Lecture 1

Science & Technology in Law

Science and Technology (S&T) are critical inputs for socio-economic development. In 20th century, multidisciplinary aspects of S&T have made remarkable improvements in quality of life in both developed and developing countries. The ability to access, comprehend, select, adapt, and use scientific and technological knowledge is increasingly an important determinant of material well-being and quality of life. S&T plays pivotal role in improving social conditions of a society so as the knowledge of law. Because ultimately crafting policies, rules, regulations and establishing institutions by legislative bodies are for the welfare of a society. In context of various social aspects knowledge of S&T is equally important for law students and professionals. It is ideal for students pursuing careers in law, public policy or management, as well as for social scientists, engineers and others.

Definition of Science:
"The study of nature and natural phenomena" (Encyclopaedia of S&T)         

• Science is the systematic way of acquiring knowledge through observation and experimentation.

Definition of Technology:
"Systematic knowledge and action, usually of industrial processes but applicable to any recurrent activity" (Encyclopaedia of S&T)

• 
  
• Technology is the application of Science.

Why S&T is part of Law Curriculum?

Science and Technology (S&T) are critical inputs for socio-economic development. In 20th century, multidisciplinary aspects of S&T have made remarkable improvements in quality of life in both developed and developing countries. The ability to access, comprehend, select, adapt, and use scientific and technological knowledge is increasingly an important determinant of material well-being and quality of life. S&T plays pivotal role in improving social conditions of a society so as the knowledge of law. Because ultimately crafting policies, rules, regulations and establishing institutions by legislative bodies are for the welfare of a society. In context of various social aspects knowledge of S&T is equally important for law students/professionals. It is ideal for students pursuing careers in law, public policy or management, as well as for scientists, engineers and others.


History of S&T and Society.

Science as we know it today is a recent creation. It was created during the scientific revolution which began with the Copernicus (1473-1543) which ended to Newton (1642-1727). Throughout 17th century and most of the 18th century science was practiced by amateurs on their own expenses. The first ever scientific institution was the Royal Society of London established in 1662. A similar Institution was founded in Paris in 1666 namely the Academie Royale des Sciences. Dissenting academies were found in Britain in the 18th century. Appreciation for professionalization of science and engineering began in Britain in response to a expected loss of competitiveness to France, Germany, and USA. In all other courtiers, however, institutionalization was a pre-condition for industrialization. French revolution in 1789 changed the scenario for better in France.  In such conditions some of the renowned institutions were established. Namely Ecole Polytechnique, British Association of Advancement of Science (BAAS), University College London in 1826, MIT was established in 1861 etc.

During World War I (1914-1918) & II (1939-1945) several notable inventions took place in which penicillin, dynamo powered torch, Radar, computer Z3 and Mark I computer are worth mentioning.

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