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Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society Module No. 2

STUDY GUIDE FOR MODULE NO. 2

HISTORICAL ANTECEDENTS OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

MODULE OVERVIEW

This module will introduce you the major roles of science and technology in the everyday life in a
historical perspective. As you proceed with the learning activities, you should be able to discover how different
social, cultural, economic, and political conditions affected science and technology and how science and
technology affected society as a whole. This module will focus on three historical periods: Ancient, Middle,
and Modern Period.
We will not only be looking at the history of science and technology in a global context. We will also
discuss important Philippine inventions and innovations. This way we could appreciate the different
contributions to the science and technology field of our own countrymen.

MODULE LEARNING OBJECTIVES

At the end of this Module, you should be able to:

1. discuss the interactions between science, technology, and society throughout history;
2. discuss how scientific and technological developments affect society and the environment; and
3. explain how Philippine scientific and technological inventions shaped and were shaped by various
social context.

LEARNING ACTIVITY 1

Reflection

Before continuing on this Module, watch an 18- minute TEDxTalk by Hannu Rajaniemi entitled The Big
History of Modern Science using the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcWsjlGPPFQ. Afterward,
reflect on the following question: “Why is it important to study the history of Science and Technology?”

ANTECEDENT DEFINED

Though it is important to study scientific and technological innovations that had important societal
impacts, there would not be enough time to study them all. What we would focus on are the historical
antecedents, which, according to Quinto, et al (2019), are “factors that paved the way for the presence of
advanced and sophisticated scientific and ethnological innovations today.” The study of these historical
antecedents is important because they help us better understand how to develop new scientific and
technological innovations and help us make better decisions based from our experiences.
In our study of these historical antecedents, we will be dividing them into three distinct but interrelated
periods. This relationship of different historical antecedents of science and technology across time can be
seen in Figure 2.1.

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Figure 2.1: Historical antecedents of S&T across Time

DRIVING CONCERNS FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT

Transportation
One of the greatest needs that people need to address is how to move ourselves and our goods from
one place to another. With motivations such as traveling to new places, discovering new horizons, search for
basic human needs such as food and shelter, seeking security, and doing business such as trading, the need
for the advancements in transportation is of utmost importance, both in the past and present. Thankfully, we
have progressed from our reliance on human and animal muscle for transportation to such technological
advancements such as automobiles, rockets, and Global Positioning System.

Examples: wheel, wheeled chariot, sailboat, sailing ship, road, compass, steamboat, railroad, bicycle,
automobile, airplane, space launcher, jetliner, GPS

Communication
Aiming to create understanding, prevent conflicts, facilitate business transactions, provide
entertainment, expand our knowledge, and broaden our vision, science and technology has made great leaps
in the area of communication. Thankfully, the transmission of information from a sender to a receiver, much
like transportation, has also greatly advanced.

Examples: cuneiform, ink, papyrus, paper, hieroglyphics, newspaper, bound book or codex, numbers,
Greek and Latin alphabet, parchment and vellum, printing press, photography, telegraph, telephone,
phonograph, motion picture, radio, television, transistor, communications satellite, personal computer

Food production, agriculture and industry

Food is a basic need for the human race to survive, and innovations and inventions that advance its
production and processing is a great step towards the continued survival of human societies. Growing and
taking care of living thing, as well as processing these living things as products that could be stored for a long
time and be safe for human consumption, are important driving motivations for science and technological
advancement.

Examples: plowshare, silk, tea, bronze, iron, petroleum refinery, power loom, canning, refrigeration,
steel, aluminum, sheet and plate glass, rayon, Bakelite, combine harvester, industrial robots,
fullerenes

Military and Defense

Even the smallest living organism has its own way of protecting itself against anything that might harm it.
Naturally, humans also see the need for defending itself. As such, science and technology has made efforts
in improving military and defense efforts. Initially for the discovery of new places, establishment of alliances,
taking of needed resources, conflicts, security, and protection, science and technology have contributed the
deliberate and organized application of force, sometimes with bloody results.

Examples: spear, bow and arrow, gunpowder, rifled muzzle-loaders, submarine, machine gun, assault
rifle, tank, ballistic missile, nuclear weapons

Conservation of life, medicine, and health

By creating medicines to fight off or prevent illnesses, developing processes that prevent us from
acquiring diseases, discovering knowledge of the human body, and inventing new ways to maintain good
health, science and technology helped humans to extend human life. In contrast with previous motivations of
science and technology advancement, history tells us that medical and health-related breakthroughs are
usually lead by specific individuals, and not by groups of people.

