POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE OF DAVAO DEL SUR INC.

MAC ARTHUR HIGHWAY, BRGY. KIAGOT, DIGOS CITY

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY

Submitted by:
Erika V. Taguran

Submitted to:
Ma. Rissa Mae T. Entero

May 24, 2024

 Table of Content

Module 2
Section 1: Technology as a way of revealing...........................................1
At a glance: who is Martin Heidegger?............................................1
The Essence of Technology............................................................2
Technology as a Way of Revealing..................................................3
Technology as Poiesis: Does Modern Technology
Bring Forth or Challenge Forth?......................................................4
Enframing as Modern Technology’s Way of Revealing.......................5
The Dangers of Technology............................................................6
Art as the Saving Power.................................................................7
Questioning as the Piety of Thought................................................8
Section 2: Human flourishing in progress and de-development..............9
Thoughts to Ponder........................................................................9
Forget ‘developing’ poor countries, it’s time to
‘de-develop’ rich countries...............................................................10
Section 3: The good life.............................................................................11
Aristotle’s Nichomachean ethics and the good life.............................11
Eudaimonia: The Ultimate God........................................................12
Eudaimonia: Uniquely Human..........................................................13
Arête and human happiness............................................................14
What then is the good life?.............................................................15
Section 4: When technology and humanity cross....................................16
Section 5: Why the future does not need us.............................................17
SECTION 1
Technology as a Way of Revealing
At a glance: who is Martin Heidegger?

Martin Heidegger, a prominent 20th-century German philosopher, is best known

for his work in existential phenomenology and his exploration of being. In reflecting
on Heidegger's view of technology as a way of revealing, one recognizes that
technology is not merely a collection of tools but a framework through which
humans interact with and understand the world. According to Heidegger, technology
changes how we see the world by presenting it in particular ways and frequently
treating nature as a resource that can be used for profit. This point of view
challenges us to think about the effects of technology breakthroughs and how they
affect how we interact with the environment and one another.

Heidegger's observation emphasizes the fact that although technology might

improve human life, it can also cause our worldview to become more limited such
that everything is viewed only from the perspective of efficiency. This idea promotes
analyzing technology's impact on society structures and values critically. By viewing
technology as a means of revelation, we have a responsibility to consider its wider
implications for both human existence and the environment.

In conclusion, Martin Heidegger's exploration of technology as a way of revealing

challenges us to look beyond the superficial utility of technological advancements
and consider their deeper implications on our perception of reality and our
relationship with the world. We have to critically consider the ethical and existential
aspects of our technological advancement when we view technology not just as tools
but also as a framework that influences how we interact with our surroundings and
one another.
The Essence of Technology

Martin Heidegger's "The Essence of Technology" focuses into the philosophical

foundations of technology, seeking to understand its fundamental character beyond
simple tools and instruments. Heidegger argues that technology is a method of
disclosing the world, a style of life that influences how we engage with reality.
Rather of viewing technology as neutral, he believes that it shapes our perception
and relationship with environment, frequently turning it to a resource to be
exploited. Heidegger claimed that this instrumentalist viewpoint may alter the true
nature of existence and cause a person to feel cut off from the outside world.

In conclusion, Martin Heidegger encourages us to look beyond the practical

purposes of technology and to reconsider how we relate to it. He also emphasizes
how, when used carefully, technology has the power to illuminate important truths
about our existence. Heidegger encourages a balanced approach to technology that
embraces advancements in the field while also honoring the fundamental qualities of
existence. This complex viewpoint encourages a more thoughtful and deliberate
approach to incorporating technology into our daily lives, making sure that it
enhances rather than separates from the human experience.
Technology as a Way of Revealing

Technology as a Way of Revealing" holds that technology is a fundamental way

that humans perceive and engage with the world, not just a set of instruments. By
structuring our understanding and experiences, technology, according to Martin
Heidegger, reveals parts of reality. On the other hand, this process of revelation has
a double-edged effect: although it might open our eyes to new possibilities and
insights, it can also diminish nature and life to nothing more than objects to be
managed and used for pleasure. The natural world and our deeper nature can
become strange to us when we adopt such a limiting perspective.

In conclusion, seeing technology as a means of revealing requires us to analyze its

impact on our sense of reality. By cultivating a conscious relationship with
technology, we may ensure that it improves our understanding and connection to
the world rather than diminishing it. This reflective attitude enables us to get the
benefits of technology while keeping faithful to the core of our being.
Technology as Poiesis: Does Modern Technology
Bring Forth or Challenge Forth?

