ENGLISH MEBY

海洋汚染、ミュージカル、医療費透明化:三つの視点を繋ぐ挑戦」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The seemingly disparate fields of marine pollution, musical theatre, and healthcare transparency may appear unconnected, yet they share a common thread: the pursuit of a more just and sustainable world. Consider the devastating impact of plastic waste on ocean ecosystems. The sheer volume of discarded plastics, choking coral reefs and harming marine life, demands urgent action. This ecological crisis necessitates global cooperation and individual responsibility, mirroring the collaborative spirit required to produce a successful musical theatre production. The creation of a musical, from initial concept to final performance, involves numerous individuals with diverse skills. Composers, lyricists, choreographers, set designers, and actors must work together harmoniously, overcoming creative differences and technical challenges to realize a shared artistic vision. This intricate process of collaboration and compromise directly parallels the efforts needed to address the complex issue of marine pollution, requiring the cooperation of governments, industries, and individuals. Meanwhile, the lack of transparency in healthcare costs contributes to economic inequality and hinders access to quality care. Patients often lack clear understanding of pricing structures, leading to unexpected financial burdens. This lack of clarity is akin to the hidden environmental costs associated with plastic production and disposal – costs often ignored until their consequences become unavoidable. Demands for greater healthcare transparency are gaining traction, mirroring the growing awareness of the environmental costs associated with our consumption habits. Just as the production of a musical depends on meticulous budgeting and efficient resource management, sustainable solutions to environmental problems demand carefully planned strategies and conscious consumerism. These three areas—marine pollution, musical theatre, and healthcare transparency—demonstrate how seemingly disparate issues share underlying principles of collaboration, transparency, and responsible resource management. Addressing each requires a multifaceted approach that values human ingenuity, collaboration, and a commitment to a more equitable future. Ultimately, the success of one endeavor can inform and inspire progress in the others.

1. What is the central theme connecting the three seemingly disparate fields discussed in the passage?

2. The analogy between creating a musical and addressing marine pollution highlights which aspect?

3. The passage suggests that the lack of transparency in healthcare costs is similar to:

4. What is the author's overall message regarding the three discussed fields?