The Role of Science in Shaping Society

This lecture discusses the profound impact of science and technology on society, particularly focusing on the concept of progress. It begins with an exploration of how science alters the material world and influences societal ideas and myths. The instructor examines the emergence of the idea of progress as a dominant ideology in the 19th century, linking it to the development of scientific thought and technological advancements. The lecture highlights key figures and movements, such as the Saint-Simonians, who advocated for the industrial class's role in shaping society. The discussion extends to the establishment of public institutions and exhibitions that aimed to educate the masses about scientific advancements. The instructor emphasizes the dual nature of progress, intertwining material and spiritual dimensions, and concludes by reflecting on the lasting implications of these ideas in contemporary society.