Basic Science and Technology - Junior Secondary 3 - Ethical issues in Science and development

TERM: 3^RD TERM

WEEK: 6

CLASS: Junior Secondary School 3

AGE: 14 years

DURATION: 40 minutes each for 2 periods

DATE:

SUBJECT: Basic Science

TOPIC: Ethical issues in Science and development

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, the learners should be able to

1. ) Define the term ethical issues
2. ) Outline the right application of science and development
3. ) Outline the wrong application of science and development
4. ) Discuss the implications of bad scientific practices and its adverse effects on a country

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers, demonstration, story-telling, videos from source

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: Recommended Basic Science textbooks for Junior Secondary School 3

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES: PERIOD 1-2:

NOTE

ETHICAL ISSUES IN SCIENCE AND DEVELOPMENT

Ethical Issues refer to situations or dilemmas where questions of right and wrong, fairness, and justice arise, typically in the context of human actions, decisions, or practices. These issues often involve conflicts between different values or principles, and their resolution requires careful consideration of moral and societal implications.

Right Application of Science and Development

The right application of science and development involves using scientific knowledge and technologies responsibly for the benefit of humanity, society, and the environment. Some examples include:

• Health Advancements: Using scientific discoveries in medicine to improve public health, such as vaccines, disease prevention, and treatments for chronic conditions.
• Sustainable Development: Developing renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind energy, to reduce environmental impact.
• Technological Innovations: Applying technology to improve education, agriculture, transportation, and communication, which leads to better living standards.
• Ethical Research: Ensuring that research and experiments, particularly those involving humans or animals, follow ethical standards and respect for life.

Wrong Application of Science and Development

The wrong application of science and development refers to the misuse or harmful use of scientific knowledge and technology, often driven by unethical motives or lack of oversight. Examples include:

• Environmental Degradation: Using scientific advancements in industrial practices that pollute the environment, contribute to climate change, or harm biodiversity (e.g., excessive use of pesticides or deforestation).
• Biotechnology Misuse: Genetic manipulation or cloning without proper ethical considerations, which could have unintended consequences on human health and ecosystems.
• Weapons Development: The development of weapons of mass destruction, such as nuclear or chemical weapons, which can cause catastrophic harm to populations and the environment.
• Exploitation of Vulnerable Populations: Using scientific experiments for profit or advancement at the expense of human rights or exploiting vulnerable communities (e.g., unethical clinical trials in low-income countries).

Implications of Bad Scientific Practices and Its Adverse Effects on a Country

Bad scientific practices can have serious and far-reaching consequences for a country, including:

• Health Risks: Poor scientific practices, such as conducting unsafe experiments or failing to follow ethical guidelines, can lead to health crises, diseases, or contamination. For example, inadequate safety standards in pharmaceutical research could lead to harmful drugs being released to the public.
• Environmental Damage: Misuse of scientific knowledge or ignoring environmental concerns can result in long-term ecological harm, such as air and water pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. This damage can disrupt ecosystems and harm future generations.
• Loss of Public Trust: When science is applied incorrectly, it can lead to skepticism and distrust among the public. This is especially harmful in times of crisis, such as during the pandemic, where scientific guidance is essential for public health.
• Economic Impact: If scientific advancements are not applied correctly, a country may face economic losses, such as investments in harmful or ineffective technologies, failure to address pressing issues like energy shortages, or damage to industries that rely on clean, sustainable practices.
• Ethical and Legal Consequences: Bad scientific practices can lead to legal action, government intervention, or international condemnation. This can affect the reputation of scientists, institutions, and the country, leading to diplomatic conflicts and reduced collaboration in global scientific initiatives.

EVALUATION:

1. What are ethical issues in science and development, and how can they impact the advancement of technology?
2. Explain the difference between the right and wrong applications of science, providing examples of each.
3. What are the potential consequences of bad scientific practices on public health, the environment, and society?
4. How can the ethical application of science contribute to sustainable development and improve living conditions?
5. Discuss how bad scientific practices can affect a country's international reputation and economic stability.

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher marks their books and commends them positively