ENGLISH MEBY

漫画、医療、資本主義:葛藤の構図」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The popular manga series "Medical Mayhem" depicts a world where advanced medical technology is tightly controlled by a handful of powerful corporations. Dr. Aris Thorne, the protagonist, is a brilliant but idealistic surgeon who struggles against this system. He witnesses firsthand the devastating consequences of prioritizing profit over patient care, as life-saving treatments become inaccessible to the majority due to exorbitant costs. The manga contrasts Aris's unwavering commitment to ethical medical practice with the ruthless pursuit of profit by the corporations. These corporations, often portrayed as faceless entities with little regard for human life, employ sophisticated marketing strategies to sell their products, even if they are of questionable efficacy. They lobby government officials to shape healthcare policy in their favor, further entrenching their control over the system. Aris faces constant pressure from the corporations, ranging from subtle threats to overt sabotage, as he fights for equitable access to healthcare. The story explores the complex ethical dilemmas that arise at the intersection of medicine and capitalism. It questions the inherent tensions between the altruistic goals of medicine and the profit motives of corporations. Furthermore, it highlights the vulnerability of patients caught in the crossfire between these two forces. The manga’s portrayal of a dystopian future serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to reflect on the potential downsides of unbridled capitalism in the healthcare sector and the importance of robust regulatory mechanisms to protect the public good. However, the manga isn’t simply a condemnation of capitalism. It acknowledges the role of market forces in driving innovation and investment in medical research. The tension lies not in rejecting capitalism outright, but in seeking a balance between its benefits and the need for ethical considerations. Aris's own struggle represents this tension, as he navigates the complexities of the system while striving to remain true to his principles.

1. What is the central conflict depicted in "Medical Mayhem"?

2. According to the passage, how do the corporations in "Medical Mayhem" maintain their control?

3. What is the manga's overall message regarding capitalism and healthcare?

4. The portrayal of a dystopian future in "Medical Mayhem" serves primarily as: