Science – Gp Lah!

Science and technology have not allowed man to master the environment. Comment.

Science and technology have significantly advanced environmental understanding and management,

Science and technology have significantly advanced environmental understanding and management, but they have not enabled complete mastery due to unforeseen challenges, limitations, and unintended consequences.

I. Introduction

Hook: Technological leaps have not helped mankind to truly master the environment.
Background: Overview of technological advancements and their environmental impact.
Thesis Statement: Science and technology have advanced environmental management, but mankind has not achieved complete mastery due to his own limitations.

II. Supporting View 1: Unforeseen Environmental Challenges

Topic Sentence: The understanding of the environment through science and technology have not allowed complete mastery due to unforeseen environmental challenges.
Example 1: The Australian bushfires (2019-2020) demonstrated the limits of fire prediction and prevention technologies. Extreme weather and climate change exacerbated fire conditions (source: BBC, 2020).
Example 2: Plastic pollution in the oceans (2015-2021) remains uncontrollable despite advanced waste management technologies. Microplastics have permeated marine ecosystems (source: The Guardian, 2020).
Example 3: European floods (2021) showed the inadequacy of current flood prevention infrastructure. Record rainfall overwhelmed existing systems (source: Reuters, 2021).
Analysis: Technological advancements often fail to predict or mitigate extreme environmental events. Over 18 million hectares burned, and billions of animals affected. Approximately 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the oceans annually.
Counterargument: Advances in some areas have helped mitigate some risks.

III. Supporting View 2: Technological Limitations

Topic Sentence: The understanding of the environment has not been enchanced through science as technological limitations impede the complete mastery of the environment.
Example 1: Japan’s struggle with nuclear waste disposal (2016-2021) highlights the long-term challenges of nuclear technology. Safe, permanent storage solutions remain elusive (source: The Japan Times, 2021).
Example 2: Inadequate renewable energy storage in Germany (2016-2021) limits the effectiveness of green energy solutions. Energy storage technology has not kept pace with renewable production (source: Reuters, 2019).
Example 3: Soil degradation in India (2017-2021) due to over-reliance on chemical fertilisers. Technological solutions have led to unintended soil health issues (source: The Hindu, 2020). 30% of India’s agricultural land is degraded.
Analysis: Technological solutions often have inherent limitations and unforeseen negative impacts.
Case Study: Fukushima’s ongoing challenges with radioactive waste.
Counterargument: Advances in nuclear technology have improved safety and efficiency.

IV. Supporting View 3: Unintended Consequences of Technological Solutions

Topic Sentence: Technological solutions can have unintended environmental consequences. As such the understanding of the environment is still not complete.
Example 1: China’s rapid urbanisation (2015-2021) led to severe air and water pollution. Industrial growth outpaced environmental regulations (source: The Guardian, 2019). Air pollution causes over 1 million premature deaths annually in China.
Example 2: Deforestation in Brazil (2016-2021) due to biofuel production. Policies promoting biofuels led to significant forest loss (source: BBC, 2021).
Example 3: Overfishing in Indonesia (2018-2021) driven by advanced fishing technologies. Technological efficiency led to depleted fish stocks (source: Reuters, 2020). 50% decline in fish populations over the last decade.
Analysis: Technological advances can create new environmental problems while solving others.
Counterargument: Urban planning and green technologies are improving urban environments.

V. Opposing View 1: Enhanced Environmental Monitoring and Management

Topic Sentence: Science and technology have enabled better environmental monitoring and management.
Example 1: Norway’s use of satellite technology (2017-2021) for forest monitoring. Improved deforestation tracking and conservation efforts (source: BBC, 2019). Satellite data reduced illegal logging by 40%.
Example 2: Singapore’s green plan and urban sustainability initiatives (2016-2021) using smart city technologies. Advanced systems reduced urban heat and improved energy efficiency (source: The Straits Times, 2020). 15% reduction in urban heat island effect. [Read: Singapore smart nation initiative]
Example 3: Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts (2015-2021) aided by GPS and drones. Technology helped track and protect endangered species (source: Al Jazeera, 2021). 25% increase in wildlife populations.
Analysis: Technological tools have significantly improved environmental management and conservation.