Examples: smallpox vaccine, general anesthesia, pasteurization, X-ray imaging, insulin, antibiotics,
blood transfusion, polio vaccine, birth control pill, heart transplantation, genetic engineering, cloning

Engineering and architecture

Advances on engineering and architecture has not only filled the need of society, it also showed how
inventive and organized humans are. Through the creation and design of controlled environments for varying
purposes, science and technology helped in molding human identity, as shown in amazing engineering feats

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and architectural design.

Examples: city, ziggurat, irrigation, dike, Wonders of the World, aqueduct, arch, brick, dam, Roman
dome, plumbing, paved road, reinforced concrete, suspension bridge, dynamite, skyscraper, elevator,
heating, ventilation, and air conditioning

Power and energy

Without power and energy, all other human efforts in improving task efficiency will be in vain. It is a
fundamental driving force that advances in power harnessing and energy processing has also shaped other
areas discussed in this lesson. Science and technology have helped society to use its environment in
gathering energy and using it in a more purposeful and useful way.

Example: waterwheel, controlled fire, windmill, steam engine, electric battery, electric generator and
motor, incandescent lightbulb, steam turbine, gasoline engine, jet engine, nuclear reactor laser, wind
turbine, solar cell, fuel cell

Observation and measurement

It has been extremely difficult for humans to imagine magnitude, especially in terms of time and space.
However, this did not stop science and technology in trying to comprehend it. This led to different innovations
that tried to make sense of the observable universe – a driving force that led to clocks and calendars, as well
as microscopes and telescopes. Through science and technology, we have attempted to quantify and
understand something that we cannot move, manipulate, or change.

Examples: water clock or clepsydra, alarm clock, Gregorian calendar, clock, watch, telescope,
microscope, radar, atomic clock, calculator

Aesthetics
Humans also saw the need to make itself more visually appealing and presentable. This may be for
diverse reasons, may it be cultural, biological, psychological, or religious. Science and technology helped
humans in this endeavor and made sure that improving human aesthetics does not only serve the purpose
that it wants to achieve, but also made it safe and economical.

Examples: wig, cosmetics

ANCIENT PERIOD

In the ancient times, people were concerned with transportation and navigation, communication and
record keeping, mass production, power and energy, security and protection, as well as health, observation,
and measurement, aesthetics, engineering, and architecture. A primary challenge they faced was the
conservation of life. The early people might have been successful in harnessing the rich resources that the
world could provide but their survival posed a great problem. Different illnesses and diseases, both natural
and man-made, hampered the full potential of a human being. Given this predicament, science and
technology played a major role in the discovery of cures, if not the prevention of illness. Moreover, in order to
integrate their needs for better transportation, establishment of structures for protection from human attacks
and natural disasters, and construction of bigger and stronger infrastructure. Furthermore, the people were
not contented on beautifying their infrastructures and surrounding but more on being able to prolong life with
the mass production of food and advancement of medical technology, as well as raising the quality of life.

The rise of ancient civilizations such as Sumerians, Babylonians, Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and
Chinese paved the way for advances in science and technology. Their contributions not only allowed these
ancient civilizations to flourish, but also paved the way for the developments of many other science and
technology innovations.

Some of the important historical antecedents of much more modern science and technology innovations
which were discovered in the ancient times include the ancient wheel, paper, shadoof, Antikythera
mechanism, and aeolipile. However, it should be noted that many more scientific and technological
innovations were developed during ancient times.

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Sumerian Civilization

Sumeria is located on the southernmost tip of ancient Mesopotamia and is considered the oldest
civilization in the world. The ancient civilization of the Sumerians were the people of southern “Mesopotamia”
whose civilization flourished between c. 4100-1750 BCE.
The Sumerians lived in “Sumer” which was not a political entity but rather a region of city-states each
with its own king. Sumer was in the southern counterpart to the northern region of “Akkad” whose people gave
the Sumer the same meaning “Land of the civilized kings”. Which the Sumerians gave them a name too which
was “The land of the black-headed people” Their contributions include the following:

1. CUNEIFORM. The first writing system that utilizes word pictures and triangular symbols which are
carved on clay using wedge instruments and then left to dry. This allowed the Sumerians to keep
records of things with great historical value or their everyday life.

