STS 10 Ch.1 Lesson 1- Historical Antecedents of Science and Technology (Part 1)

Summary

This lesson explores the historical development of science and technology, focusing on their origins in ancient civilizations. It covers the scientific and technological advancements of prehistoric humans, the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Egyptians, and traces how these innovations shaped society. The lesson also discusses the concept of science as a systematic pursuit of knowledge and the evolution of technology from simple tools to complex systems like writing, astronomy, and agriculture. It highlights how these early advancements laid the foundation for modern scientific and technological practices.

Takeaways

• 😀 Science is the systematic attempt to discover facts through observation, reasoning, and experimentation.
• 😀 The term 'science' comes from the Latin word 'scientia', meaning knowledge, and has existed since the dawn of human existence.
• 😀 Technology is closely linked with science, emerging from the Greek terms 'technique' (art or craft) and 'logos' (word or speech).
• 😀 Prehistoric humans had elementary scientific knowledge, including observations of the natural world, seasons, and toxicology.
• 😀 The Neolithic Revolution marked the transition from nomadic life to agricultural settlements, sparking early civilizations.
• 😀 Ancient Mesopotamians, including the Sumerians, pioneered scientific practices like hypotheses, writing, mathematics, and astronomy.
• 😀 The Sumerians invented important technologies like the wheel, sail, and writing system (cuneiform), which were essential for agriculture and trade.
• 😀 Babylonian science, while rooted in practical applications, made significant contributions to astronomy, astrology, mathematics, and calendar systems.
• 😀 The ancient Egyptians made advancements in multiple fields, including agriculture, medicine, astronomy, architecture, and the invention of papyrus.
• 😀 Egyptian innovations also included the creation of everyday items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, mirrors, and mummification techniques for preserving the dead.

Q & A

What is the origin of the term 'science'?

The term 'science' comes from the Latin word 'scientia', which means knowledge. It refers to a systematic attempt to discover facts through observation and reasoning.

How is science defined in the transcript?

Science is defined as a systematic attempt to discover facts about the physical world and its phenomena through unbiased observation, reasoning, and experimentation.

When did science begin to develop as a formal field of study?

Science as a formal field of study began to develop in the 6th century BCE with the pre-Socratic philosophers in ancient Greece and Turkey, who sought to understand nature as an end in itself.

What is the origin of the term 'technology'?

The term 'technology' is a combination of the Greek words 'techne' meaning art or craft, and 'logos' meaning word or speech. In the 17th century, it referred to a discourse on the arts.

How did technology evolve over time according to the script?

Technology evolved from being a discourse on arts to being defined as the means or activity by which humans change or manipulate their environment. It evolved alongside scientific discoveries.

What were the scientific observations made by prehistoric humans?

Prehistoric humans observed natural phenomena such as the changing seasons, the movement of celestial bodies, and the distinction between living and non-living things. They also practiced basic medical knowledge to avoid harmful substances.

What marked the Neolithic Revolution and its impact on technology?

The Neolithic Revolution marked the transition from nomadic hunter-gatherer societies to settled agricultural ones. It led to the development of tools, farming techniques, and the growth of early civilizations.

What were some of the key technological innovations in ancient Mesopotamia?

Key technological innovations in ancient Mesopotamia included the wheel, the sail, writing (cuneiform), the plow, and advancements in irrigation systems.

How did Babylonian astronomy differ from modern astronomy?

Babylonian astronomy was closely tied to astrology and was primarily used for practical purposes, such as determining when to plant crops, engage in diplomacy, or go to war. It was not separate from astrology as in modern times.

What was the role of astronomy in ancient Egypt?

In ancient Egypt, astronomy had both spiritual and practical applications. It helped them understand the movements of stars, aided in agricultural planning, and was used in the construction of temples and pyramids, reflecting alignment with celestial bodies.

What were some of the key inventions in ancient Egypt?

Ancient Egypt is credited with numerous inventions, including paper and ink, cosmetics, the toothbrush, toothpaste, and methods of embalming. They also made significant advancements in medicine, agriculture, and construction.