INTRODUCTION

Science and Technology strongly influence our lives since through these we are able to control
and manipulate the environment to a great extent. Consequently, science and technology have also
become major cultural determinants (Susskind 1993)—as important as philosophy, religion, social
organizations, or political systems in shaping human lives. Since we have become so dependent on
science and technology, it is expedient that you acquire a holistic perspective on these two influences in
particular, lest you find yourself worshipping science and technology, giving these the status of gods or
maybe using these as the only measures of what is good, or true, or beautiful…

HOLISTIC LEARNING - holistic education seeks to help students grow and develop in all
dimensions: emotional, psychological, creative, social, imaginative, physical, intuitive, and
spiritual as well as intellectual. (www.academia.edu/8448987/HOLISTIC_LEARNING_THEORY)

The various subjects in this program aim to give a more holistic perspective of man by studying
him in several dimensions and aspects, and not just as a human body, or solely as a human mind
(psychology), or merely as a political animal, or only a social being, or simply as a purely economic
player. This course hopes to impart to you a balanced view of man and in so doing, make you more truly
human.

Humanities simply guide our priorities by educating us on the philosophical principles that
essentially remind us that the human person—the concrete, really existing individual—is of primary
importance since he is or should be the immediate and ultimate object of efforts to make life better.
The sciences, on the other hand, when based on philosophical principles that respect the true nature of
man, lead to true development of man and society. This course will enable you to see the unity and
continuity of all human knowledge and, in the long run, develop a more holistic view of life.

STS is humanized science education; and like any other general education course, it is a good
channel for communicating values. These values come from a deep understanding of human nature and
the dignity of the human being, and these values will be the foundation of the principles that will guide
the progress in science and technology.

STS aims to remind you that because you have been given powers to shape the world, you have
great responsibilities to fulfil in society. This course also helps you realize that the benefits we presently
enjoy are the contributions of other people who have shared their knowledge and skills with the rest of
the world. And not only must that, but that eventually, you, too, give your contribution to society.

This course shall prepare you to face up to this responsibility by equipping you with a holistic
perspective that includes sound human values.

Source: (RIMSTS: Really Important Matters for Students to Study, 2008 Edition. By: Del Rosario, Maria Nora B., MS)