the base their life goals on beliefs that hinged on some form of
end goal of everything that we do is happiness. What supernatural reality called heaven. The ultimate basis of
Aristotle actually means is human flourishing; a kind of happiness for theists is the communication with God. The
contentment in knowing that one is getting the best out of world where we are in is only just temporary reality where
life. A kind of feeling that one has maxed out his potential we have to maneuver around while waiting for the ultimate
in the world; that he has attained the crux of his humanity. return to the hands of God.

Happiness as the Goal of a Good Life Humanism

In the 18th century, John Stuart Mill, declared the Humanism as another school of thought espouses
Greatest Happiness Principle by saying that an action is the freedom of man to carve his own destiny and to legislate
right as far as it maximizes the attainment of happiness for his own laws, free from the shackles of a God that monitors
the greatest number of people. Mill said that the individual and controls. To the humanist, man is literally the captain of
happiness of each individual should be prioritized and his own ship, inspired by enlightenment.
collectively dictates the kind of action that should be In the seventeenth century, humanists saw
endorsed. themselves not merely as stewards of the creation but as
The ethical is, of course, meant to lead us to the individuals who are in control of themselves and the world
good and happy life. Through the ages, man has constantly outside them. This is the spirit of most scientists who
struggled with the external world in order to reach human thought that the world is a place and space for freely
flourishing. History has given birth to different schools of unearthing the world in seeking for ways on how to
thought, all of which for the good and happy life. improve the lives of its inhabitants.
The scientists of today, meanwhile, are ready to
Materialism confront more sophisticated attempts at altering the world
The first materialists are the atomists in Ancient for the benefit of society. Some people now are willing to
Greece. Democritus and Leucippus led a school whose tamper with time and space in the name of technology. As
primary belief is that the world is made up of and is an example, social media has been, so far, a very effective
controlled by the tiny indivisible units in the world called way of employing technology in purging time and space.
atomos or seeds. For Democritus and his disciples, the Whether agree or not with technological advancements,
world, including human beings, is made up of matter. these are all undertaken in the hopes of achieving a good
Atomos simply comes together randomly to form the things life. The balance between the good life, ethics, and
in the world. Only material entities matter. In terms of technology has to be attained.
human flourishing, matter is what makes us attain
SUMMARY
Man is constantly in pursuit of the good life. Every
person has his perspective when it comes to what comprises
the good life. Throughout history, man has worked hard in
pointing out what amounts to a good, happy life. Some
people like the classical theorists thought that happiness has
to do with the insides of the human person. The soul, as the
seat of our humanity, has been the focus of attention of this
end goal. The soul has to attain a certain balance in order to
have a good life, a life of flourishing. It was only until the
seventeenth century that happiness became a centerpiece in
the lives of people, even becoming a full-blown ethical
foundation in John Stuart Mill’s utilitarianism. At present,
we see multitudes of schools of thought that all promise
their own key to finding happiness. Science and technology
has been, for the most part, at the forefront of man’s
attempts at finding this happiness. The only question at the
end of the day is whether science is taking the right path
toward attaining what it really means to live a good life.