VI. Opposing View 2: Renewable Energy Advancements

Topic Sentence: Technological advancements have significantly increased renewable energy production.
Example 1: Denmark’s wind energy development (2016-2021) leading to a high percentage of renewable energy. Advanced turbines and grid integration boosted efficiency (source: Reuters, 2019). Wind energy provides 47% of Denmark’s electricity.
Example 2: India’s solar power expansion (2017-2021) reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Large-scale solar farms contributed to significant energy shifts (source: The Hindu, 2020). Solar energy capacity reached 40 GW in 2021.
Example 3: Costa Rica’s commitment to renewable energy (2015-2021) achieving nearly 100% renewable electricity. Hydropower, wind, and solar integrated into the national grid (source: BBC, 2019). 99% of electricity from renewable sources.
Analysis: Advances in renewable energy technology have made substantial contributions to sustainable energy production.

VII. Opposing View 3: Innovative Environmental Solutions

Topic Sentence: Innovations have provided effective solutions to environmental problems.
Example 1: Netherlands’ flood management systems (2015-2021) using advanced engineering. Innovative dykes and barriers mitigated flooding risks (source: The Guardian, 2018). Flood damage reduced by 80% with new infrastructure.
Example 2: Vertical farming in Singapore (2016-2021) addressing urban food security. High-tech farms reduced land use and improved local food production (source: The Straits Times, 2019). 25% of vegetables produced locally in vertical farms.
Example 3: Finland’s waste-to-energy plants (2017-2021) turning waste into electricity. Innovative technology reduced landfill use and generated power (source: Reuters, 2019). 10% of electricity from waste-to-energy plants.
Analysis: Technological innovations continue to provide effective solutions to environmental challenges.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Science and technology have advanced environmental management but have not achieved complete mastery due to various limitations.
Summary of Key Points: Unforeseen challenges, technological limitations, unintended consequences versus enhanced monitoring, renewable energy, innovative solutions.
Call to Action: Suggest specific steps individuals, governments, and organizations can take to improve environmental outcomes.
Final Thought: While technology has made strides in managing the environment, a holistic approach considering limitations and consequences is essential for true mastery.

Additional Examples

Copenhagen, Denmark: With its continuous investment in green tech and network of bicycle lanes, Copenhagen is one of the most sustainable cities. The city aims to be the first carbon-neutral city by 2025.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam — another on the list of most eco-friendly cities — promotes electric vehicles with citywide EV charging stations. Residents are encouraged to install rooftop solar panels and grow their own food or purchase locally, which contributes to the local economy.
Stockholm, Sweden: Stockholm is a well-planned sustainable city with a goal to eliminate the use of fossil fuels within 20 years.
Berlin, Germany: Berlin is one of the best urban sustainability examples, with over 400 EV charging stations, and has been investing in green spaces since World War I.
Portland, Oregon: Portland has adopted a sustainability culture, and today ¼ of its citizens commute by bike or public transport. Rideshare systems and bike paths also support green commute methods.
San Francisco, California: San Francisco is one of the most sustainable cities in the US, with a zero waste program designed to divert 100% of waste from landfills by 2020. The city also banned products like plastic bags and water bottles.
Cape Town, South Africa: Cape Town began installing wind farms to produce sustainable energy in 2008. The city’s residents also use solar panels and grow urban gardens for food production.
Helsinki, Finland: If you are an eco-traveler, Helsinki is worth visiting. A large percentage of the city’s hotel rooms have been certified as eco-friendly. The city is also developing sustainable living communities.
Vancouver, Canada: Vancouver produces the lowest amount of greenhouse gases in North America. The city’s environmental focus has created a local green economy boom for the residents, supporting more green jobs and locally grown food.
Reykjavik, Iceland: Reykjavik is making great strides towards eradicating generation of greenhouse emissions by inspiring people to walk, cycle, and use public transport. The city also encourages use of electric vehicles and plans to triple the number of hydrogen buses by 2030.

