Critically examine the roles of science and technology in social change. What is your opinion on their increasing trend in ‘online’ education an teaching?. (UPSC CSE Mains 2024 - Sociology, Paper 1)
Science and technology have been fundamental catalysts of social change, reshaping societies through advancements in knowledge and tools.
Karl Marx: Emphasized technological innovation as a driver of changes in the economic base, influencing social structures.
Max Weber: Highlighted rationalization due to scientific progress, leading to bureaucratic systems.
Positive Impacts:
• Enhanced efficiency, connectivity, and access to information
• Enablement of social movements (e.g., social media’s role in the Arab Spring)
• Industrial Revolution and Information Age as transformative periods
Criticisms and Challenges:
• Technological determinism: Overemphasis on technology’s role in shaping society
• Digital divide: Exacerbation of existing inequalities
• Privacy concerns: Issues related to surveillance technologies
Online Education Trend:
Benefits:
• Flexibility and wider reach
• Democratization of learning opportunities
• Access to quality education for remote learners
Challenges:
• Disparities due to unequal access to technology
• Potential reduction in social interaction
• Questions about the quality of online pedagogy
While science and technology drive significant social change, addressing associated challenges is crucial to fully harness their benefits.
Next
previous
Latest News
General Studies