This explores how technology is a dual means of revelation. Technology can enrich
human experience and reveal hidden truths about the world when it is viewed as a
poiesis, opening up new avenues for exploration and greater knowledge. But
Heidegger's phrase "challenging forth," which refers to the way technology may
encourage resource extraction and impose an ordering upon nature, is frequently
applied to modern technology. This kind of technology has a tendency to take over
and exert control, turning the natural world into a mere resource that can be used
for profit. A separation from the inherent worth of nature and environmental
damage may result from such an approach.

In the end, modern technology has the ability to create as well as challenge. The
task is to intentionally choose to create and use technology in ways that promote
poiesis, creativity, sustainability, and a stronger connection with the earth. This
allows us to utilize technology's revolutionary power while still respecting nature's
integrity and human existence.
Enframing as Modern Technology’s Way of Revealing

Enframing as Modern Technology's Way of Revealing" explores into Martin

Heidegger's notion of "enframing" which examines how technology changes and
restricts our vision of reality. Enframing shows the world as a standing reserve, a
collection of resources to be managed and utilized. This technological attitude tends
to reduce nature and even humans to mere utilitarian objects, hiding their true
worth and complexity.

It is possible to view technology as an instrument that both reveals and conceals

parts of reality, though, if enframing is acknowledged as a form of revealing. This
awareness calls into question and evaluates our connection with technology,
promoting a more conscious and moral use of it. We may work to strike a balance
between the advancement of technology and a greater regard for both people and
the natural world by being aware of the limitations placed by enframing.

In conclusion, enframing demonstrates modern technology's tremendous impact

on our perspective, which frequently reduces everything to a resource. Recognizing
this influence enables us to limit its reductive consequences and pursue a more
peaceful relationship with technology. Taking a critical approach to framing can help
us use technology in ways that respect the fundamental value of nature and human
life.
The Dangers of Technology

Since technology is advancing at quickly and has many advantages, there are also
major risks. As digital surveillance grows more complex and widespread, one of the
main concerns is the erosion of privacy. Losing one's sense of independence and
gaining more social control may result from this invasion. A detachment from the
real world can also be facilitated by an excessive reliance on technology, which can
diminish interpersonal relationships and social connections.

While technology has enormous potential for growth, it also carries considerable
risks that must be carefully considered and managed. Balancing technical progress
with ethical principles and sustainable development is critical for reducing these
risks. By taking a thoughtful and ethical approach, society may reap the benefits of
technology while mitigating its negative consequences.
Art as the Saving Power

Heidegger argues that whereas technology has the ability to severely restrict
human perception, art has the capacity to provide a more complete and genuine
comprehension of life. It draws attention to the complexity and diversity of the
human experience, challenging the simplistic perspective imposed by technology.
People can develop awe, empathy, and an understanding of the complexity and
beauty of life by interacting with art. By fostering a more humanistic and balanced
viewpoint, this engagement challenges the instrumentalist and utilitarian perspective
of technology framing.

In conclusion, art is a necessary saving power in a technologically driven world. It

provides an important balance to the potential isolation and reductionist methods of
technology growth by encouraging a deeper, more meaningful connection to our
humanity. By accepting and supporting creative pursuits, society may ensure that
the enriching and enlightening parts of human existence are preserved and honored
in the face of technological advancement.
Questioning as the Piety of Thought
Heidegger highlights that genuine piety in thought is a sincere dedication to
questioning and delving into the mysteries of life rather than blindly following
traditional beliefs. This type of inquiry is respectful and shows a great regard for
life's mystery and complications. We can cultivate intellectual humility and openness
by consistently challenging presumptions and expanding our viewpoints through
questioning. It prevents the stagnation that results from routines and unquestioned
ideas by keeping our minds busy and interested. This kind of thinking invites us to
investigate beyond our surface-level perceptions and connect with the substance of
things in order to establish a stronger relationship to the world.

In conclusion, questioning as piety of thought is an essential discipline for building

a meaningful and enlightened life. It promotes ongoing exploration and reflection,
allowing us to manage every aspect of life with curiosity and regard. Embracing this
method assures that our intellectual and spiritual development is dynamic and
deeply placed in a real desire to comprehend.
SECTION 2
Human flourishing in progress and de-development
Thoughts to Ponder

The book "Thoughts to Ponder" encourages thought and reflection on life's

deeper issues. Reflecting on our values, beliefs, and objectives helps us to re-
establish a connection with our inner selves in a world that is constantly changing.
Developing a greater understanding of our role in the world and a stronger sense of
self might come from these reflective times. Their questions about happiness,
meaning, and our influence on others force us to reflect on what is really important.

