conclusion on technology essay

Essay on Technology in English (150, 200, 250, 500 Words)

Here, we’ve presented essays on “Technology” in 150, 200, 250 & 500 word samples. All the essays will be helpful for students of all classes i.e. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 & class 12.

Table of Contents

Essay on Technology in 150 Words

Introduction.

Technology plays a pivotal role in modern society, shaping the way we live, work, and interact with one another. From the invention of the wheel to the internet age, advancements in technology have revolutionized every aspect of human existence. In today’s fast-paced world, the pace of technological innovation continues to accelerate, bringing both opportunities and challenges.

The Impact of Technology

Technology has transformed communication, making it easier and faster to connect with people around the globe. Social media platforms allow individuals to share ideas, news, and experiences instantly, breaking down barriers and fostering collaboration. However, this constant connectivity also raises concerns about privacy and the blurring of boundaries between the digital and physical worlds.

Advancements in Healthcare

In the field of healthcare, technology has led to remarkable breakthroughs in diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. Medical imaging technologies such as MRI and CT scans enable doctors to detect diseases early and provide more accurate diagnoses. Moreover, telemedicine has expanded access to healthcare services, particularly in remote areas where medical resources are limited.

In conclusion, technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, driving progress and innovation across all sectors. While it offers countless benefits, it is essential to consider its impact on society and address the challenges it presents. By embracing technology responsibly and ethically, we can harness its full potential to create a brighter future for all.

Technology Essay in 200 Words

In the modern era, technology serves as the cornerstone of human civilization, profoundly influencing every aspect of our existence. From the invention of the wheel to the digital age, technological advancements have reshaped society, fueling progress and innovation.

The Role of Technology in Education

Technology has revolutionized the field of education, transforming traditional learning methods and opening up new avenues for knowledge acquisition. Interactive learning platforms, online courses, and educational apps provide students with access to a wealth of information anytime, anywhere. However, the digital divide remains a significant challenge, as not everyone has equal access to these resources.

Impact on Employment

The integration of automation and artificial intelligence into various industries has led to significant changes in the labor market. While technology has created new job opportunities, it has also displaced many workers, raising concerns about unemployment and income inequality. Additionally, the gig economy and remote work trends have redefined the traditional notions of employment and workplace dynamics.

Environmental Sustainability

Technology has the potential to address pressing environmental challenges by promoting sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions. Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, coupled with advancements in energy efficiency, offer viable solutions to combat climate change. However, the environmental impact of technological manufacturing processes and electronic waste management remains a critical issue.

In conclusion, technology is a double-edged sword that presents both opportunities and challenges for humanity. As we navigate the complexities of the digital age, it is essential to harness the power of technology responsibly and ethically to ensure a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.

Essay Writing on Technology in 250 Words

The rapid advancement of technology has fundamentally transformed the way we live, work, and interact with the world around us. From the invention of the printing press to the emergence of artificial intelligence, each technological milestone has heralded a new era of innovation and progress.

Communication Revolution

In the realm of communication, technology has revolutionized how we connect and communicate with one another. The proliferation of smartphones and social media platforms has made it easier than ever to stay connected, with over 4.66 billion people worldwide using the internet as of October 2021, according to data from Statista. Instant messaging apps and video conferencing tools have facilitated global collaboration and fostered a sense of interconnectedness like never before.

Economic Impact

The impact of technology on the global economy cannot be overstated. According to a report by the World Economic Forum, the digital economy is projected to reach $23 trillion by 2025, representing over 25% of global GDP. Technological innovation has spurred entrepreneurship and job creation, with the rise of startups and digital platforms reshaping industries across the board. However, concerns persist about the unequal distribution of wealth and the widening gap between tech-savvy regions and those left behind.

Healthcare Transformation

Advancements in technology have revolutionized healthcare delivery, improving patient outcomes and enhancing the quality of care. The adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) has streamlined administrative processes, reducing medical errors and improving care coordination. Moreover, telemedicine has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional in-person consultations, especially in rural and underserved communities.

Technology has the potential to address pressing environmental challenges, from climate change to resource depletion. Sustainable technologies such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, and green infrastructure offer promising solutions to mitigate carbon emissions and promote ecological balance. However, the transition to a sustainable future requires collective action and investment in innovative technologies.

