Critical Thinking blog #8: Final Course Reflection- Thinking about science and the humanities.

As we finish the semester, my thinking about science and humanities has changed. Especially, because I am better informed about these "two cultures" that are different from each other, yet they are connected in various ways. Furthermore, I have realized that science and technology are the future of our world, as they are fields that are rapidly advancing. After taking this course, I noticed the many connections between the humanities and sciences, both disciplines are essential to our advancement as a species and as a society. The humanities place an emphasis on human thinking and achievements while Science is the means by which we can thrive as humans and continue to make progress. It was interesting to learn about Darwinism, Global warming, techno-romanticism, e-waste, human cloning, robots, and the first World’s fair. I think my favorite topic was our discussion on the long-term effects of new scientific breakthroughs such as bioengineering, as well as Kurzweil’s approach on nanotechnology and robotics.

Overall, I was able to get a profound understanding on the promises and perils of science and technology. Moreover, how it is important that as a society we get more involved and become more aware and educated in terms of the governmental policies in place that influence the scientific research in today’s world. 

Scientist's Life and Work: Rosalind Franklin

In my opinion, one of the most notable scientists in history is Rosalind Franklin. Her story caught my attention for various reasons, not only because she was the woman who made significant discoveries pertaining the understanding of the DNA structure, but also because she was not credited for her contributions in the field of Science. Rosalind was a tenacious, dedicated, and intellectual woman; many people describe her as being a genius who was passionate and committed to her work. Despite the many obstacles, she faced, since she was female in a male dominated field she was able to remain true to herself and remain consistent and disciplined with her work. After reading her story, I was inspired by her because I am sure it must have been difficult for her endure constant discrimination in her workplace and yet be able to remain ethical and professional. Especially after Watson and Crick received credit for their model, which was her stolen work. It demonstrates that she was a serious researcher, as she believed in proving theories with empirical evidence, maybe that is why she did not publish her findings before Watson and Crick had the opportunity to steal her work. Moreover, her story is moving because she dedicated her life to her work and research, which was arduous and demanding, to the extent that it has been said that her extensive exposure to x-rays during her research contributed to her cancer and unfortunate death. Rosalind Franklin did deserve the Nobel Prize and many other prizes of the same category because her work and discoveries were extraordinary and fantastic. It would be just if she were to be recognized for her work and receive a prize even after her death, because if it had not been for her many advances in bioengineering, genetics, and medicine would not have been made. Her story is a story of scientific espionage, which gives us a sense of suspense as well as a more profound insight on the complexity of human nature.