Reevaluating the Value of Science and Technology Ethics Education in Contemporary Higher Education

The accelerating evolution of scientific and industrial revolutions presents substantial benefits, significant uncertainties, and formidable ethical challenges to global society. This study investigates trends and characteristics in the pedagogy of science and technology ethics, aiming to highlight the critical role of such education in higher education during this new era. By employing bibliometric analysis, this study examines a corpus of 422 publications, focusing on themes such as scientific and technological innovation, ethical norms in science and technology, the development of a science and technology powerhouse, ethics education in science and technology, and the concept of “technology for good.” As the central hub where education, scientific progress, and talent cultivation converge, universities bear the vital responsibility of shaping the next generation. Enhancing science and technology ethics education in these institutions is crucial for constructing a robust educational foundation and achieving self-reliance in advanced scientific and technological capabilities. In response to the ethical challenges and risks posed by rapid technological advancement, the systematic integration of science and technology ethics education within higher education in this new era represents a crucial, scientifically informed, and sustainable transformative endeavor. This initiative is essential for fostering a responsible and ethically conscious technological perspective among students.