In conclusion, technology continues to shape the trajectory of human progress, offering unprecedented opportunities for innovation and growth. However, as we harness the power of technology to address global challenges, it is imperative to prioritize ethical considerations and ensure equitable access to its benefits. Only by leveraging technology responsibly can we build a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.

Writing an Essay on Technology in 500 Words

Technology stands as the cornerstone of the modern world, permeating every facet of human existence. From the Industrial Revolution to the Information Age, the evolution of technology has been synonymous with progress and innovation. As of 2022, there were approximately 4.66 billion internet users globally, representing over half of the world’s population, according to data from Statista. This widespread connectivity has ushered in an era of unprecedented interconnectedness and transformed the way we live, work, and communicate.

One of the most significant impacts of technology has been its transformation of communication. The advent of the internet and social media platforms has democratized information dissemination, allowing individuals to share ideas and connect with others across geographical boundaries. In 2020 alone, there were an estimated 3.6 billion social media users worldwide, a number projected to increase to almost 4.41 billion by 2025, according to Statista. Instant messaging apps and video conferencing tools have further facilitated real-time communication, revolutionizing how businesses operate and people interact.

Economic Implications

The integration of technology into the global economy has reshaped traditional industries and catalyzed the rise of new ones. The digital economy has become a driving force of economic growth, with a projected value of $23 trillion by 2025, accounting for over 25% of global GDP, according to the World Economic Forum. This rapid expansion has created unprecedented opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation, propelling the growth of startups and digital enterprises. However, the benefits of this digital revolution have not been evenly distributed, with concerns mounting over the digital divide and economic inequality.

In the realm of healthcare, technology has revolutionized diagnosis, treatment, and patient care. Electronic health records (EHRs) have streamlined administrative processes and improved care coordination, leading to better patient outcomes. Telemedicine has emerged as a game-changer, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling remote consultations and expanding access to healthcare services. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, telehealth utilization surged by 38 times in the United States during the pandemic, highlighting its potential to transform the delivery of healthcare.

Education Evolution

Technology has also revolutionized the field of education, breaking down barriers to learning and expanding access to educational resources. Online learning platforms and digital classrooms have provided students with flexible learning opportunities, allowing them to pursue education at their own pace and convenience. As of 2021, the global e-learning market was valued at $250 billion and is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2027, according to Global Market Insights. However, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to technology and addressing the digital divide in education.

In the face of escalating environmental challenges, technology offers promising solutions to mitigate climate change and promote sustainability. Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power have gained traction, accounting for an increasing share of global energy consumption. Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a sustainable alternative to traditional combustion engine vehicles, with sales expected to reach 31.1 million units by 2030, according to BloombergNEF. However, the transition to a sustainable future requires concerted efforts and investments in green technologies and infrastructure.

In conclusion, technology continues to redefine the contours of human civilization, shaping our societies, economies, and environments in profound ways. While the benefits of technological innovation are undeniable, it is crucial to address the challenges and inequalities it brings forth. By leveraging technology responsibly and ethically, we can harness its full potential to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future for generations to come.

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Sample Essays on Technology (300, 500, and 1000 Words)

July 10, 2024

Dr. Marvin L. Smith

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the ability to articulate thoughts on technology’s impact on our world is becoming increasingly important. Whether you’re a student working on a class assignment, a researcher preparing a paper, or a professional crafting a report, understanding how to write effectively about technology at various lengths is a valuable skill.

This article presents three sample essays on the topic of technology, each tailored to a specific word count: 300, 500, and 1000 words. These essays serve as models to demonstrate how the same subject can be approached with different levels of depth and detail, depending on the required length.

The 300-word essay offers a concise overview, touching on key points about technology’s influence on our lives. The 500-word version allows for a more detailed exploration of these themes, while the 1000-word essay provides a comprehensive analysis, delving into nuanced aspects of technology’s impact across various sectors.

By examining these samples, readers can gain insights into effective essay structure, the art of scaling content to meet word count requirements, and techniques for maintaining coherence and depth at different lengths. Whether you’re looking to craft a brief summary or an in-depth analysis, these examples will guide you in articulating your thoughts on technology’s role in shaping our present and future.

