In this blog post, using the sci-fi film ‘Gattaca’ as a starting point, I’ll discuss the causes of discrimination stemming from scientific and technological advancements and what we need to prepare for. Science Fiction and Gattaca: How Discrimination Is Portrayed The science fiction genre captivates many people by presenting visions of the future through its unique imagination...
Does “Gattaca” Ask Whether Human Life Is Determined by Genetics?
In this blog post, I will examine the debate over genetic engineering and “designer humans” through the movie “Gattaca,” and summarize the arguments for and against, along with critiques of each. The Movie “Gattaca” and Lives Defined by Genetics The movie “Gattaca” depicts a society where advances in science, technology, and biotechnology allow for the manipulation of genetic information...
What Do “Valuable Engineering” and “Responsible Engineers” Mean?
In this blog post, we will examine the growing importance of decision-making alongside advancements in science and technology, as well as the ethical responsibilities of engineers, through case studies and theory. Advances in Science and Technology and the Importance of Decision-Making Humanity has grown alongside the development of science and technology, from the creation of tools in...
You, Who Have Everything—Are You Unhappy?
In this blog post, I’ll explore whether humanity would truly become happier if it achieved eternal life through science and technology, drawing on various philosophical perspectives and personal experiences. The Possibility of Eternal Life — The Emergence of Science and Technology and Its Feasibility Looking back at human history, the longing for eternal life has existed for a very long...
Is an era of “smart” home appliances upon us?
In this blog post, I’ll summarize how smart grids and energy storage systems (ESS) will transform home appliances and the power system. Smart Grids: A Paradigm Shift in the Power Grid Since the 1990s, the rapid advancement of computers and the Internet has brought about major changes across all industries. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)—a management strategy for the integrated...
Birds of a Feather: How Does the “Birds of a Feather” Effect Impact Our Society?
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the pros and cons of the “birds of a feather” phenomenon in terms of individual choices and social outcomes. How to Spot “Birds of a Feather” in Everyday Life Think back to the plots of the superhero movies you loved as a child. Typically, the hero and the villains are pitted against each other; the villains gather like-minded individuals to...
Find the Fastest Path! What Is Dijkstra’s Algorithm?
In this blog post, we’ll explain the principles, examples, and real-world applications of Dijkstra’s algorithm in an easy-to-understand way. Introduction Think back to the fairy tale “Hansel and Gretel.” When their stepmother abandoned the children in the forest, their first attempt—dropping pebbles to mark their path—failed, and their second attempt—leaving breadcrumbs—didn’t end in...
A Heating Planet: Is It Time to Cool Down?
In this blog post, I’ll explain in simple terms the scope of resource processing engineering and why waste and carbon dioxide reduction technologies are so important. The Department of Energy and Resource Engineering: Expectations vs. Reality When people hear the term “Department of Energy and Resource Engineering,” many immediately think of “renewable energy.” Many freshmen, myself...
What is the difference between a pressurized water reactor and a boiling water reactor?
In this blog post, we’ll examine the safety of South Korea’s nuclear power plants by comparing the principles and pros and cons of pressurized water reactors and boiling water reactors. Background and Purpose of This Article Nuclear power plants, commonly referred to as “nuclear plants,” have been the subject of public interest and concern for several years. In particular, following the...
The Controversy Over Pressurized Water Reactors and the Extension of the Kori Nuclear Power Plant’s Operating Life: How Should We View It?
In this blog post, we’ll examine the principles and safety of pressurized water reactors, as well as the key issues surrounding the controversy over the extension of Unit 1 of the Kori Nuclear Power Plant’s operating life. Nuclear Power and the Image of Fear in South Korea Nuclear power accounts for about 33% of South Korea’s electricity production and has played a major role in industrial...