What technology would you be better off without, why?
Key Takeaways
- Archimedes’ Principle highlights the historical relationship between science and technology, showing how discoveries can shape practical applications.
- Technology represents the application of scientific knowledge to improve human life, evolving from ancient inventions to modern advancements.
- Science and technology are interconnected, with science providing knowledge and technology transforming that knowledge for societal benefit.
- The article discusses both constructive and destructive uses of technology, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations in its application.
- To sum up, technology itself is neutral; its value depends on how humans choose to use it, requiring careful and responsible management.
Introduction
Eureka! Eureka!!
Shouting and running without clothes, excited Archimedes started running and yelling.
While bathing he dipped himself in a tub brimmed with water. The water overflowed. It struck the mind of the great ancient Greek Mathematician, Engineer, Physicist, Astronomer and Inventor who danced with ecstasy. Later, he propounded his theory that children are now learning in their basic classes, as Archimedes’ Principle. Centuries later, it has become unnoticeably common. Using this simple (?) knowledge, humans made boats to cross rivers. Huge ships sailed far and wide and won decisive wars using huge warships. In modern times, Ponderous modern warships are like a floating airstrip.
What is Technology
Using scientific knowledge to ease lives and improve their quality is what we call technology, which has been serving humans since ancient times. Britannica says, “Technology is the application of scientific knowledge to the practical aims of human life or, as it is sometimes phrased, to the change and manipulation of the human environment.”
Science and Technology
Science and technology are intertwined; both are two faces of a single coin. While science deciphers intricate natural secrets and makes them available to humanity, technology transforms that information for human welfare.
Technology in the Service of Humanity
Technology started its role of serving humanity a millennium years ago (Fourth millennium BC) when humans invented wheels. The small circular disc has undergone many changes since then and continues serving humanity in many ways. We see them every day in carts, bicycles, cars, trucks, tractors and aeroplanes but have hardly realized about the time and the application of mind when it was invented. The progression of science and technology is continuing since then and it will continue till humanity survives. How do you perceive it, please share your views in the comment box below.
The Journey
Looking back on the breakthrough discoveries and inventions which changed human history reveals a lot about understanding things from the right perspective. From the prehistoric days when humans were learning to ease their lives to modern humans with well-knit society and organised way of life, the journey of humans is not only thrilling but a comprehensive saga of struggle, unflinching zeal and motivation. Using scientific knowledge, and adopting technological know-how, humans developed things that were beneficial to a broader spectrum of human beings.
Humanity and Science
Benjamin Franklin was the first to show that thunder in clouds is electricity through his famous experiment of kite flying. He is credited with inventing electricity. Michael Faraday later discovered electromagnetism, which paved the way for the development of electric motors. From the discovery of X-ray and its beneficial use to discovering radioisotopes, the list is long and comprehensive. Humanity owes its betterment and evolution to scientists and inventors who took it to new heights.
Unflinching zeal
Scientists did not hesitate to sacrifice their lives to serve science and technology. Madam Curie, who was awarded the Nobel prize, was exposed to severe radiation that caused the death of the great Polish scientist who invented Radium. With Pierre Curie, she discovered Polonium, an element used variously. Sir Ronald Ross traced the life cycle of the dreaded malaria parasite, which helped in combating the menace of the disease. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in medicine.
Use of Technology
(A) Constructive Use
The use of knowledge and technology is the crux of helping shape the course of action and better serve humanity. The Discovery of Otto Hahn paved the way for atomic energy’s peaceful and constructive use. Similarly, dynamite was not invented by Alfred Nobel with destruction in mind. Nobel got his discovery patented in 1867. He established the famous and prestigious premium prize we know as the Nobel Prize. A constructive use would, hence, be to use the scientific discovery for the welfare of humanity and betterment of the globe.
(B) Destructive Use
The incidents of the Second World War showed the ferocious face of those who derive pleasure in devastating wars and establish their hegemony. The devilish approach materialised when, in 1945, the USA dropped two atomic bombs, “Fat Man” and “Little Boy”, on two cities in Japan, causing widespread massive destruction and loss of valuable lives. It was a crime against humanity, not less than those committed in concentration camps where millions of innocent people were killed in gas chambers. Gravely flouting human values and dignity, the men in power misused technology for the destruction and suffering of millions of innocent children, women and the older people. This type of use is not a constructive use. How do you feel about it? What mores needs to be considered destructive use of scientific knowledge and technology?
(C) Peaceful Use of Atomic Power
Atomic technology can be better used for peaceful purposes in medicine, power plants, agriculture et cetera. Yet, it was chosen for widespread destruction in wars. The mind, thus, is to be blamed. It is the intention of the user which is at fault, not the technology. It has also to be borne in mind that only choosing a technology wisely would suffice for the purpose.
(1) Care and caution is necessary
Technology needs to be used carefully. It becomes more important when dealing with a dangerous one. The blast in the Chernobyl power plant in 1986 is an example that underlines the importance of careful use and meticulous implementation of technology. It is like taking advantage of snake venom in preparing an antidote for positioning due to snake bites. The experts carefully do milking of snakes.
(2) Using Atomic Power with constructive aims
We are now using atomic power in various ways from power generation to medicine and agriculture to defense. Atomic submarines are gaining prominence in defence and securing sea frontiers efficiently and cost-effectively.
Technological Advancement
(a) Advancement is swift
Technological advancement is swift and effective. Since Charles Babbage invented his first calculating machine to help his father in daily counting and calculating drills, computer technology has advanced much. It has taken a quantum leap. Likewise, the internet, which started as an internal system of interconnected communication, has become a powerful tool for connecting each other across the globe. It is an effective, smart and efficient means of information exchange.
(b) The world has shrunk
The time when the world and its Nations were difficult to connect is a thing of the past. The world has shrunk, and communication is swift and easy. Anyone in the USA can easily converse with family members, friends and relatives in Asian countries virtually face-to-face. It is the power of technology. Social media is yet another form of technology. People, nevertheless, often lament and curse it for its ostensible misuse and propaganda. They fail to recognise the power of technology. Social media and Mainstream Media can help considerably, and they are helping. It is on us to see how we are using the power. Constrictive use of power leads to wide-scale good to society, while indiscriminate and unmindful use leads to frustration and dejection. The choice is ours.
To Sum up
Technology should not be blamed, as has been said above. The end user should exercise prudence when using technology, which is an abstract concept. Like using a lethal instrument or weapon with caution and prudence, a sound and positive approach will give pleasure. A knife does not know who is using it. It does not know how it acts. The user determines its actions. Likewise, technology is neither good nor bad. It is the user who needs to use it carefully, keeping other aspects like security, safety, and available time.
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