As you read through these sample essays, pay attention to how ideas are introduced, developed, and concluded at each length. Notice how additional details, examples, and perspectives are incorporated as the word count increases, providing a roadmap for your own writing endeavors on this ever-relevant topic.

Sample Essay on Technology (300, 500, and 1000 Words)

The following are three sample essays on technology, each crafted to demonstrate effective writing at different lengths

Technology: Shaping Our Present and Future (300 words)

Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, revolutionizing the way we work, communicate, and interact with the world around us. From smartphones to artificial intelligence, technological advancements have transformed nearly every aspect of society, bringing both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges.

One of the most significant impacts of technology is in the realm of communication. The internet and mobile devices have made it possible to connect with people across the globe instantly, breaking down geographical barriers and fostering global collaboration. Social media platforms have changed how we share information and maintain relationships, though they also raise concerns about privacy and the spread of misinformation.

In the workplace, technology has dramatically increased productivity and efficiency. Automation and artificial intelligence are streamlining processes and enabling businesses to operate on a global scale. However, these advancements also raise questions about job displacement and the need for workers to continuously adapt their skills to remain relevant in an evolving job market.

Education has been transformed by technology, with online learning platforms and digital resources making knowledge more accessible than ever before. Students can now access a wealth of information at their fingertips, collaborate on projects remotely, and engage with interactive learning tools that cater to diverse learning styles.

While the benefits of technology are numerous, it also presents challenges. Issues such as cybersecurity threats, digital addiction, and the environmental impact of electronic waste require careful consideration and proactive solutions.

As we look to the future, emerging technologies like quantum computing, biotechnology, and space exploration promise to push the boundaries of human achievement even further. It is crucial that we approach these advancements with a balance of enthusiasm and ethical consideration, ensuring that technology continues to serve humanity’s best interests while mitigating potential risks.

Technology: Transforming Our World (500 words)

In the 21st century, technology has become the driving force behind unprecedented changes in human society. From the way we communicate and work to how we learn and entertain ourselves, technological advancements have reshaped nearly every facet of our lives. This digital revolution brings with it a myriad of opportunities and challenges that are continually evolving as innovation pushes forward at an ever-increasing pace.

One of the most profound impacts of technology is in the realm of communication. The internet, coupled with mobile devices, has created a globally connected world where information flows freely across borders. Social media platforms have revolutionized how we share experiences, express opinions, and maintain relationships. While this interconnectedness has fostered global collaboration and cultural exchange, it also raises concerns about privacy, the spread of misinformation, and the potential for technology to exacerbate social divisions.

In the workplace, technology has dramatically increased productivity and efficiency. Automation and artificial intelligence are streamlining processes, enabling businesses to operate on a global scale with unprecedented speed and accuracy. Cloud computing has made it possible for teams to collaborate seamlessly across vast distances, while data analytics provides insights that drive informed decision-making. However, these advancements also raise questions about job displacement and the need for workers to continuously adapt their skills to remain relevant in an evolving job market.

The field of education has been transformed by technology, with online learning platforms and digital resources making knowledge more accessible than ever before. Students can now access a wealth of information at their fingertips, engage with interactive learning tools, and participate in virtual classrooms that transcend geographical boundaries. This democratization of education has the potential to reduce inequalities and provide opportunities for lifelong learning.

Healthcare is another sector experiencing a technological revolution. Telemedicine, wearable devices, and AI-assisted diagnostics are improving patient care and making healthcare more accessible. Genetic engineering and personalized medicine promise to revolutionize treatment approaches, while 3D printing technology is opening new possibilities in prosthetics and organ transplantation.

The entertainment industry has been radically altered by technology, with streaming services, virtual reality, and augmented reality offering immersive experiences that blur the lines between the digital and physical worlds. Gaming has evolved into a multi-billion dollar industry, with esports competitions drawing millions of viewers worldwide.

While the benefits of technology are numerous, it also presents significant challenges. Cybersecurity threats have become increasingly sophisticated, posing risks to individuals, businesses, and national security. The issue of digital addiction, particularly among younger generations, raises concerns about mental health and social development. Additionally, the rapid pace of technological change often outpaces regulatory frameworks, creating ethical dilemmas in areas such as data privacy, AI development, and biotechnology.