2. FIRST TRUE CITY. Uruk City is first true city on the world. The Sumerians were able to build the city
using only mud or clay from the river which they mixed with reeds, producing sun-baked bricks. They
used bricks to make houses that protected them from the harsh weather and to build a wall around
the city that prevented wild animals and neighboring raiders from entering.

3. THE GREAT ZIGGURAT OF UR. Also called the mountain of God, it served as the scared place of
their chief god where only their priest were allowed to enter.

4. IRRIGATION and DIKES. Sumerians created dikes and irrigation canals to bring water to farmlands
and at the same time control of flooding of the rivers. Through the dikes and canals, the Sumerians
were able to enjoy year-long farming and harvesting, which increased their food production.

5. SAILBOATS. These were used to carry large quantities of products and were able to cover large
distances.

6. WHEEL. The first wheels were not made for transportation but farm work and food processes.
Farmers were able to mill grains with less effort in less time.

7. PLOW. It is used to dig the ground where seeds would be planted. Farmers could cultivate larger
parcels of land faster, enabling them to mass produce food without taking so much effort and time

8. ROADS. It made the flow of traffic become faster and more organized. They made the roads with
the same technology they used in making the sun-baked bricks that they laid down on the ground

9. JEWELRY. They are ones who made their own jewelries using gold, silver and gems.

10. BRONZE TOOLS. Sumerians tools are made by bronze to make weapons much stronger.

Babylonian Civilization

The Babylonian civilization emerged near the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. Babylonia was a state in
ancient Mesopotamia. The city of Babylon, whose ruins are located in present-day Iraq, was founded more
than 4,000 years ago. Known for their engineering and architecture, one of their major contributions is the
Hanging Gardens of Babylon, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, made by King
Nebuchadnezzar II for Queen Amytis. Among their contributions include:

1. FIRST MAP. An ancient Babylonian cartographer created the world’s first map on a clay tablet in
2300 BC. The map covers a small region of Babylonia during the Akkadian Empire. The Babylonian
Map of the World is circular and depicts mountains, rivers, canals, and swamps. The seven small
circles on the map represent the seven Babylonian cities. It can now be found in the British Museum.

2. ASTROLOGY AND HOROSCOPY. In ancient Babylon, it was thought that the celestial bodies had
divine powers which directed people’s lives. Constellations were used to determine the weather,
climate, and the seasons, and to help people decide which crops should be sown when. Ancient
Babylonian astronomists closely studied the sun and the moon cycles in order to predict this. The
concept of the horoscope was introduced by the Babylonians as they believed in the divinity of the

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celestial bodies. They mapped the position of astronomical bodies so that they could foretell their
daily lives and those of their kings.

Egyptian Civilization

The Egyptian civilization is located in North Africa. It was the preeminent civilization in the
Mediterranean world. It occurred as a series of stable kingdoms, separated by periods of relative instability
known as Intermediate Period.
The ancient Egyptians excelled at the sciences and had knowledge in various fields, from astronomy
to medicine to mathematics. Many of their most famous inventions were based upon the scientific principles
they discovered. They had a variety of medicines and cures for both humans and animals, along with much
knowledge of anatomy. During the Stone Age, early doctors used very primitive forms of herbal medicine.
Math and numbers were used to record business transactions, and the ancient Egyptians even
developed a decimal system.
The ancient Egyptians are known for their massive constructions and outstanding architecture. The
ones that are remain marvels of architecture, such as the Great Pyramid of Giza, which is one of the Seven
Wonders of the World. The first truly triangular shaped pyramids are counted among the many ancient
Egyptian inventions, although it took them several tries in order to achieve an ideal model. The great
pyramids that the ancient Egyptians built required some knowledge of mathematics, especially of geometry.

Among their many contributions include the following:

1. PAPYRUS. Papyrus is the precursor of paper. It is made from the papyrus plant (Cyperus papyrus)
that grew abundantly along Nile River in Egypt. They were able to process the plants in order to
produce thin sheets on which one could write down things. They are thinner and lighter and less
breakable than clay tablets, allowing record - keeping and communications advantages such as
sending letters or correspondences anywhere in the world and easier safekeeping from raiders who
often destroyed records of the nations they invaded.

