1st: Science and Ethics by Alan E. Donant

Article: http://www.theosophy-nw.org/theosnw/science/sc-aed.htm

Paul’s Wheel of Reasoning:

Question at Issue: Which is more important than the other, Science or Ethics?

Purpose: To show the overemphasis on Science as well as the advancements, which lead to the lack of emphasis on Ethics. To show how both Science and Ethics are different in nature and the equilibrium is easily affected

Evidence / Data: 1) Invisible phenomena are an accepted arena of science, and the unseen 90% of the matter in the cosmos and the 90% of an iceberg below the surface suggest that the invisible is at least equal in importance to the visible

2) The Star Wars series presents two metaphors for future human potential: Luke Skywalker and his father, Darth Vader. The son emphasizes the mystical path where the forces of nature are used with a sense of service to others; the father emphasizes the path of applied technology accompanied by selfish gratification for power.

Assumptions: The fact that there is Oneness in everything we do

POV: One that believes that science is everything and uses moral jargon

Concepts: Consciousness, Oneness of science, Togetherness of science and ethics, How science and ethics affect each other differently

Implications: Science will be affected negatively by the uprising of ethical and moral judgement

Inferences: What the writer is trying to tell us is that science and technology is currently advancing quickly and that it would be harmful to humans in the long run. However at the current moment, it is rather beneficial for us humans if we do not look at it from a moral / ethical point of view. We also need to consolidate the science and technology as well as psychology and spirituality, in order to see them as one united force and then able to use that force to help the world, be it in the long term or the short term.

Summary:

Great civilizations are measured by their material progress, altruism and compassion. Science and Technology brings us benefits and harms. A sense of ethics from science as a discipline is created. There are many things we do not see. As consciousness and the understanding of phenomena are explored, consciousness and matter will be seen together.

Cause and effect is important. We must see that science and moral is one united force. Moral is essential compared to science. The human mind approaches meaning in many ways. In their lower expressions these three -- science, philosophy, and spirituality -- can all be divisive and dogmatic; in their purity of expression all three can lead toward truth and have the capacity to uncover and encourage a universal ethic. A synergy combined benefiting humanity may far exceed any one discipline alone. Science can see its role as an agent for the material betterment of society or for the far-reaching betterment of humanity and all nature.