The environmental impact of technology is another critical consideration. While innovations in renewable energy and smart city design offer hope for a more sustainable future, the production and disposal of electronic devices contribute significantly to pollution and resource depletion.

As we look to the future, emerging technologies like quantum computing, nanotechnology, and space exploration promise to push the boundaries of human achievement even further. It is crucial that we approach these advancements with a balance of enthusiasm and ethical consideration, ensuring that technology continues to serve humanity’s best interests while mitigating potential risks.

In conclusion, technology’s role in shaping our world is undeniable and irreversible. As we navigate this digital age, it is essential to harness the power of innovation responsibly, addressing challenges proactively and working towards a future where technology enhances human potential and contributes to the greater good of society.

Technology: Revolutionizing Our World and Shaping Our Future (1000 words)

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century, technology stands as the cornerstone of unprecedented change, reshaping the very fabric of human society. From the smartphones in our pockets to the artificial intelligence powering industries, technological advancements have permeated every aspect of our lives, transforming how we communicate, work, learn, and interact with the world around us. This digital revolution brings with it a complex tapestry of opportunities and challenges, continually evolving as innovation pushes forward at an ever-accelerating pace.

Perhaps the most visible impact of technology is in the realm of communication. The internet, coupled with mobile devices, has created a globally connected world where information flows freely across borders at the speed of light. Social media platforms have revolutionized how we share experiences, express opinions, and maintain relationships, effectively shrinking the world into a global village. This interconnectedness has fostered unprecedented levels of global collaboration, cultural exchange, and the rapid dissemination of ideas.

However, this communication revolution is not without its drawbacks. The ease of sharing information has also facilitated the spread of misinformation and “fake news,” challenging our ability to discern truth from fiction. Privacy concerns have come to the forefront as personal data becomes a valuable commodity, often harvested and exploited by corporations and malicious actors alike. The addictive nature of social media platforms raises questions about their impact on mental health, particularly among younger generations.

In the professional sphere, technology has dramatically increased productivity and efficiency, reshaping the very nature of work. Automation and artificial intelligence are streamlining processes, enabling businesses to operate on a global scale with unprecedented speed and accuracy. Cloud computing has made it possible for teams to collaborate seamlessly across vast distances, while data analytics provides insights that drive informed decision-making.

The rise of remote work, accelerated by recent global events, has demonstrated the potential for technology to redefine traditional work structures. Virtual meetings, collaborative software, and secure networks have made it possible for many to work from anywhere, potentially reshaping urban landscapes and commuting patterns.

However, these advancements also raise critical questions about the future of employment. As automation and AI continue to evolve, concerns about job displacement loom large. The need for workers to continuously adapt their skills to remain relevant in an evolving job market has never been more pressing, highlighting the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability in the modern workforce.

The field of education has been profoundly transformed by technology, with online learning platforms and digital resources making knowledge more accessible than ever before. Students can now access a wealth of information at their fingertips, engage with interactive learning tools, and participate in virtual classrooms that transcend geographical boundaries. This democratization of education has the potential to reduce inequalities and provide opportunities for lifelong learning to people of all ages and backgrounds.

Adaptive learning technologies, powered by AI, are personalizing education to meet individual student needs, potentially revolutionizing how we approach teaching and learning. Virtual and augmented reality technologies are creating immersive learning experiences, bringing abstract concepts to life and enhancing engagement.

However, the digital divide remains a significant challenge, with disparities in access to technology and high-speed internet potentially exacerbating educational inequalities. Additionally, the shift to digital learning raises questions about the social and emotional aspects of education that are traditionally fostered in physical classrooms.

The healthcare sector is experiencing a technological revolution that promises to transform patient care and medical research. Telemedicine has made healthcare more accessible, allowing patients to consult with doctors remotely. Wearable devices and IoT sensors are enabling continuous health monitoring, shifting the focus from reactive to preventive care. AI-assisted diagnostics are improving the accuracy and speed of disease detection, while robotic surgery is enhancing precision in complex procedures.