2. INK. By combining soot with different chemicals to produce inks of different colors, it was used to
record history, culture, and codified laws.

3. HIEROGLYPHICS. It is a system of writing using symbols (logographic system), believed by

Egyptians to be provided to them by gods.

4. CALENDAR. The ancient Egyptian calendar was originally invented based on the 12-month lunar
cycle. The Egyptians devised the solar calendar by recording the yearly reappearance of Sirius (the
Dog Star) in the eastern sky.

5. COSMETICS. These were used for both health and aesthetic reasons. Egyptians wore Kohl, eye
cosmetic created by mixing soot or malachite with mineral galena to cure diseases. Egyptians
believed that a person wearing make-up was protected from evil and that beauty was a sign of
holiness.

6. WIGS. They were worn for health and wellness rather than for aesthetic purposes. They were used
to protect the shaved heads of the wealthy Egyptians from the harmful rays from the sun.

7. SIMPLE MACHINES. The ramp and the lever were a couple of the most famous construction
inventions that the ancient Egyptians developed, and the principles that guide them are still widely
used in construction today.

8. CLOCK. Ancient Egyptians were also one of the first groups of people to divide days into equal parts
through the use of timekeeping devices. In order to tell the time, Egyptians invented two types of
clocks, obelisks and water clocks or clepsydra (utilizes gravity that affects the flow of water from one
vessel to the other. The amount of water remaining in the device determines how much time has
elapsed since it is full.)

9. SHADOOF. It is a hand-operated device used for lifting water for the purpose of irrigating land.

Greek Civilization

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Greece is an archipelago in the southern part of Europe. It is known as the birthplace of western
philosophy. The Greeks made major contributions in mathematics like ideas about basic geometry and the
concept of mathematical proof from ancient Greek mathematicians.
In science they made some of the first astronomical models trying to describe the planetary
movement- the earth axis, and the heliocentric system- a model that places the sun at the center of the solar
system.
In our modern society, geometry plays a vital role in the construction process itself. It helps us decide
what material and design to use. Also, geometry wore in mapping, and mapping is an essential element in the
profession such as surveying, navigation, and astronomy. Their heliocentric model helps us understand the
world outside our planet, furthermore their discoveries many scientists have discovered more than one galaxy.
Among their contributions are the following:

1. ALARM CLOCK. They made used of water or small stones or sand that dropped into drums which
sounded the alarm. Plato was believed to have utilized an alarm to signal the start of his lecture.

2. WATER MILL. It was commonly used in agricultural processes like milling of grains which was
necessary form of food processing. Because milling was made possible by the use of watermills, the
mass production of rice, cereals, flours became common. They were better than mills powered by
farm animals because they required less effort and time to operate since the farmer did not have time
to raise the animals.

3. ANTIKYTHERA MECHANISM. Retrieved from Antikythera, Greece, it is similar to mantel clock, with
a round face and rotating hands. The movement of knobs allowed it to display celestial time. It was
believed that it was used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses. It is believed to be the
antecedent of the modern clockwork.

4. AEOLIPILE. Also known as the Hero's engine, named after Hero of Alexandria who demonstrated it.
It is the precursor of the steam engine. It is steam-powered turbine which spun when the water
container it has is heated.

Roman Civilization

The Roman Empire was perceived to be the strongest political and social entity in the west and was
considered to be the cradle of politics and governance. It was large and other civilizations looked up to it as
their model in terms of legislation and codified laws. Among their contributions were the following:

1. NEWSPAPER. First called gazettes, they were made before the invention of paper. They were
engraved in metal or stone tablets and then publicly displayed.

2. BOUND BOOKS OR CODEX. According to sources, Julius Cesar started the tradition of stacking up
papyrus to form pages of a book. Later on, they were able to provide covers to protect the papyrus.
Earlier covers was made of wax but were later on replaced by animal skin, which made them stronger
and long-lasting.

3. ROMAN ARCHITECTURE. This was considered a continuation of Greek architecture. Probably the
biggest innovation that Roman architecture brought with it was the widespread use of concrete.
Roman architects realized that concrete was not only stronger than commonly-used marble, but it
could also be decorated easily and could have various shapes sculpted onto it, as opposed to having
to be carved out of it. They were able to implement major projects such as large churches (basilicas,
aqueducts, cathedrals, coliseums, amphitheaters etc.)

