Monday, March 25, 2013

Blog #2 - Popular Science: Yay or Nay?

Let's face it. Science and technology is advancing faster than the average person can keep up with. We will probably end up being like some of our older generation parents who seem to ask endless questions how to use their new phone, computer, etc. With new improvements every day, I wouldn't blame you. But that's not always a bad thing, is it?

Nowadays, there are a lot of shows on television that portray all forms of modern science. Some of the forensic science equipment used in shows such as CSI are not real but the concept never cease to amaze us. Many great inventions begin with a concept. Many in which help us progress in scientific fields. We may not be able to name all the new methods of solving a crime, medicines that cures illness, or even job careers that seem to branch off from existing ones. But we are sure glad we have it.

As much as shows such as Numb3rs, The Big Bang Theory, and more emphasize the uses and comedic perspectives of science. Many people still seem to question the authenticity of it because, after all, it is just a show. Popular shows revolved around science can be helpful to build a positive image in that field but many times, these shows are aiming for ratings as well. Sometimes, the drama is what makes the viewer continue to watch these shows and not necessarily "absorbing" the science behind it.

In the end, popular science can help build intrigue whether we believe it or not. The whole process of studying science is to first, observe and question. By watching shows like these, viewers are already on their way. Hopefully many others agree with this perspective and do not misconstrue the support for television shows. I do not believe all shows such as Breaking Bad is the best show to follow by example, but it does give a different tone to a field many people view as "boring".

Ruling: Yay! Popular Science!



Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Blog #1 - Science V. Humanities


The idea of science vs humanities remind me of the debate between nature vs nurture. I never believed it was all nature or all nurture but a combination of both; the same goes with science and humanities. Personally I see the concept of science/ technology as a positive to humanity. Science/ technology has been a way to create a better way of living for society versus our primitive ways prior. However, most people in the US seem to fall between both the positive and negative aspects on Science/Technology. 

The reasoning for this because of certain technology that is frowned up by citizens of the US. One example would be militia guns such as assault rifles, artillery, and etc. These machinery throughout centuries have become more powerful and more dangerous, but with this technology many people have sought it out as doing more damage than good. 

There are other people though that think highly of science/technology because of the different medicines and cures we were able to create. I would hope that majority of people today would accept science as a way of understanding the world but needless to say, many people are too ignorant to see it. Many people are still stuck in the facade that religion tops science.   


Monday, March 11, 2013

Welcome!


Hello there,

My name is Mara Chan. I am hoping to pursue a career related to the study of psychology, but I am not exactly sure which sub-field I'd like to go into. For now, finishing this semester and trying to transfer into a 4 year college by the Fall term would be my short term goal. I am in my last term at La Guardia, so I am feeling the sophomore version of the "senioritis" hit me. But no worries, I'm a team player and I'm more than willing to pull through and attempt to ace this semester before June comes.

This is actually a blog for my LIB200 course that covers the topics of Science, Technology, and Humanism. In time, you will get a chance to know more of the specific topics we cover through the class and the world modern technology has provided for us. You will get the chance to be a complete grammar nazi on my page while commenting on any agreements/disagreements you may have with my opinions. Constructive criticism are welcome, inappropriate censure is not.

Hope you're having a good day. Thanks for visiting!

Mara C.