Genetic engineering and personalized medicine are opening new frontiers in treatment approaches, tailoring therapies to individual genetic profiles. 3D printing technology is creating new possibilities in prosthetics, implants, and even organ transplantation. The use of big data in healthcare is facilitating large-scale medical research, potentially accelerating the discovery of new treatments and cures.

However, these advancements also raise ethical concerns, particularly regarding data privacy, the equitable distribution of these technologies, and the potential for genetic discrimination. The integration of AI in healthcare decision-making also raises questions about accountability and the role of human judgment in medical care.

The entertainment industry has been radically altered by technology, with streaming services, virtual reality, and augmented reality offering immersive experiences that blur the lines between the digital and physical worlds. The rise of on-demand content has changed viewing habits and challenged traditional media models. Gaming has evolved into a multi-billion dollar industry, with esports competitions drawing millions of viewers worldwide and virtual worlds becoming increasingly sophisticated.

Social media influencers and user-generated content have democratized content creation, allowing individuals to reach global audiences. However, this shift has also raised concerns about content quality, intellectual property rights, and the impact of constant entertainment availability on productivity and mental health.

While technology offers solutions to many environmental challenges, it also presents its own set of environmental concerns. Innovations in renewable energy, smart grid systems, and energy-efficient devices are crucial in the fight against climate change. Smart city technologies promise to optimize resource use and reduce urban environmental footprints.

However, the production and disposal of electronic devices contribute significantly to pollution and resource depletion. The energy consumption of data centers and blockchain technologies raises questions about the sustainability of our digital infrastructure. Balancing technological progress with environmental stewardship remains a critical challenge for the coming decades.

As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, it often outstrips our ability to fully understand its implications or develop appropriate regulatory frameworks. Ethical dilemmas abound in areas such as AI development, data privacy, biotechnology, and the use of technology in warfare. The potential for technology to exacerbate social inequalities or be used for surveillance and control raises important questions about power dynamics in the digital age.

Looking to the future, emerging technologies like quantum computing, nanotechnology, and space exploration promise to push the boundaries of human achievement even further. The potential for these technologies to solve global challenges, from climate change to disease, is immense. However, they also carry risks that must be carefully managed.

As we navigate this digital age, it is clear that technology’s role in shaping our world is both undeniable and irreversible. The challenges we face are complex and multifaceted, requiring thoughtful consideration and proactive solutions. It is crucial that we approach technological advancements with a balance of enthusiasm and ethical consideration, ensuring that innovation serves humanity’s best interests while mitigating potential risks.

The future we create will depend on our ability to harness the power of technology responsibly, addressing challenges head-on, and working towards a world where technological progress enhances human potential and contributes to the greater good of society. As we stand on the brink of new technological frontiers, our choices today will shape the world of tomorrow, making it imperative that we proceed with wisdom, foresight, and a commitment to the wellbeing of all.

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Kate Billingsley

introduction

Technology is the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry. Technology is a tool that can be used to solve real-world problems. The field of Science, Technology, and Society (STS) “seeks to promote cross-disciplinary integration, civic engagement, and critical thinking” of concepts in the worlds of science and technology ( Harvard University, n.d.). As an aspect of everyday life, technology is continuously evolving to ensure that humanity can be productive, efficient, and follow the path of globalization . STS is a concept that encompasses countless fields of study. “Scientists, engineers, and medical professionals swim (as they must) in the details of their technical work: experiments, inventions, treatments and cures. “promotes cross-disciplinary integration, civic engagement, and critical thinking” It’s an intense and necessary focus” ( Stanford University , n.d.). On the opposite side of the spectrum is STS, which “draws attention to the water: the social, political, legal, economic, and cultural environment that shapes research and invention, supports or inhibits it — and is in turn shaped by evolving science and technology” ( Stanford University , n.d.). Technology is a crucial part of life that is constantly developing to fit the changing needs of society and aiding humanity in simplifying the demands of everyday life.