Thinking things through can also help us make decisions more clearly and make
sure that our actions are consistent with our guiding values. It increases our
enjoyment of the current moment by promoting awareness and presence. Profound
reflection may produce insights that promote personal development and
transformation, pointing us in the direction of a more purposeful and meaningful
existence.
Forget ‘developing’ poor countries, it’s time to ‘de-develop’ rich countries

In his essay "Forget 'Developing' Poor Countries, It's Time to 'De-develop' Rich
Countries," Jason Hickel encourages us to reconsider the paradigms of global
development. According to Hickel, the conventional strategy of developing less
developed countries to equalize their levels of consumption with those of developed
countries is unfair and unsustainable. Instead, he suggests that wealthy countries
reduce their consumption and resource extraction in order to establish a more
sustainable and balanced global order. This concept contradicts the widely held
notion that economic expansion and high levels of consumption are prerequisites for
progress.

Hickel's perspective encourages us to consider the environmental and social costs

of maintaining the current development model, which often leads to ecological
degradation and global inequality. By advocating for de-development, he shifts the
focus towards reducing carbon footprints, conserving resources, and promoting a
fairer distribution of wealth and opportunities.

In conclusion, Jason Hickel suggests a fundamental reconsideration of

international development strategies in his essay "Forget 'Developing' Poor
Countries, It's Time to 'De-develop' Rich Countries." Hickel pushes us to move away
from unsustainable consumption patterns and toward a more fair and ecologically
balanced society by arguing for the de-development of wealthy nations. This
perspective emphasizes that environmental sustainability, communal well-being, and
quality of life are more important for true human flourishing than financial success.
SECTION 3
The good life
Aristotle’s Nichomachean ethics and the good life

The Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle offers significant new perspectives on the idea
of the good life. True happiness, as compared to transient pleasures, comes from
leading a life filled with moral behavior that makes sense. This requires identifying
the "golden mean," or equilibrium, between excess and insufficiency in a range of
aspects of life. The ethics of Aristotle sets a strong emphasis on the development of
moral character and characteristics like bravery, temperance, and justice. According
to him, people can reach their full potential and live peacefully in their societies by
cultivating these virtues, which are learned via consistent practice. The notion that
thoughtful reflection and sensible judgment are necessary elements of the ideal
existence lies at the heart of Aristotle's philosophy.

Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics provides a comprehensive framework for

understanding the good life as one rooted in virtue and reason. Aristotle's focus on
the development of moral character and the habitual practice of virtues underscores
the importance of personal growth and ethical conduct. Aristotle's belief in the
significance of intellectual contemplation and practical wisdom highlights the need
for thoughtful engagement with the world and his vision extends beyond individual
fulfillment, advocating for a life that contributes to the common good and fosters a
thriving community. Aristotle's ethics offers a timeless guide for achieving a
meaningful and harmonious life, where personal and societal well-being are deeply
interconnected.
Eudaimonia: The ultimate God

If we think of eudaimonia as the ultimate good, we see it as an ideal that goes

beyond happiness to symbolize the fullest possible state of human flourishing. Living
according to virtue is emphasized by Aristotle's concept of eudaimonia, which holds
that pursuing moral perfection is the path to ultimate fulfillment. This concept
pushes us to think about the moral implications of our choices and the larger picture
of our life. A balanced lifestyle that fosters both individual development and group
well-being leads to eudaimonia, which is a long-lasting state of being rather than a
transient condition.

In order to achieve eudaimonia, we must always strive to nurture characteristics

like bravery, knowledge, and justice that lead us to make reasonable choices. It
motivates us to engage in activities that are essentially satisfying and benefit
society. By aiming for eudaimonia, we connect our lives to a higher purpose and
derive satisfaction from the process of moral development and upholding our moral
principles. Eudaimonia is ultimately an aspirational ideal that calls on us to behave
morally and deliberately in order to promote both the good of the whole and the
happiness of each individual.
Eudaimonia: Uniquely human

Eudaimonia as uniquely human highlights the distinctiveness of our capacity for

rationality and moral virtue. Humans are different from other creatures in that they
can reason, make moral decisions, and strive for a meaningful life. The idea of
eudaimonia, as proposed by Aristotle, highlights the significance of living in
accordance with our higher capacities, which distinguish humans from other species
and include reason and moral judgment. In addition to meeting our basic
requirements, eudaimonia requires the pursuit of moral and intellectual perfection.

