Science and technology are integral parts of modern life. They enable us to lead a safer, healthier existence.
Though some may hold negative opinions about science and technology, the vast majority believe they are beneficial for society. Indeed, two thirds of Americans agree that scientific discoveries have had mostly beneficial effects on society.
Increased Factual Knowledge
Science is the systematic investigation of the structure and behavior of physical and natural systems through observation and experiment, while technology is the application of that knowledge for practical application.
Science and technology have historically evolved independently. Yet today, these fields are deeply intertwined in modern society, with each having a lasting effect on the other.
Galileo’s use of a telescope to challenge the longstanding belief that Earth revolved around the sun was an incredible technological breakthrough which led to groundbreaking theories about heliocentrism and other astronomical topics.
Science and technology share some core principles, such as a solid foundation in factual knowledge. This type of understanding encompasses discrete information with independent definitions and an appreciation of how facts fit together within an abstract conceptual framework for retrieval and application. Although it’s an essential part of students’ overall education, learning without such foundation can be challenging.
Improved Decision-Making
Science can be an integral component of decision-making, whether for personal preferences or public policy decisions. Unfortunately, scientists often struggle to communicate their expertise in an accessible form that decision makers can utilize.
Science can be brought into decision making through the use of decision analysis tools. These programs provide a logical connection between scientific knowledge and the information needs of decision makers.
Another way science can be utilized in decision making is by integrating subject matter expertise with quality data and contextual wisdom (art). This technique enhances decision-making by offering a more balanced approach when selecting among alternatives.
Furthermore, this method significantly boosts the probability that a decision will be successful. It is especially beneficial when weighing options with inherent bias or lack of objectivity.
Expanded Knowledge
Science and technology have revolutionized our understanding of the world by giving us new methods for studying it, leading to more discoveries. They also provide us with instruments and techniques for exploring weather systems, demographic patterns, gene structure, and other complex systems which would otherwise remain untouched.
Scientists and engineers have devised a number of tools to assist them in working with data, collecting samples, computing, transporting to research sites such as Antarctica, protecting from hazardous materials, and communicating among themselves. These technologies have enabled the advancement of scientific understanding as well as its systematic application in creating and applying technology.
As science and technology have advanced, so too has the need for scientists and engineers in industry and education. To meet this demand, new educational programs have been established to meet employers’ requirements.
Improved Quality of Life
Science and technology have made life much simpler, allowing people to work less, travel faster and communicate with others more quickly. Furthermore, scientific discoveries have contributed to improving healthcare by helping diagnose illnesses earlier.
Life expectancies have grown dramatically, yet this increase has also been associated with a decrease in physical activity and an increased risk of obesity – both factors which increase the likelihood of chronic illnesses and diseases.
Technology can certainly bring about many benefits, but some worry that it is making life too easy for individuals. In America, 4% of adults say science and technology are creating too many changes too quickly while 52% agree that most of its advantages have been positive.
Technology is an indispensable asset for healthcare professionals and researchers to collect patient data. The ultimate aim should be to enable us to deliver tailored care based on each individual’s health history and treatment history.