According to Oberdan (2010), science and technology share identical goals. “At first glance, they seem to provide a deep and thorough going division between the two but, as the discussion progresses, it will become clear that there are, indeed, areas of overlap, too” (Oberdan, 25). Philosophers believe that for a claim to be considered knowledge, it must first be justified, like a hypothesis, and true. Italian astronomer, physicist, and engineer, Galileo Galilei , was incredibly familiar with the obstacles involved with proving something to be a fact or a theory within the scientific world. Galileo was condemned by the Roman Catholic church for his beliefs that contradicted existing church doctrine (Coyne, 2013). Galileo’s discoveries, although denounced by the church were incredibly innovative and progressive for their time, and are still seen as the basis for modern astronomy today. Nearly 300 years later, Galileo was eventually forgiven by the church, and to this day he is seen as one of the most well known and influential astronomers of all time. Many new innovations and ideas often receive push back before becoming revolutionary and universal practices.

INNOVATION IN TECHNOLOGY

Flash forward to modern time where we can see that innovation is happening even more around us. Look no further than what could be considered the culmination of modern technological innovation: the mobile phone. Cell phone technology has developed exponentially since the invention of the first mobile phone in 1973 ( Seward , 2013). Although there was a period for roughly 20 years in which cell phones were seen as unnecessary and somewhat impractical, as society’s needs changed and developed in the late 1990s, there was a large spike in consumer purchases of mobile phones. Now, cell phones are an entity that can be seen virtually anywhere, which is in large part due to their practicality. Cell phones, specifically smartphones such as Apple’s iPhone , have changed the way society uses technology. Smartphone technology has eliminated the need for people to have a separate cell phone, MP3 player, GPS, mobile video gaming systems, and more. Consumers may fail to realize how many aspects of modern technological advancement are involved in the use of their mobile phones. Cell phones use wifi to browse the internet, use google, access social media, and more. Although these technologies are beneficial, they also allow consumers locations to be traced and phone conversations to be recorded. Modern cell phone technologies collect data on consumers, and many people are unsure how this information is being used. Additionally, mobile phones come equipped with virus protection which brings the field of cybersecurity into smartphone usage. The technological advances that have been made in the market for mobile phones have been targeted towards the changing needs of consumers and society. As proven by the rise in cell phones, with advancements in the field of STS comes new unforeseen obstacles and ethical dilemmas.

Technology is changing the way we live in this world. Innovations in the scientific world are becoming increasingly more advanced to help conserve earth’s resources and aid in the reduction of pollutants . Transportation is a field that has changed greatly in recent years due to modernization in science and technology, as well as an increased awareness of environmental concerns. The transportation industry continues to be a large producer of pollution

due to emissions from cars, trains, and other modes of transportation. As a result, cars have changed a great deal in recent years. A frontrunner in creating environmentally friendly luxury cars is Tesla, lead by CEO Elon Musk. Although nearly every brand of car has an electric option that either runs completely gas free, or uses significantly less fuel than standard cars, Tesla has taken this one step further and created a zero emissions vehicle. However, some believe that Tesla has taken their innovations in the transportation market a bit too far, specifically with their release of driverless cars.

“The recent reset of expectations on driverless cars is a leading indicator for other types of AI-enabled systems as well,” says David A. Mindell, professor of aeronautics and astronautics, and the Dibner Professor of the History of Engineering and Manufacturing at MIT. “These technologies hold great promise, but it takes time to understand the optimal combination of people and machines. And the timing of adoption is crucial for understanding the impact on workers” ( Dizikes , 2019).

As the earth becomes more and more polluted, consumers are seeking to find new ways to cut down on their negative impacts on the earth. Eco-friendly cars are a simple yet effective way in which consumers can cut back on their pollution within their everyday lives.

