The year is 2047. A groundbreaking musical, "Harvest Moon," depicting the global food crisis and the struggle for intellectual property rights surrounding genetically modified (GM) crops, is sweeping the world. The musical’s soaring melodies and poignant narrative explore the ethical dilemmas faced by farmers in developing nations, forced to choose between utilizing patented GM seeds promising higher yields and preserving their traditional, albeit less productive, farming methods. The plot centers around a young, idealistic farmer, Anya, who champions sustainable agriculture and fights against the powerful AgriCorp corporation, a multinational giant controlling the majority of the world’s GM seed supply. AgriCorp, portrayed as a ruthless, profit-driven entity, is shown aggressively enforcing its patents, often leading to devastating consequences for small-scale farmers unable to afford the licensing fees. The musical cleverly integrates real-world debates around intellectual property rights, highlighting the tension between incentivizing innovation through patent protection and ensuring access to food for all. The show’s immense popularity sparked a renewed global debate about food security and the role of intellectual property in addressing the challenges of climate change and population growth. Governments worldwide are grappling with the complex implications of AgriCorp’s dominance, with some advocating for stricter regulations on GM seed patents, while others champion the company's contribution to increased food production. Furthermore, the musical’s creative use of visual effects and stage design impressively brought to life the stark contrast between the prosperity of AgriCorp and the widespread poverty experienced by those relying on traditional farming practices. However, "Harvest Moon" is not without its critics. Some accuse the musical of oversimplifying the complexities of the global food system and unfairly demonizing AgriCorp. Others argue that the musical’s focus on the ethical implications of GM technology overshadows the significant advancements in agricultural productivity that GM crops have achieved. The ongoing debate surrounding the musical underscores the deeply intertwined nature of art, politics, economics, and ethics in the modern world.
1. According to the passage, what is the central conflict depicted in the musical "Harvest Moon"?
2. What is the main criticism levied against AgriCorp in the musical?
3. What is the passage's main point regarding the impact of "Harvest Moon"?
4. The passage suggests that the debate surrounding "Harvest Moon" highlights the interconnectedness of which areas?