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贈収賄、AI、そして芸術:複雑に絡み合う現代社会の課題」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The recent bribery scandal involving prominent politician Mr. Tanaka has sparked intense public debate, extending far beyond the immediate political ramifications. The case highlights not only the ethical failings of individuals but also the broader systemic issues that allow such corruption to flourish. Furthermore, the investigation revealed an unexpected link to the burgeoning field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Tanaka’s campaign allegedly used sophisticated AI algorithms to manipulate public opinion through targeted advertising, blurring the line between legitimate political discourse and covert influence operations. This incident raises critical questions regarding the ethical implications of AI development and deployment. The scandal also intersected with the world of art. A renowned contemporary artist, Ms. Sato, had created a series of installations that were unexpectedly implicated in the bribery case. While seemingly unrelated at first glance, it transpired that Tanaka used the sales of Sato’s art as a conduit for bribes, laundering money through seemingly legitimate art transactions. This revelation forces a re-evaluation of the role of art in society, particularly its potential vulnerability to exploitation in corrupt practices. Sato herself maintains her innocence, claiming she was unaware of the illegal activities. The ambiguous nature of art interpretation and the subjective nature of artistic value make determining her culpability a complex task. Experts debate whether this is a case of naivete, willful ignorance, or a more sinister involvement. Meanwhile, the AI algorithms used in Tanaka's campaign continue to be analyzed, raising profound questions about accountability and regulation in the age of advanced technology. The intersection of these seemingly disparate fields – politics, AI, and art – exemplifies the interconnectedness of modern challenges and the blurred lines between seemingly distinct domains.

1. According to the passage, what is the unexpected link between the bribery scandal and AI?

2. What is the central issue concerning Ms. Sato's involvement in the scandal?

3. What is the overarching theme explored in the passage?

4. Which of the following best describes the tone of the passage?