4. ROMAN NUMERALS. Romans devised their own number system specifically to address the need
for standard counting method.

5. SURGICAL TOOLS. Romans pioneered in precision instruments that gave birth to many modern-day
surgical tools. They were intrigued to know that such tools could also become helpful to soldiers who
have been injured in battles there and then. Hence, Roman armies had medics who were in use for
any complications in the battlefield. Their prowess in the medical field doesn’t just end there, as they

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had also devised procedures that can considerably reduce blood loss and even aesthetical
administrations.

6. WAR WEAPONS. They had weapons like the ballista (catapult) and the scorpion (long range
crossbow), which were brilliantly engineered to bring down the toughest of enemies. They re-
engineered the ballista and made a cost-effective version of it called the Onager. It was cheaper to
make but deadly as its predecessor.

Mayan Civilization

A Mesoamerican civilization, this civilization lasted for about 2 000 years. The Mayan civilization
included southeastern Mexico and northern Central America. This area included the entire Yucatán Peninsula
and all of the territory now incorporated into the modern countries of Guatemala and Belize, as well as the
western portions of Honduras and El Salvador. They were known for the following:

1. understanding of astronomy (predicting eclipses, using astronomy in agriculture, calendar systems)

2. engineering and architecture (building of cities, hydraulic systems, religious structures, such as
Chichen Itza in Mexico)
3. agriculture
4. arts (looms for weaving, paints made from mica, Mayan hieroglyphics)
5. mathematics (number system based on the number 20, and concept of zero and positional value)

Inca Civilization

A Mesoamerican civilization, it included modern-day Peru, followed by a large portion of western

South America. They were known for the following:

1. stone-paved roads
2. stone buildings strong against disasters
3. irrigation system
4. 12-month calendar for religious and agricultural purposes
5. first suspension bridge
6. quipu, system of knotted ropes to keep records
7. textiles

Aztec Civilization

A Mesoamerican civilization located in central Mexico, the Aztec civilization has the following
contributions:

1. mandatory education
2. chocolates (which was used as currency)
3. antispasmodic medication
4. chinampa, a form of agricultural farming in which the land was divided into rectangular areas and
surrounded by canals
5. calendar system
6. canoe

Chinese Civilization

Considered the oldest civilization in Asia, it was known as the Middle Kingdom and located on the far
east of Asia. Among its contributions are as follows:

1. PAPER AND PAPER MONEY. Paper was invented by the Chinese as well as many interesting uses
for paper like paper money and playing cards. The first paper was invented in the 2nd century BC and
the manufacture later perfected around 105 AD. Paper money was an offshoot of the invention of
block printing, this replaced the use of jewels and precious stones as currency.

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2. PRINTING. Wood block printing was invented in AD 868 and then moveable type around 200 years
later. This was actually hundreds of years before the invention of the printing press by Gutenberg in
Europe.

3. SILK. Naturally produced by silk worms, the Chinese were the ones who developed the technology
to harvest the silk and process it to produce paper and clothing. Silk was a soft and light material
much desired by the wealthy throughout the world. It became such a valuable export that the trade
route running from Europe to China became known as the Silk Road. The silk trade opened China to
the outside world making way for cultural, economic and scientific exchanges bridging the gap
between the western world and the middle kingdom.

4. WHEELBARROW. The wheelbarrow is taken for granted today, but in the time of the Han Dynasty,
the wheelbarrow was an amazing invention that changed the lives of many farmers. It looks simple;
one wheel and a piece of iron, but could save farmers more work. Han Dynasty farmers could now
push their heavy loads in the wheelbarrow instead of having to carry them on their backs, or in
buckets attached to a pole on their shoulders. The main purpose of this amazing yet simple invention
was to transport farmers' goods from one place to another easier. The harvest of crops potentially
could speed up because farmers' could carry more supplies faster and easier than they used to.

5. TEA PRODUCTION. Tea is a beverage produced by pouring hot or boiling water over crushed or
shredded dried tea leaves. It was believed that the first tea was drunk by a Chinese Emperor. Tea
production was developed when an unknown Chinese inventor created a machine that was ablw
shred tea leaves into strips.

