0.2 Scientific applications and issues

Question 1

Give an example of where a scientific development has had a useful application.

Answer 1

E.g. the discovery of penicillin’s ability to kill bacteria, resulted in the purification of penicilin for use an antibiotic to treat bacterial infections

Question 2

Give an example of a political issue created by science.

Answer 2

Despite evidence for climate change, internationally governments may ignore the findings or be slow to develop policies to respond to climate change - e.g. because it may be costly or it may not be popular with voters

Question 3

Give an example of an economic issue created by science.

Answer 3

Society may not be able to afford what scientists recommend (e.g. investing in green energy) unless they reduce spending in another area

Question 4

Give an example of a social issue created by science.

Answer 4

Interventions based on scientific evidence may not be acceptable to society, e.g. banning alcohol or taxing junk food

Question 5

Give an example of an environmental issue created by science.

Answer 5

Genetic modification of crops may help humans produce more food, but they may also harm the environment or the local ecosystem

Question 6

Give an example of a personal issue created by science.

Answer 6

A decision may affect certain individuals, e.g. someone may be happy to support green energy, but also object to a wind farm being build next to their home.