This goal involves the ongoing development of virtues like bravery, temperance,
and knowledge that help us overcome obstacles in life and improve the lives of
others. A condition of wholeness, eudaimonia unites individual development with the
common good, mirroring our distinct social structure and interconnectedness. It
promotes activities that are both socially and emotionally fulfilling, giving us a feeling
of fulfillment and purpose. Eudaimonia ultimately serves as a reminder of our
capacity to live full, meaningful lives by cultivating virtue and using reason to reach
a balance that fosters both society and individual happiness. This is what makes
eudaimonia distinctively human.
Arête and human happiness

The idea of areté, or excellence, and how it relates to happiness in human’s sheds
light on the fundamental link between morality and wellbeing. Areté, a term from
classical Greek philosophy, describes the idea of realizing one's potential and
achieving excellence in every aspect of life. The aim of accomplishment is organically
linked to achieving happiness and is not just a means to an end. True happiness, or
eudaimonia, according to Aristotle, is the outcome of leading a morally upright and
reasoned life.

The basis for a happy and meaningful life, arete is essential to the Aristotelian
concept of eudaimonia. Developing virtues like justice, courage, and wisdom helps
us live happier lives by directing our behaviors in accordance with our higher selves.
In addition to improving our own well-being, aiming for excellence in our pursuits
also makes a good contribution to the flourishing of society. Arete encourages us to
strive for moral perfection and self-improvement because she knows that living up to
our full potential is the only way to truly be happy. In the end, the pursuit of areté
emphasizes the intrinsic link between virtue and happiness and is a crucial part of
the human drive for fulfillment and thriving.
What then is the Good life?

The question "What then is the Good life?" encourages thoughtful consideration of
the essential elements of fulfillment and human existence. Philosophers have
discussed and proposed several routes to a meaningful and satisfying existence
throughout history. Some contend that Aristotle's ideas on virtue and moral integrity
that is, living sensibly and developing virtues are the foundation of the good life and
that pursuing these ideals is the path to ultimate happiness.

A successful personal life, overall wellbeing, and pursuing one's own ambitions are
frequently connected to leading a good life. Maintaining balance among career
success, interpersonal connection and well-being, is important. A sense of purpose
or contribution to something bigger than oneself, presence, and mindfulness are all
emphasized by others.

In conclusion, the good life is a comprehensive idea that includes ethical living,
personal fulfillment, and a healthy balance of life elements. While definitions differ,
common threads include the search of happiness, meaningful relationships, personal
development, and beneficial societal contributions. Lastly, the good life is a very
personal journey influenced by individual ideals and circumstances.
SECTION 4
When technology and humanity cross
A dynamic and transformative area where innovation and human experience meet
is the intersection of technology and humanity. Our interactions with the outside
world, and communication styles are being changed by the increasing integration of
technology into our life. As innovations create previously unheard-of advantages but
also present existential and ethical dilemmas, this convergence offers both
opportunities and challenges. Careful consideration of how technology affects human
values, relationships, and well-being is necessary when navigating this complex
interaction. Human-centered innovation is necessary to strike a balance between
advancement and the preservation of humanity's core values.

It is essential that we approach technology with a human-centered perspective as

we negotiate this intersection, making sure that innovation advances the dignity and
well-being of people as well as communities. We can protect the core of what it
means to be human while utilizing technology's transformational potential through
ethical norms, proactive regulation, and dialogue. In the end, as we negotiate the
complexity of the digital era, the junction of technology and humanity asks us to
consider our common values, obligations, and goals.
SECTION 5
Why the future does not need us
The essay "Why the Future Does Not Need Us" by William Nelson Joy encourages
thoughtful consideration of the relationship between ethics, technology, and
humanity. Joy raises concerns about the potentially devastating consequences of
unchecked technological advancement, particularly in the fields of genetics,
nanotechnology, and robotics. He warns that the rapid development of these
technologies could lead to existential threats such as the creation of unstoppable
self-replicating entities or the erosion of human agency.

Joy's observations make us think about the ethical implications of our technology
endeavors and the significance of being cautious and creative in their development
and also highlights the importance of strong moral frameworks to direct
technological advancement and guarantee that it is in the best interests of humanity.
He emphasized how crucial it is to promote interdisciplinary communication and
cooperation in order to handle the difficult ethical challenges that developing
technology provide.

In conclusion, "Why the Future Does Not Need Us" encourages us to embrace
technological growth mindfully and with humility, acknowledging that our choices
may have an impact on future generations. Joy's essay challenges us to reflect
carefully and make informed decisions in order to guide technology toward a bright
and sustainable future for all people. It is a call to action for people, governments,
and technology professionals to take the lessons learned from the past seriously and
work toward creating a future shaped by moral standards and humanistic ideals.