6. COMPASS. The Chinese invented the magnetic compass to help determine the correct direction.
They used this in city planning at first, but it became very important to map makers and for the
navigation of ships.

7. GREAT WALL OF CHINA. The largest and most extensive infrastructure that the nation built, it was
constructed to keep out foreign invaders and control the borders of China. It was made with stone,
brick, wood, earth and other materials.

8. GUNPOWDER. Known as huoyao ("fire potion"), it was developed originally by Chinese alchemists
who aimed to achieve immortality. They mixed charcoal, sulfur and potassium nitrate but instead of
creating an elixir of life they accidentally invented a black powder that could actually generate large
amounts of heat and gas in an instant. Gun powder is widely used to propel bullets from guns and
cannons which cause countless deaths. Gun powder is also used in fireworks during important
celebrations in China.

9. OTHER TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATIONS. These include traditional medicine, iron plow,

wheelbarrow, propeller, bridges, seismological detector, dry dock facility, and advances in astronomy,
mathematics, logic, and philosophy.

Indian Civilization

The ancient Indian civilization were known for the following:

1. metallurgical works, especially iron

2. medicine (exemplified by Ayurveda, who developed a system of traditional medicine still practiced
today, and the text Susruta Samhita, which described medical procedures)
3. astronomy (theories on the configuration of the universe, spherical Earth, 360-day year with 12
months, and the text SIddhanta Shiromani, which contained astronomical topics)
4. mathematics (development of the Mohenjodaro ruler, and mathematicians such as Aryabhata, (who
introduced trigonometric functions, tables, and techniques, and algebra algorithms), Brahmagupta
(who explained the use of zero and a system of numbers), and Madhava (considered the founder of
mathematical analysis))

Middle East Civilizations

Middle Eastern countries are predominantly occupied by Muslims. In contrast with the Greeks, they

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focused on science experiments rather than though experiments. Among their contributions are:

1. beginnings of the scientific method

2. concept of algorithm and algebra (from Muhammad ibn Musa al-Khwarizmi)
3. refinement of the numeral system of Indians and introduction of decimal point notation
4. founding of chemistry (where some consider Jabir ibn Hayyan to be the Father of Chemistry)
5. experimental medicine and clinical trials, contagious ature of infectious disease, and clinical
pharmacology (from Ibn Sina)

African Civilizations

Some contributions of African civilizations include the following:

1. calendars (solar, lunar, stellar, and combinations of these)
2. metallurgy
3. mathematics (proof of which is the Lebombo Bone which may be a mathematical tool)

MEDIEVAL / MIDDLE AGES

The Middle Ages, which occurred between the collapse of the Roman Empire in 5th century AD and the
colonial expansion of Western Europe in late 15th century AD, was an age of which started with wars,
migrations, and population rise and fall. These events led to new technologies needed in the fields of
weaponry, transportation and navigation, mass food and farm production, and health. This is also the period
of the emergence of scientific thinking and scientific method. Because of this, many of our technologies can
actually be traced back in this time period.

According to Quinto (2019), the heavy plough, gunpowder, paper money, mechanical clock and
spinning wheel were the important technologies which emerged in this time period. Just like in the ancient
period, be mindful of their impacts to society and that they are not the only technologies that are developed
during this time.

1. HEAVY PLOW. This allowed tilling of clay soil, which was more fertile but very heavy.

2. MECHANICAL CLOCK. The development of mechanical clock is the antecedent of modern

clockwork, and changed the way on work patterns.

3. SPINNING WHEEL. This machine was used for transforming fiber into yarn or thread and eventually
woven into a cloth on a loom. This ushered the breakthrough in linen technology.

4. PRINTING PRESS. Invented by Johann Gutenberg, it was a more reliable way of printing using a
cast type. It utilized a wooden machine that extracted from juices. Attached to them a metal
impression of the letters and pressed firmly the cast metal into a piece of paper which then made an
exact impression on paper. It was the precursor of the mechanical printing press which was
eventually used all over the world. It was used to address the need for publishing books that would
spread information to many people at faster rate. It also made works accessible to individuals who
could not even write

5. WAR WEAPONS. For open area battles, people developed cross bows and long bows so that they
could attack the enemies at long ranges, keeping themselves safe with the protection of walls and
fortresses. In close-range hand-to-hand combat, soldiers should wear something to protect
themselves, a need addressed by the creation of iron body armors.

