Task+and+Procedures

Project Guidelines

// Each member of your group will select a different set of articles/interviews to listen to, view, and or read. You will then become your group's "resident expert" on the controversial issues surrounding fossil fuel extraction, genetic engineering in agriculture, gerontology, and the creation of synthetic life. After carefully considering the ideas presented in your respective source materials, you will each develop a position concerning whether or not science and technology can go, or has already gone, too far. //

// In the field of economics, experts perform a cost-benefit analysis prior to implementing new ideas. In the most basic terms economists weigh the potential benefits gained by new actions against the potential costs involved. For example, say I want to buy a new car; I might perform the following cost-benefit analysis: What are the benefits: reliable sorce of transportation, more efficient engine, and lower fuel costs. These are indeed excellent benefits, but what are the costs? I must take on increased debt via a car loan; my insurance premium will increase; I will have to give up other luxuries like cable, internet, eating out with friends; I will have to consider getting a second job. Do the costs outweigh the benefits in this situation? Perhaps waiting another year or two would be more advantageous, etc. //

// Granted, this is a rather insignificant scenario, but you get the point. For this assignment you must weigh the benefits involved in implementing these new technologies or in embarking on new scientific discoveries against the costs to humanity and the environment. Consider whether theological or philosophical concerns are appropriate to take into account in your debate. You will then develop a well reasoned position based on the information you have been provided. Next, you will meet in your group discussion pages to debate this issue with your team members in order to develop a group position considering the essential questions: Do the ends justify the means? Can we go so far in developing new technologies that we may actually begin to lose our humanity while we are attempting to improve the human condition? //

// Use the AP Group links on the sidebar to access your team pages where you will conduct your online debates, develop your team position concerning the essential question, and complete your final project evaluations. //