Q5

During the roundtable discussion, one of the group discussed a topic regarding computational modeling in brain studies. This particular research hopes to give a clearer understanding on how our brain works. The group discussed various advantages and disadvantages this technology can bring to us and also gave reasons to support why the government should not restrict this research.
The supporting members of the group argued that the brain scan can provide people who cannot express themselves the ability to communicate with their family or friends. It can be used to identity suspects who are potential terrorists. The supporting members also said that government should not imposed restrictions on this technology because it will curb and limit the growth of the research. However, the opposing member of the group argued that this technology can leads to discrimination. For example, employers may use this technology to screen potential employees before employing them. This can be considered an invasion of people privacy.
I feel that this technology can is very promising. However, I feel that government should place restrictions on this technology. This technology can cause other problems if it is not carefully regulated. We have to make sure that this technology is put to the right use.
Another topic that was discussed by another group was on green chemistry. The group argued that Singapore should lead her counterparts in the region and focus on green chemistry. Green chemistry encourages the processing of products that are safer to our environment. However, the opposing team argued that Singapore should seek advices from other successful nations before venturing into this technology. I feel that green chemistry is an industry that would be successful in the future. This is because currently, there have been increasing amount of funding provided to develop alternative ways of processing and design material in a way that does not cause pollution.
The last group discussed about hybrid electric cars. Supporting members of the group argued that hybrid cars are less environmental polluting and better fuel economy than conventional petrol powered cars. Furthermore, hybrid cars tend to create much lower noise pollution. However, opponents of the group argued that these types of car are still very expensive. The general public would not be willing to spend money on this car.