MODERN AGES

According to Quinto, et al (2019), the Modern Ages was marked with a steady increase in population
that emphasizes the “importance of increasing the efficiency of transportation, communication, and
production”. During the Modern ages, more complicated problems were created that needed more solutions
and greater risks for many aspects of human life were needed to be addressed.

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Quinto (2019) gave a brief background on important historical antecedents of science and technology
that started in the Modern Ages. These include, but are not limited to, compound microscope, telescope,
Jacquard loom, engine-powered airplane, and television.

1. TELESCOPE. Invented by Galileo Galilei, it is an optical instrument that helps in the observation of
remote objects.

2. MICROSCOPE. Invented by Zacharias Janssen, it is the key in discovering new means in preventing
and curing various illness

3. PASTEURIZATION. Invented by Louis Pasteur, it is the process of heating dairy products to kill
harmful bacteria that fast spoilage. It is a better means of production to meet the needs for
population, food preservation and food safety. Because of this, milk could be stored and consumed
for a longer period and it prevents illnesses caused by harmful bacteria.

4. PETROLEUM REFINERY. Modern times demanded better means of powering homes and
transportation. Samuel M. Kier, by refining petroleum, invented kerosene, which was used at first to
provide lightning at homes (which led to it being named illuminating oil) and then was used for heating
purposes.

5. TELEPHONE. Invented by Alexander Graham Bell, it allowed a way to easily maintain connections
and communicate with each other in real time/.

6. CALCULATOR. It was invented to make easier way for arithmetic calculations. It resulted in the
development of more complex processing machine like computer.

7. JACQUARD LOOM. Invented by Joseph Marie Jacquard, it was used to simplify textile
manufacturing (which, prior to this invention, required the use of a drawloom which needed two
people, a weaver and a drawboy). It used punch cards, which is an antecedent to modern computer
technology.

8. ENGINE-POWERED AIRPLANE. Invented by Orville and Wilbur Wright, they demonstrated an

aircraft can be used to fly without airfoil-shaped wings. This paved the way to modern aircraft
technology.

9. TELEVISION. Mostly associated with John Logie Baird, the television televised outlines of objects
(1924), recognizable human faces (1925), moving objects (1926), and colored images (1928).

INVENTIONS BY FILIPINO SCIENTISTS

The Philippines, despite being considered a developing country, have their own contributions to science
and technology and have a culture of developing scientific and technological innovations. Known for original,
clever, and inventive ideas, Filipino scientists and inventors have used the needs and necessities of our
nation in their innovations using resources that are indigenous to the country. Areas where Filipinos focus
include adaptation to natural disasters, navigation, textiles, food, and culture.

Quinto (2019), lists some of our many Filipino scientists, inventors, and innovators, along with their
contributions to society. These include:

1.Manuel Guerrero. Studied beriberi in infants in the Philippines during Spanish era.

2.Leon Ma Guerrero. First licensed pharmacist in the Philippines, and one of the most eminent
botanists in the country in his time.

3.Anaclento del Rosario. Leading chemist in the Philippines during the Spanish era, regarded as the
"Father of Philippine Science and Laboratory", and invented the formula for producing a pure kind of alcohol
from tuba in a nipa palm.

4.Abelardo Aguilar. Invented Erythromycin, an antibiotic from Streptomyces erythreus.

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5.Aisa Mijeno. Invention of Sustainable Alternative Lighting Lamp (SALt lamp), an environment friendly
light source that runs on saltwater. It is safer as it poses no risk of fire and emit no toxic gases and it benefits
those from far-flung barrios.

6.Rolando dela Cruz. Invented a local mole remover from extracts of cashew nuts.

7.Maria Orosa. Invented the banana ketchup.

8.Fe del Mundo. Invention of medical incubator from indigenous and cheap materials which did not run
on electricity by placing a native laundry basket inside a bigger one abd inserting hot water bottles between
the baskets to provide warmth and makeshift hood to allow oxygen circulation. She was the first Asian
woman who admitted into Harvard Medical School. Other breakthroughs in Philippine medicine attributed to
Del Mundo include her works on the immunization and treatment of jaundice and the BRAT diet (includes
banana and rice) for curing diarrhea.

