Science: Servant or master?*

Abstract

The so-called omnipotence of modern science and technology rests on fundamental convictions and views regarding their basic nature. The mythical claims as to the demonic or magical role played by science in society are strengthened on the one hand by the scientists, and on the other hand they Find an easy access to a "lay" public. I he belief in the omnipotence of science leads to a belief in progress which, in the context of the modern science and technology which have been “freed of values”, is endowed with the Role of saviour in a world devoid of mysticism. For the practice of academic and intellectual stewardship in the allocation of a legitimate but limited role to science, one of the primary pre-requisites is the demythologizing of the over-extended expectations cherished of science as an idol of progress.