The idea that science will one day create a perfect world is a dangerous delusion. Discuss.

There is little doubt that science is a stealthy snake. While science has made significant progress, the belief that it will create a perfect world is a dangerous delusion due to ethical, social, and environmental concerns.

I. Introduction

Hook: The promise of a perfect world through science captivates many. But science is dangerous.
Background: Overview of scientific advancements and their impact on society.
Thesis Statement: While science has made significant progress, the belief that it will create a perfect world is a dangerous delusion due to ethical, social, and environmental concerns.

II. Supporting View 1: Ethical Concerns

Topic Sentence: Science is dangerous so much so that scientific advancements often raise ethical concerns.
Example 1: In 2018, China’s gene-editing of babies sparked global ethical debates.
Example 2: In 2020, Japan faced ethical questions about AI in healthcare.
Example 3: In 2019, India’s use of biometric data raised privacy concerns.
Analysis: These examples show how ethical dilemmas challenge the notion of a perfect world through science.

III. Supporting View 2: Social Inequality

Topic Sentence: Science can exacerbate social inequality.
Example 1: In 2021, South Africa’s unequal vaccine distribution highlighted disparities.
Example 2: In 2019, India’s digital divide worsened educational inequalities.
Example 3: In 2020, the UK’s access to advanced healthcare technologies was unequal.
Analysis: These instances illustrate how scientific progress can increase social inequalities.

IV. Supporting View 3: Environmental Impact

Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements can harm the environment.
Example 1: In 2021, Brazil’s deforestation for biofuel production harmed ecosystems.
Example 2: In 2020, Australia’s mining activities caused significant environmental damage.
Example 3: In 2019, China’s industrial pollution remained a severe issue.
Analysis: These cases demonstrate that scientific progress often comes with environmental costs.

V. Opposing View 1: Solving Global Problems

Topic Sentence: Science has the potential to solve global problems.
Example 1: In 2021, Germany’s renewable energy initiatives addressed climate change.
Example 2: In 2019, Japan’s disaster prevention technologies saved lives.
Example 3: In 2020, India’s clean water projects improved public health.
Analysis: These examples show how scientific advancements can address critical global issues.

VI. Opposing View 2: Enhancing Quality of Life

Topic Sentence: Science enhances the quality of life for many.
Example 1: In 2020, South Korea’s healthcare innovations extended life expectancy.
Example 2: In 2019, Switzerland’s technological advancements improved daily convenience.
Example 3: In 2021, Finland’s education technology enhanced learning experiences.
Analysis: These instances highlight how science can significantly improve quality of life.

VII. Opposing View 3: Economic Growth

Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements drive economic growth.
Example 1: In 2019, China’s tech industry boosted its economy.
Example 2: In 2020, India’s IT sector created numerous jobs.
Example 3: In 2021, Germany’s engineering innovations fueled economic development.
Analysis: These examples illustrate that scientific progress can lead to substantial economic benefits.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While science has made significant progress, the belief that science will create a perfect world is a dangerous delusion due to ethical, social, and environmental concerns.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Strive for balanced progress that considers ethical, social, and environmental impacts.

Reading References:

Harari, Yuval Noah. Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow. 2016.
Joy, Bill. “Why the Future Doesn’t Need Us.” Wired, April 2000.
Susskind, Richard. Future Politics: Living Together in a World Transformed by Tech. 2018.
Jasanoff, Sheila. The Ethics of Invention: Technology and the Human Future. 2016.
Bostrom, Nick. Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies. 2014.

The main benefits of science have been material comforts and longer life. Do you agree?

While science has undeniably provided material comforts and longer life, its main benefits extend to environmental preservation, global communication, and enhanced knowledge.

I. Introduction

Hook: Science has revolutionised our lives in many ways.
Background: Overview of the impacts of scientific advancements on society.
Thesis Statement: While science has undeniably provided material comforts and longer life, its main benefits extend to environmental preservation, global communication, and enhanced knowledge.

