Davao Oriental State University
Guang-guang, Dahican, Mati City
Faculty of Nursing and Health Services
STS 10 – Science, Technology and Society
Human Flourishing in Progress and De-development
Activity No. 7
Name: ________________________________ Date Submitted: ________________
Course/Year/Section: ____________________ Sem/SY: 2nd Semester SY 2022-23_
Introduction
This activity introduces concept from Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics and examine issues in
contemporary science and technology using the same philosophical lens. It tackles the important
Aristotelian concepts of eudaimonia and arete and how these can be used to assess one’s
relationship and dealings with science and technology. As such, the section also aims to answer
the questions, “Are we living the good life?”
Intended Learning Outcomes
At the end of this activity, the students should be able to:
1. define the idea of a good life?
2. discuss Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia and arete; and
3. examine contemporary issues and come up with innovative and creative solutions to
contemporary issues guided by ethical standards leading to a good life.
Reading Comprehension Task
Instructions: Compare and contrast each pair of terms related to Aristotle’s Nichomachean Ethics
as discussed in this section and give an example. Group yourselves in to 10, assigned 2 students
in each questions and discuss your answers within your group. Questions will be answered in
hand written.
1. Instrumental Good – Ultimate Good
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2. Pleasure - Happiness
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3. Virtue - Vice
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4. Intellectual Virtue – Moral Virtue
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5. Science and Technology – Good Life
Aristotle's Nichomachean Ethics emphasizes the importance of leading a good life, which he defines as a
life of virtue and excellence. Science and technology have had a profound impact on our lives, and have
contributed to improving overall well-being and quality of life in many ways. In this essay, we will
compare and contrast science and technology in relation to Aristotle's Nichomachean Ethics.
One of the key similarities between science and technology and Aristotle's Nichomachean Ethics is their
shared goal of improving the human condition. Aristotle believed that the ultimate goal of human life
was to achieve eudaimonia, or happiness, which he believed could be achieved through the cultivation of
virtue and excellence. Similarly, science and technology have been used to improve the lives of people
in numerous ways, such as by improving healthcare, increasing access to education, and developing
sustainable energy sources.
Another similarity between science and technology and Aristotle's Nichomachean Ethics is their focus
on the importance of reason and rationality. Aristotle believed that human beings were unique in their
ability to reason and that this was a key factor in achieving a good life
References:
Write all your references used in this activity.
Aristotle's Nichomachean Ethics emphasizes the importance of leading a good life, which he defines
as a life of virtue and excellence. Science and technology have had a profound impact on our lives, and have
contributed to improving overall well-being and quality of life in many ways. In this context, we will
examine the interconnection between science and a good life in the light of Aristotle’s Nicomachean ethical
framework.
The shared objective of elevating the state of humanity is one of the main parallels between science,
technology, and the good life. Aristotle thought that obtaining eudaimonia, or happiness, was the ultimate
purpose of life and that this could be done through cultivating virtue and excellence. By harnessing the
power of science and technology, people may foster the conditions necessary for human potential to be
achieved resulting in a meaningful and prosperous lifestyle. For instance, through better healthcare, we
could offer life-saving treatment, further develop public health, and increase general well-being.
Additionally, the impact can result with elevated educational accessibility and the creation of renewable
energy sources. It is possible to utilize scientific information intelligently to make well-informed judgments
to strengthen society. To avoid damage and promote the common good, technology development, and usage
should also be in line with ethical standards. We may establish a harmonious link between science,
technology, and the good life by incorporating ethical issues into our scientific and technical pursuits.
Technology, which includes practical applications arising from scientific discoveries, also
contributes to improving human well-being. However, the development and use of science and technology
must be governed by ethical principles that adhere to Aristotle's ethical system. We have the chance to create
a society where scientific breakthroughs and technical innovations contribute to a more fulfilling, wealthy,
and meaningful living for people by fully exploiting the boundless opportunities of science and technology.
