ENGLISH MEBY

文化政策、宇宙旅行倫理、そしてプラトンの洞窟:交錯する三つの視座」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The intersection of cultural policy, space tourism ethics, and Platonic philosophy presents a fascinating, if complex, area of inquiry. Consider, first, the role of cultural policy in shaping theatrical productions. Governments often subsidize the arts, aiming to foster creativity and preserve national heritage. However, this support can inadvertently lead to artistic compromise, a subtle pressure to conform to prevailing tastes or political agendas. This tension mirrors the ethical dilemmas inherent in space tourism. The burgeoning industry of space travel promises breathtaking experiences for the wealthy elite, offering a glimpse into the cosmos previously reserved for astronauts. Yet, the environmental impact of such ventures, the potential for commercial exploitation, and the profound philosophical implications of human expansion beyond Earth raise critical questions. Is the pursuit of individual pleasure justifiable when it carries significant environmental costs and exacerbates existing inequalities? This echoes Plato's allegory of the cave, where individuals chained in darkness mistake shadows for reality. In Plato's allegory, the escape from the cave represents the arduous journey towards enlightenment, a shedding of illusion and a pursuit of truth. Similarly, the experience of space travel, for those fortunate enough to embark on it, might offer a profound shift in perspective, a glimpse of the Earth's fragility and the interconnectedness of all life. But can this individual enlightenment justify the potentially destructive consequences of space tourism on a broader scale? Furthermore, the accessibility – or rather the profound lack thereof – of this transformative experience reinforces existing societal inequalities, mirroring the uneven distribution of opportunity and knowledge within Plato's cave. The comparison between subsidized theatre and space tourism reveals a fundamental tension between individual fulfillment and collective responsibility. Cultural policy, like the ethical framework governing space exploration, must grapple with this tension. Just as the state seeks to balance artistic expression with societal needs, so too must space tourism navigate between the allure of personal adventure and the preservation of our planet and the principles of equitable access. The shadows on the wall of Plato's cave, representing the illusions of our limited perspectives, serve as a potent reminder of the importance of critical reflection and responsible action in both artistic expression and the exploration of the cosmos.

1. According to the passage, what is a significant ethical concern regarding space tourism?

2. How does the passage relate Plato's allegory of the cave to space tourism?

3. What is the central tension explored in the passage?

4. The author's tone in the passage can best be described as: