The 20th century was the greatest century in human history thanks to the tremendous progress made in science and technology. The advancement of science and technology has given us a higher living standard, and the information-technology revolution has dramatically expanded our intellectual playing field. Concerns are emerging, however, that science and technology are harming the Earth and could even threaten the very existence of mankind.
The Sept. 11 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon brought to light the existence of a new threat and raised the need for new security measures. We are surrounded by scientifically and technologically advanced facilities, and if they are misused, they can become terrible weapons in the hands of criminals.
The 20th century was one of growth and war. Two world wars were fought in the first half of the 20th century, and the Cold War dominated the second. Remarkable technological advancements took place, leading to the production of -- and, unfortunately, the use of -- nuclear, biological and chemical weapons capable of wiping out mankind.