II. Supporting View 1: Material Comforts

Topic Sentence: Science has greatly improved material comforts.
Example 1: In 2021, Japan’s advancements in robotics improved household convenience.
Example 2: In 2019, Germany’s renewable energy innovations led to sustainable living.
Example 3: In 2020, South Korea’s smart home technology enhanced everyday comfort.
Analysis: These examples show how scientific advancements have provided significant material comforts.

III. Supporting View 2: Longer Life

Topic Sentence: Science has extended human lifespan.
Example 1: In 2021, the UK’s COVID-19 vaccines saved countless lives.
Example 2: In 2020, Japan’s advancements in geriatric care improved elderly health.
Example 3: In 2019, Singapore’s healthcare innovations increased life expectancy.
Analysis: These instances illustrate how scientific progress has contributed to longer, healthier lives.

IV. Supporting View 3: Improved Quality of Life

Topic Sentence: Science has improved the overall quality of life.
Example 1: In 2020, Sweden’s advancements in clean air technology improved public health.
Example 2: In 2019, Norway’s electric vehicle adoption reduced pollution.
Example 3: In 2018, Switzerland’s medical research advancements provided better disease management.
Analysis: These examples highlight how science has enhanced life quality through health and environmental improvements.

V. Opposing View 1: Environmental Preservation

Topic Sentence: Science has provided material comforts but more significantly science also has contributed to environmental preservation.
Example 1: In 2021, Costa Rica’s use of renewable energy promoted sustainability.
Example 2: In 2019, Kenya’s conservation technology protected wildlife.
Example 3: In 2020, the Netherlands’ water management technology prevented flooding.
Analysis: These instances demonstrate science’s role in protecting and preserving the environment.

VI. Opposing View 2: Global Communication

Topic Sentence: Besides providing material comforts, science has transformed global communication.
Example 1: In 2020, India’s satellite technology improved rural connectivity.
Example 2: In 2019, South Korea’s 5G network revolutionised communication.
Example 3: In 2021, Finland’s internet technology enabled remote working.
Analysis: These examples show how scientific advancements have facilitated better global communication and connectivity.

VII. Opposing View 3: Enhanced Knowledge

Topic Sentence: Science has significantly enhanced human knowledge. This overshadows the aspect of science has provided material comforts.
Example 1: In 2021, CERN’s research in Switzerland advanced our understanding of physics.
Example 2: In 2019, Japan’s space missions provided new insights into the universe.
Example 3: In 2020, China’s AI research pushed the boundaries of technology.
Analysis: These instances illustrate science’s role in expanding our knowledge and understanding of the world.

VIII. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While science has provided material comforts and longer life, its main benefits extend to environmental preservation, global communication, and enhanced knowledge.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: The true value of science lies in its broad and transformative impact on all aspects of life.

Is it true that advancements in science have forced us to rethink our values?

Advancements in science have indeed forced us to rethink our values, particularly in ethics and privacy. However, some argue these changes reinforce existing values and encourage adaptation.

I. Introduction

Hook: Science transforms our understanding of the world.
Background: Brief overview of recent scientific advancements and their societal impacts.
Thesis Statement: Advancements in science have indeed forced us to rethink our values, particularly in ethics and privacy. However, some argue these changes reinforce existing values and encourage adaptation.

II. Supporting View 1: Ethical Implications

Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements challenge our ethical values.
Example 1: In 2018, Chinese scientist He Jiankui’s gene-editing of babies raised global ethical concerns.
Example 2: In 2020, the UK’s debates on AI and facial recognition technology highlighted privacy concerns.
Example 3: In 2019, the CRISPR gene-editing advancements in Europe sparked ethical debates.
Analysis: These examples show how science forces us to reconsider ethical boundaries and responsibilities.

III. Supporting View 2: Privacy Concerns

Topic Sentence: Technological advancements raise significant privacy issues.
Example 1: In 2020, India’s Aarogya Setu app for COVID-19 contact tracing raised data privacy concerns.
Example 2: In 2021, China’s extensive surveillance systems led to debates on individual privacy.
Example 3: In 2019, the EU’s GDPR implementation highlighted the need for data protection.
Analysis: These cases illustrate how advancements in science and technology compel us to rethink privacy values.

