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The Social and Ethical Implications of Science and Technology

Description: This quiz will evaluate your understanding of the social and ethical implications of science and technology.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: science and technology society ethics
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Which of the following is NOT a potential benefit of scientific and technological advancements?

  1. Improved healthcare

  2. Increased productivity

  3. Environmental degradation

  4. Enhanced communication


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

While scientific and technological advancements can bring about numerous benefits, environmental degradation is a potential negative consequence that needs to be addressed.

The concept of 'technological determinism' suggests that:

  1. Technology drives social and cultural change.

  2. Social and cultural factors shape technological development.

  3. Technology and society evolve independently of each other.

  4. Technological progress is inevitable and predetermined.


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Technological determinism posits that technological advancements have a significant influence on shaping social and cultural norms, values, and practices.

Which ethical principle emphasizes the importance of respecting individuals' autonomy and right to make decisions about their own lives?

  1. Beneficence

  2. Non-maleficence

  3. Justice

  4. Autonomy


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The principle of autonomy emphasizes the importance of respecting individuals' freedom to make choices and decisions about their own lives, without coercion or manipulation.

The 'digital divide' refers to the:

  1. Gap between those with access to digital technologies and those without.

  2. Unequal distribution of digital resources among different regions.

  3. Disparity in digital literacy and skills among individuals.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The digital divide encompasses the gap in access, resources, and skills related to digital technologies, leading to disparities among individuals and regions.

Which of the following is NOT a potential ethical concern related to artificial intelligence (AI)?

  1. Job displacement due to automation.

  2. Bias and discrimination in AI systems.

  3. Increased efficiency and productivity.

  4. Loss of human control over AI systems.


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

While AI can bring about increased efficiency and productivity, it is not typically considered an ethical concern in itself.

The precautionary principle in environmental ethics suggests that:

  1. Actions should be taken to prevent potential environmental harm, even if the evidence is inconclusive.

  2. Environmental regulations should be based on scientific certainty.

  3. Economic considerations should take precedence over environmental protection.

  4. Environmental policies should be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances.


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The precautionary principle emphasizes the need for proactive measures to prevent environmental harm, even when scientific evidence is not conclusive.

Which of the following is NOT a potential benefit of social media?

  1. Enhanced communication and connectivity.

  2. Access to information and news.

  3. Increased isolation and loneliness.

  4. Platform for social activism and change.


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

While social media can offer numerous benefits, increased isolation and loneliness are potential negative consequences that need to be considered.

The concept of 'responsible innovation' emphasizes the:

  1. Need for ethical considerations in technological development.

  2. Importance of stakeholder engagement in decision-making.

  3. Transparency and accountability in scientific research.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Responsible innovation encompasses ethical considerations, stakeholder engagement, and transparency in scientific research and technological development.

Which of the following is NOT a potential ethical concern related to genetic engineering?

  1. Unintended consequences on ecosystems.

  2. Potential for eugenics and discrimination.

  3. Increased food production and sustainability.

  4. Development of cures for genetic diseases.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

While genetic engineering has the potential to address genetic diseases, it is not typically considered an ethical concern in itself.

The concept of 'moral enhancement' in bioethics refers to:

  1. Using technology to improve human moral capacities.

  2. Promoting ethical behavior through education and social norms.

  3. Enhancing human physical and cognitive abilities.

  4. Developing artificial intelligence with moral reasoning capabilities.


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Moral enhancement involves the use of technology to improve human moral capacities, such as empathy, compassion, and ethical decision-making.

Which of the following is NOT a potential ethical concern related to nanotechnology?

  1. Environmental and health risks of nanoparticles.

  2. Potential for military and surveillance applications.

  3. Increased efficiency and precision in manufacturing.

  4. Development of new medical treatments and therapies.


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

While nanotechnology can bring about increased efficiency and precision in manufacturing, it is not typically considered an ethical concern in itself.

The concept of 'technological singularity' suggests that:

  1. Technology will eventually surpass human intelligence.

  2. Technology will lead to a utopian society.

  3. Technology will cause a global catastrophe.

  4. Technology will become indistinguishable from humanity.


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Technological singularity refers to the hypothetical point in time when technology surpasses human intelligence, leading to potentially transformative changes in society.

Which of the following is NOT a potential benefit of renewable energy sources?

  1. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

  2. Increased energy independence.

  3. Job creation in the clean energy sector.

  4. Lower energy costs for consumers.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

While renewable energy sources can offer environmental and economic benefits, lower energy costs for consumers are not always guaranteed.

The concept of 'sustainable development' emphasizes the:

  1. Need to balance economic growth with environmental protection.

  2. Importance of social equity and justice in development.

  3. Recognition of the limits of natural resources.

  4. All of the above.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Sustainable development encompasses economic growth, environmental protection, social equity, and the recognition of resource limitations.

Which of the following is NOT a potential ethical concern related to climate change?

  1. Environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity.

  2. Increased frequency and severity of natural disasters.

  3. Disruption of agricultural systems and food security.

  4. Economic benefits from new technologies and industries.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

While climate change can have significant economic impacts, economic benefits from new technologies and industries are not typically considered an ethical concern in themselves.

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