THE INTERSECTION OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

The way in which energy is generated has changed greatly to benefit consumers and the environment. Energy production has followed a rather linear path over time, and is a prime example of how new innovations stem from old technologies. In the early 1800s, the steam engine acted as the main form of creating energy. It wasn’t until the mid-late 1800s that the combustion engine was invented. This invention was beneficial because it was more efficient than its predecessor, and became a form of energy that was streamlined to be used in countless applications. As time has progressed, this linear path of innovation has continued. As new energy creating technologies have emerged, machinery that was once seen as efficient and effective have been phased out. Today, largely due to the increased demand for clean energy sources, the linear path has split and consumers are faced with numerous options for clean, environmentally friendly energy sources. Over time, scientists and engineers have come to realize that these forms of energy pollute and damage the earth. Solar power, a modern form of clean energy, was once seen as an expensive and impractical way of turning the sun’s energy into usable energy. Now, it is common to see newly built homes with solar panels already built in. Since technology develops to fit the needs of society, scientists have worked to improve solar panels to make them cheaper and easier to access. A total of 173,000 terawatts (trillions of watts) of solar energy strikes the Earth continuously, which is more than 10,000 times of the world’s total energy use ( Chandler , 2011). This information may seem staggering, but is crucial in understanding the importance, as well as the large influence that modern forms of energy can have on society.

Technology has become a crucial part of our society. Without technological advancements, so much of our everyday lives would be drastically different. As technology develops, it strives to fulfill the changing needs of society. Technology progresses as society evolves. That being said, progress comes at a price. This price is different for each person, and varies based on how much people value technological and scientific advancements in their own lives. Thomas Parke Hughes’s Networks of Power “compared how electric power systems developed in America, England, and Germany, showing that they required not only electrical but social ‘engineering’ to create the necessary legal frameworks, financing, standards, political support, and organizational designs” ( Stanford University ). In other words, the scientific invention and production of a new technology does not ensure its success. Technology’s success is highly dependent on society’s acceptance or rejection of a product, as well as whether or not any path dependence is involved. Changing technologies benefit consumers in countless aspects of their lives including in the workforce, in communications, in the use of natural resources, and so much more. These innovations across numerous different markets aid society by making it easier to complete certain tasks. Innovation will never end; rather, it will continue to develop at increasing rates as science and technological fields becomes more and more cutting edge.

Chapter Questions

True or False: Improvements in science and technology always benefit society
Multiple Choice : Technology is: A. The application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry B. Tools and machines that may be used to solve real-world problems C. Something that does not change D. Both A and B
Short Answer: Discuss ways in which technological progression over time is related and how this relationship has led to the creation of new innovation.

Chandler, D. (2011). Shining brightly: Vast amounts of solar energy radiate to the Earth constantly, but tapping that energy cost-effectively remains a challenge. MIT News. http://news.mit.edu/2011/energy-scale-part3-1026

Coyne, SJ, G. V. (2013). Science meets biblical exegesis in the Galileo affair. Zygon® , 48 (1), 221-229. https://doi-org.libproxy.clemson.edu/10.1111/j.1467-9744.2012.01324.x

Dizikes, P., & MIT News Office. (2019). MIT report examines how to make technology work for society. http://news.mit.edu/2019/work-future-report-technology-jobs-society-0904

Florez, D., García-Duque, C. E., & Osorio, J. C. (2019). Is technology (still) applied science? Technology in Society. Technology in Society, 59. doi: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2019.101193

Groce, J. E., Farrelly, M. A., Jorgensen, B. S., & Cook, C. N. (2019). Using social‐network research to improve outcomes in natural resource management. Conservation biology , 33 (1), 53-65. https://conbio.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/cobi.13127

Harvard University. (n.d.) What is STS? . http://sts.hks.harvard.edu/about/whatissts.html .

Union of Concerned Scientists. (2018). How Do Battery Electric Cars Work? https://www.ucsusa.org/clean-vehicles/electric-vehicles/how-do-battery-electric-cars-work .

Oberdan, T. (2010). Science, Technology, and the Texture of Our Lives. Tavenner Publishing Company.

Seward, Z. M. (2013). The First Mobile Phone Call Was Made 40 Years Ago Today . The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/04/the-first- mobile-phone-call-was-made-40-years-ago-today/274611/ .

Stanford University. (n.d.). What is the Study of STS? . https://sts.stanford.edu/about/what-study-sts .

Wei, R., & Lo, V.-H. (2006). Staying connected while on the move: Cell phone use and social connectedness. New Media & Society, 8 (1), 53–72. https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444806059870

Winston, B. (2006). Media Technology and Society: A History From the Telegraph to the Internet . London: Routledge.

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Building bridges between science and society for a better future. | Nadine Bongaerts | TEDxSaclay