IV. Opposing View 1: Reinforcement of Existing Values

Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements often reinforce our existing values.
Example 1: In 2019, Japan’s use of robots to care for the elderly reinforced values of compassion and care.
Example 2: In 2020, the UK’s ethical guidelines on AI ensured the technology aligned with societal values.
Example 3: In 2021, Sweden’s renewable energy projects reaffirmed environmental sustainability values.
Analysis: These examples demonstrate how science can support and enhance our existing values.

V. Opposing View 2: Encouraging Adaptation

Topic Sentence: Science encourages the adaptation of values rather than a complete rethink.
Example 1: In 2021, South Korea’s digital education advancements adapted values of learning and accessibility.
Example 2: In 2019, Singapore’s smart city initiatives adapted to values of efficiency and safety.
Example 3: In 2020, the EU’s climate policies adapted to values of environmental stewardship and responsibility.
Analysis: These instances show how advancements in science prompt value adaptations rather than a fundamental shift.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: Scientific advancements force us to rethink ethical and human rights, but they also reinforce and adapt existing values.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views.
Final Thought: Balance innovation with ethical considerations to navigate the evolving landscape.

Only science can save the environment. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: In the face of mounting environmental crises, the question of how best to protect and restore our planet has become increasingly urgent.
Background: Brief overview of the contributions of scientific advancements to environmental conservation and the role of other disciplines.
Thesis Statement: While science plays an essential role in addressing environmental issues through technological innovation, social, political, and cultural efforts are equally crucial in creating sustainable change, indicating that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary to effectively save the environment.

II. Supporting View 1: Technological Innovations

Topic Sentence: Scientific advancements provide vital technological innovations that address environmental challenges.
Example 1: Renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, have significantly reduced reliance on fossil fuels and decreased greenhouse gas emissions. See Germany’s Energiewende.
Example 2: Advances in environmental engineering, such as water purification systems and sustainable agricultural practices, help mitigate pollution and promote resource conservation. See China’s and India’s green revolution.
Analysis: Discuss how these technologies highlight the indispensable role of science in developing practical solutions to environmental problems.

III. Supporting View 2: Data-Driven Solutions

Topic Sentence: Science offers data-driven solutions that are critical for understanding and managing environmental issues.
Example 1: Climate modelling and satellite monitoring provide accurate data on climate change patterns, guiding policy decisions and mitigation strategies. See strategy in Kenya to help farmers.
Example 2: Scientific research on biodiversity loss informs conservation efforts, such as the establishment of protected areas and wildlife corridors. See expansion of conservation efforts in Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, Peru.
Analysis: Examine how these scientific contributions enable informed decision-making and effective management of environmental resources.

IV. Opposing View 1: Importance of Political Will and Policy

Topic Sentence: Effective environmental conservation also requires strong political will and comprehensive policy measures.
Example 1: International agreements like the Paris Agreement rely on political cooperation and commitment to reduce global carbon emissions.
Example 2: National policies promoting sustainability, such as the Rwanda and UK’s ban on single-use plastics, demonstrate the impact of legislative action on environmental protection.
Analysis: Discuss how these political efforts are crucial for implementing and enforcing scientific solutions, highlighting the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach.

V. Opposing View 2: Role of Social and Cultural Change

Topic Sentence: Social and cultural change is essential for fostering environmental awareness and sustainable behaviours.
Example 1: Grassroots movements like Extinction Rebellion and Fridays for Future mobilise public support and pressure governments to take action on climate change.
Example 2: Educational campaigns and community initiatives, such as recycling programmes and sustainable lifestyle workshops, promote environmental responsibility and engagement. See recycling initiatives in Germany and Taiwan.
Analysis: Explore how these social efforts complement scientific solutions by changing public attitudes and behaviours towards the environment.

Science has more value than art. Discuss.

I. Introduction

Hook: In contemporary discourse, the debate over whether science or art holds more value is both prevalent and polarising.
Background: Brief overview of the contributions of science and art to society, highlighting their differing but complementary roles.
Thesis Statement: While science undeniably offers crucial advancements and practical benefits to society, art holds significant value through its capacity to enrich human experience, foster creativity, and provide cultural and emotional insights, demonstrating that both domains are essential in their unique ways.

