NSMF4.1 Science influences society through its knowledge and world view. Scientific knowledge and the procedures used by scientists influence the way many individuals in society think about themselves, others and the environment. The effect of science on society is neither entirely beneficial nor entirely detrimental. Some changes are good, some are bad, and some are neither good nor bad. Pollution is a change in the environment that can influence the health, survival, or activities of organisms, including humans.
Some environmental changes occur slowly, and others occur rapidly.
Students should understand the different consequences of changing environments in small increments over long periods as compared with changing environments in large increments over short periods. It is helpful to try to determine in advance how ideas and inventions will affect other people. Science and technology have greatly improved food quality and quantity, transportation, health, sanitation, and communication. These benefits of science and technology are not available to all of the people in the world. 4GHNS1.2 Men and women have made a variety of contributions throughout the history of science and technology.