Science and Society

Paper Summary:

This paper takes a look at the obligation science and scientists alike have for the society. Concurring that science has played and is still a big part in the progress of modern society, the author discusses the influence that the social and political climate of a country can have on science. Expanding on this train of thought, an example is given - the research of the Kaiser Wilhelm Society in Germany revealed that where there was a profit or gain to the scientist, the ethics and professional codes of conduct failed, and the individuals collaborated with the system to create or conduct experiments that took on criminal dimensions. The author stresses that the role of science and scientists, the thinkers of today is to figure out how they can stream line their progress so as to benefit the needy or see that there is no major upset in the social equilibrium and this can only be achieved when the scientists are sensitive to the needs of the underprivileged in the society.

Outline:
The Role of Science in Society Today
Benefits of Science and the Obligation to Society
Looking at the Relationship
Conclusion
References

From the Paper:

"All human knowledge in the past and present were painstakingly acquired for the benefit of mankind. Though the ancient philosophers sought knowledge for their own sake, they also took care to see that what they gained was disseminated among the masses. Ancient inventions and discoveries, from fire, wheel and those simple things we take for granted have been given to this world by enquiring minds in the past, and these advancements have benefited society. Modern science has undergone a change in the definition and in the method it seeks to gain knowledge. The basic quality of science is that it is based on empiricism. To elaborate, science arrives at the truth of a matter considered by observation, which then is used to create a hypothesis, and the hypothesis is then rigorously tested and verified to come to a conclusion or an irrefutable theory."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Crow, Michael M. 2001. Harnessing Science to Benefit Society. The Chronicle Review p. B20.
• Ross, Andrew. 1996. Science Wars. Duke University Press. Durham, NC.
• Gruss, Peter. 2005. History of Science Particular Ethical and Moral Obligation. [Online] Available at: http://www.mpg.de/english/illustrationsDocumentation/multimedia/mpResearch/2005/heft03/3_05MPR_66_67_pdf.pdf
• N. A. 2002. Safeguarding Scientific Culture: A Contribution from EIROforum. [Online] Contribution to the European Convent Forum. Available at: http://www.eiroforum.org/aboutus/pdf/safeguarding.pdf
• N. A. 1998. The Role of Science and Technology in Society and Governance. World Conference on Science: Toward a New Contract between Science and Society. [Online] Kananaskis Village, Alberta (Canada). Available at: http://www.unesco.org/science/wcs/meetings/eur_alberta_98_e.htm#integrating_issues

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