II. Supporting View 1: Practical Benefits of Science

Topic Sentence: Science provides practical benefits that are indispensable for the advancement and well-being of society.
Example 1: Medical breakthroughs, such as the development of vaccines and treatments for diseases, have significantly improved life expectancy and quality of life. For instance, the rapid development and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines.
Example 2: Technological innovations like the internet and renewable energy sources have transformed industries and everyday life, enhancing connectivity and sustainability.
Analysis: Discuss how these advancements highlight the practical and transformative impact of scientific progress on society.

III. Supporting View 2: Advancement of Knowledge and Problem-Solving

Topic Sentence: Science advances knowledge and addresses critical global challenges through rigorous problem-solving methods.
Example 1: Climate change research in environmental science has provided crucial data and strategies for combating global warming, such as the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Example 2: Space exploration, led by agencies like NASA and ESA, expands our understanding of the universe and drives technological innovations that benefit multiple sectors.
Analysis: Examine how the pursuit of scientific knowledge and solutions to complex problems underscores the intrinsic value of science.

IV. Opposing View 1: Enrichment of Human Experience Through Art

Topic Sentence: Art enriches human experience by fostering creativity, emotional expression, and cultural understanding.
Example 1: The popularity of contemporary art movements, such as street art by artists like Banksy, which provoke thought and dialogue on social issues.
Example 2: The role of music, literature, and visual arts in promoting mental health and well-being, as seen in initiatives like art therapy and music therapy programmes.
Analysis: Discuss how these examples illustrate the profound impact of art on emotional well-being and cultural enrichment.

V. Opposing View 2: Cultural and Emotional Insights Provided by Art

Topic Sentence: Art provides valuable cultural and emotional insights that are essential for a well-rounded understanding of the human condition.
Example 1: The resurgence of interest in eclectic arts such as performance art and digital media art, which reflect and shape contemporary cultural and social dynamics.
Example 2: The influence of literature and theatre in exploring complex human emotions and societal issues, exemplified by works like Shakespeare’s plays and modern novels addressing social justice.
Analysis: Explore how these forms of art contribute to a deeper appreciation of human experiences and societal issues, highlighting their enduring relevance.

VI. Conclusion

Restate Thesis: While science offers practical advancements and problem-solving capabilities crucial for societal progress, art enriches human experience, fosters creativity, and provides cultural and emotional insights, underscoring the unique and complementary value of both domains.
Summary of Key Points: Recap the main supporting and opposing views discussed.
Final Thought: Emphasise the need to value and support both science and art, recognising their distinct contributions to a balanced and thriving society.

Can beliefs affect our ability to reason?

Philosophers throughout history have attempted to explain concepts and divine processes. In achieving this they have always applied reason and logical explanation. Any explanation that seemed illogical or unreal was questioned. However, there has been a constant struggle between belief and reason. Beliefs are ideas that are based on religious, moral and political faiths. Beliefs affect the ability to reason because beliefs cannot be easily changed, they are facts for people and they create boundaries that hinder reasoning.

Belief can hinder reasoning because once they are accepted, they imperceptibly become facts. Belief immediately gets accepted as reality and further questioning or inquiry becomes difficult. For example, Galileo Galilei faced backlash and imprisonment because his theory was against the belief of the church that the earth is the centre of the universe. The idea can also be seen in how many religious groups are against stem cell research because these groups consider stem cell manipulation equivalent to playing god. Therefore, beliefs once ingrained are treated as confirmed facts and become resistant to suggestions and challenge. Hence, belief and reason are not compatible as belief becomes grounds for unproven facts.

