Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[jasonlulu_2000]

A recent study, while showing a generally positive attitude toward science, also suggests a widespread worry that it may be �running out of control�. This idea is dangerous.
Science can be a force for evil as well as for good. Its applications can be channeled either way, depending on our decisions. The decisions we make, personally or collectively, will determine the outcomes of science. But here is a real danger. Science is advancing so fast is so strongly influenced by businesses that we are likely to believe whatever decisions we come to will make little difference. And, rather than fighting for the best possible policies, we may step back and do nothing.
Some people go even further. They say that despite the moral and legal objections , whatever is scientifically possible will be done ��somewhere, sometime. They believe that science will get out of control in the end. This belief is dangerous too, because it a fuels sense of hopelessness and discourages them from making efforts to build a safer world.
In our interconnected world, the lack of agreement in and of the world of science can lead to the failure to control the use of science. Without a common understanding, the challenges of �controlling� science in this century will be really tough. Take human cloning for example. Despite the general agreement among scientists on its possible huge impact on traditional moral values, some countries still go ahead with the research and development of its related techniques. The outcomes are hard to predict.
Therefore, discussions on how science is applied should be extended far beyond scientific societies. Only through the united efforts of people with hope, can we be fully safe against the misuse of science and can science best serve mankind in the future.

What is the main idea of the passage?

B. The development of science mostly lies in people�s attitudes.
C. Mankind can largely take control of science with their efforts.

Which of the two answers is right? Can you tell me WHY?

Thanks

[peterteacher]

I'd go 'B'.

Mostly because the piece seemed to be pointing out how uncertain it is that science can be controlled. 'The outcomes are hard to predict' really supports the feeling that mankind is having trouble controlling science.

However, several attitudes towards science are listed in the paragraphs and B is the main idea of the passage as a whole.

Anyone who wants to argue in favour of C, be my guest
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[jasonlulu_2000]

Thank you