V.V. Raman

In the following viewpoint, V.V. Raman, professor emeritus of physics at the Rochester Institute of Technology, describes the many scientific and technological breakthroughs of the twentieth century. While some argue that technological advances have lessened personal relations and community, Raman contends that science and technology have created avenues of communication and knowledge previously considered unattainable. He and others maintain that technology has improved access to information, medicine, and sanitation and continues to be an enormous benefit to society.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What three infectious diseases does the author claim medicine has learned to combat"

2. According to the author, why is harnessing nuclear fusion safer than tapping the electronic nucleus"

3. What is the “heartbeat” of today’s computers, according to the author"

The twentieth century will be remembered for consciousness-raising and...