Beliefs define an individual’s personal sense of reality and knowledge. Human beings have a belief system and through this mechanism, they individually, “make sense” of the world around them Humans need belief systems in varying degrees to cope with events in their lives. For example, religion may fill the human need for finding meaning and not thinking about the existential angst while supporting social movements. Everyone has opinions, biases, and feelings that shape their own beliefs. Based on these factors, people form their opinions which may lead to improper reasoning. However, reason and beliefs are not mutually exclusive. Atheists use reasoning to believe that God does not exist. Some religious faiths believe that their way is the only way to salvation. Therefore, beliefs shape our opinions and we stick to our beliefs which eventually affects our reasoning.

Political beliefs are also hard to change because they can be hard-wired into our brain. Political beliefs might affect the ability to think logically because people do not wish to see things from another perspective. People with strong political beliefs use arguments that support their personal viewpoint. For example, a debate in the United States ensued about spending a significant portion of the budget on national defence but in a subsequent survey when participants were asked if military funding should be reduced, the respondents disagreed according to their political beliefs. It is evident that people immediately reject ideas that even slightly threaten their beliefs as it is considered as a direct attack on their identities. Therefore, beliefs do diminish our ability to reason because strong beliefs act as facts for people.

There are religious beliefs that place little to no boundaries on reasoning. Taoism and Paganism place few constraints over rational thinking. These religious belief systems, allow individuals to explore and develop your own path and ability to reason. Therefore, we can say that belief does not always hinder our ability to reason. However, the majority of religious beliefs create boundaries that hinder reasoning. These beliefs that have no basis in fact or proof cause the greatest distortion of perception. For example, religious beliefs rooted in Abrahamic religions or religions of Semitic origin like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, have many restrictions and boundaries. Strong religious beliefs reject facts and ideas that conflict with their boundaries. For example, Sharia laws demand the death penalty for issues like the abandonment of religious beliefs and blasphemy. Therefore, not all religions are created equally and many religious beliefs do hamper our ability to reason.

In conclusion, it can be said that belief does have the ability to affect reason. Beliefs cannot be easily changed and some beliefs also need reasoning. In most cases, though we stick to our rational or irrational beliefs whether religious, ideological or political which eventually affects our reasoning. Science has the potential to change beliefs, but its ultimate impact is contingent upon how literate, liberal and lucid people are.

Consider the view that more scientists than artists are needed in the world today.

This essay explores the comparative usefulness of scientists and artists in the modern world. Knowing that the world today depends heavily on the use of technology for survival, it is not surprising that scientists are seen to be more useful. Artists are considered to be inconsequential to the overall survival of societies as their usefulness is often to abstract to be understood by the laypeople.

It is important to compare and contrast between the functions and purposes of scientists versus artists based on the modern world contexts. The comparisons must be based on recognised criteria. Ensure that the comparison is within characteristics of the modern world.

The danger of modern science is that instead of teaching mankind humility, it has made us arrogant. Discuss.

Many have started to believe that scientific knowledge is turning people arrogant to the extent that people think that the gods themselves. Agreeing with this view, it can be said that modern science is making people arrogant as is evident from various experiments like the ability to control humans, genome editing and taking decisions that can affect all life on the earth.

Scientists have continuously strived to unravel the mysteries of the universe and explain various factors. For example, recently, NASA discovered that there is a constant humming sound heard underneath the surface of Mars. This Martian hum is just one in a slew of fresh mysteries and discoveries detected by scientists in recent years. The explanation regarding planetary collisions, asteroids destroying earth have all made humans realise that earth is just a speck of blue dust in the larger scheme of the universe. This scientific knowledge is enough to humble us and fear the multitude of the unknown phenomenon. Thus, it can be said that the sheer knowledge that our struggles are insignificant in the vast universe shows that science has the power to make us humble instead of arrogant.

However, in today’s world, man has started to ignore the basic tenets of science. Science it seems has made people so powerful that they have the power to save or destroy lives. This very fact has boosted the arrogance of people today.