9.Dominic Chung, Lamberto Andrada, and Antonio Llave. Invention of the Salamander, an amphibious
tricycle that can cross not only flooded streets but also rivers and lakes.

10. Enrique Ostrea, Jr. Invention of the meconium drug testing

11. Angel Alcala. Outstanding contributions to marine science

12. Caesar Saloma. Outstanding contributions to physics

13. Edgardo Gomez. Outstanding contributions to marine science

14. Fabian Dayrit. Outstanding contributions to herbal medicine

15. Gregory Tangonan. Outstanding contributions to communications technology

16. Jose Cruz, Jr. Outstanding contributions to electrical engineering

17. Josefino Comiso. Outstanding contributions to Antarctica satellite imaging

18. Lilian Patena. Outstanding contributions to plant biotechnology

19. Lourdes Cruz. Outstanding contributions to sea snail venom

20. Mari-Jo Ruiz. Outstanding contributions to education and graph theory in mathematics

21. Rafael Guerrero III. Outstanding contributions to tilapia culture

22. Ramon Barba. Outstanding contributions to tissue culture in Philippine mangoes

23. William Padolina. Outstanding contributions to chemistry

Their impacts will be discussed in much greater detail in Module 4.

LEARNING ACTIVITY 2

Drawing / Model-making Activity

Draw or create of a model of an invention or innovation that could be beneficial to our society on the
present day. Describe what your invention is, why you decided to invent it, what influences did you draw from
this invention, and how it will benefit society as a whole. Your work will be graded according to the following
criteria:
4 3 2 1
Creativity and Work is inventive Work shows a high Work shows some Work is not
originality and shows a high degree of degree of original.
degree of imagination and inventiveness and

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Study Guide in GE 6: Science, Technology, and Society Module No. 2

imagination and resourcefulness. resourcefulness.

resourcefulness.
Visual appeal The poster is The poster is The poster is The poster is
exceptionally attractive in terms tolerably attractive messy and poorly
attractive in terms of layout, design, in terms of layout, designed and
of layout, design, and neatness. design, and layed out
and neatness. neatness.
Clarity of The message of The message of The message of The message of
message the poster is the poster is clear the poster is the poster is
exceptionally clear and impactful. comprehensible incomprehensible.
and impactful. but may lack
impact.
Explanation The explanation The explanation The explanation The explanation
was complete, was complete and was complete, but was incomplete,
concise, and clear. clear. may be long- long-winded, and
winded or unclear. unclear.
Timeliness Completed work Completed work Completed work Completed work
was passed earlier was passed on the was passed the was passed more
than the deadline deadline given. day after the than a day after the
given. deadline given. deadline given.

After finishing this Module, you will have a quiz, which covers both Modules 1 and 2.

SUMMARY

The following learning points summarize what you have learned in this section:

 The development of science and technology is affected by social contexts and social contexts affect
the developments in science and technology. By looking at the conditions present in a certain
historical period, we can discern the needs of humankind and these needs drive the development of
science and technology.
 Certain scientific and technological innovations are considered as historical antecedents; that is, they
are precursors of other scientific innovations. They provide solutions to existing problems and are
important foundations for the development of future products and processes.
 The Ancient Period, Middle Ages, and Modern Ages are three historical periods marked with differing
contexts and thus developed different types of technologies.
 Filipino scientists and inventors contributed to the development of science and technology. They
focused on the needs of the nation as the main motivators of their inventions.

REFERENCES

 Anderson, P.((2001). More is Different-One More Time. In Ong and Bhatt, R.N.Eds.More is
Different: Fifty Years of Condensed Matter Physics. (pp.1-8). USA: Princeton University Press.
Retrieved from: https://www.tkm.kit.edu/downloads/TKM1 2011 more is different PWA.pdf
 Quinto, Edward Jay M. and Nieva, Aileen D. (2019). Science, Technology, and Society. pp 15-34.
Quezon City: C&E Publishing.
 TheScienceFoundation.(2011,November 28).Stephen Colbert Interviews Neil deGrasse Tyson at
Montclair Kimberley Academy-January 29th 2010. Video file. Retrieved from
https://www.youtube.co/watch?v=ers2SPaTFTg
 TEDxTalks(2015, June 13). The Big History of Modern Science I Hannu Rajaniemi ITEDxDanubia.[.
Video file]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.co/watch?v=ZcWsjlGPPFQ

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