Genetic engineering is another example where people display arrogance and try to play god. While in the earlier times, breaking rules were necessary to bring forth better theories concerning our existence, in recent times, scientists and doctors are taking science to the extreme and breaking rules in an unethical manner. A recent example of this can be the Chinese scientist He Jiankui who used gene-editing to provide HIV-resistance to twin babies. The act raised many ethical questions as any discrepancies in the genes will be passed on for generations. Moreover, with the benefits of CRISPR technology becoming apparent, many, bioethicists warned that the technology should not be used in healthy human embryos until doctors are sure about the consequences. Even after the warnings, the scientists have not stopped using the technology in some capacity. In the wise words of Jean Rostand, a French biologist and philosopher: “Science has made us gods even before we are worthy of being a man.” Thus, science has made people more arrogant than humble because it has given scientists immense power in hand.

Science has not only given humans the power to control human lives but has extended the power to control other species. This is evident from the fact that scientists use animals for medical testing in brutal ways. An example of this was seen in 2019, when a research laboratory in Hamburg, subjected monkeys to “barbaric” treatment and kept dogs in squalid conditions. Furthermore, pets today are cloned and is a booming industry. Pet cloning industries often tout this as a service that brings dead pets back to their owners. Scientists today are also experimenting with genes of animals. An example of this can be seen, in China where scientists claimed that gene editing was used to produce customized dogs with double muscles. Similarly, many animals have been injected with genes that allow them to glow in the dark, just for selfish reasons. It is evident that modern science is being used arrogantly by mankind without realising the fact that these interventions can affect the ecosystems. Therefore, modern science has made people more arrogant.

In conclusion, though science has made us aware of the limited knowledge about the universe, modern science poses serious threats to people’s humility. Today, people are becoming extremely arrogant and playing god in many instances. If the behaviour is not reigned in then the effects can be catastrophic and disastrous.

Are machines making humans obsolete?

In the future, it is expected that most of the jobs held by humans today will be replaced by automated technologies like robots and AI. However, this contention has been argued by those who believe that automation has a long way to go in replacing humans. This is because the automated machinery lacks human functions like cognition and critical thinking skills. While some areas of work in the future will completely be dominated by machines, humans that are not technologically savvy would be obsolete.

The belief that humans will be made obsolete by machines stems from the fact that today many jobs are being automated. This includes jobs in factories where humans have been replaced by automated machinery on assembly lines. Similarly, customer service and sales jobs today are increasingly being automated by the means of chatbots, automated emails and calls. Automated machinery can do these tasks better than humans and with little human errors. We have to acknowledge that only jobs that are repetitive and require a significant amount of data to make quick decisions would replace humans, but robots and automated systems would still require technicians and engineers to maintain these systems. Hence the aspect of obsolences is a selective one.

It can also be contended that instead of making humans obsolete, the machines can be instrumental in helping humans to do tasks easily and efficiently. Machines instead of replacing humans can work alongside them. An example of this can be drones being used for surveillance by the US Army or bomb disposal robots that can analyse suspicious areas or devices without endangering the lives of people. It can be said that machines can be very helpful in assisting humans in other areas like health care, transportation and agriculture. However, they cannot make humans obsolete because people are required to operate these machines.

Machines cannot replace humans in specialist jobs which require cognitive skills and empathy. Many companies today and even in the future would need specialists like engineers, doctors, teachers and nannies. Teachers and nurses would still be needed in education and healthcare systems because unlike machines they can better understand human emotions. Similarly, we might need human psychologists and therapists because they can empathise better with people than any emotional recognition system in the future. The point is that there are many nuances of human relationships that cannot be grasped by machines easily. Thus, machines need humans in the future, and cannot make them completely obsolete.

Lastly, Robots cannot absolutely replace humans in economic and political roles. In many cases where machines are seen replacing economic functions like accounting and financial assistants, they cannot completely take over these roles. Even in political scenarios, machines cannot take up political roles. For instance, though machines are being used in politics they cannot completely replace humans because governments need to work for the welfare of its citizens. It is also important to note that politicians are responsible for coming up with economic plans and policies and play a vital role in a country’s economy. Thus, machines cannot make humans obsolete in fields of politics or economics.

In conclusion, machines can work alongside humans but cannot make them completely obsolete. Though it is true that some technical aspects of the jobs can be taken over by robots, it cannot replace all job roles. As long as humans have their capacity to think and rationalise, they can never become obsolete.