ENGLISH MEBY

火山噴火、ゲーム産業、そして人口動態:複雑に絡み合う現代社会の諸相」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, a catastrophic event that buried Pompeii and Herculaneum, serves as a stark reminder of nature's power. However, the impact of natural disasters extends far beyond immediate devastation. Consider the interplay between volcanic activity, the video game industry, and population data. Recent volcanic eruptions in Iceland, for instance, disrupted air travel globally, affecting not only tourism but also the intricate supply chains of various industries, including the production of video game consoles and components. The video game industry, a multi-billion dollar sector characterized by rapid technological advancements and a globalized workforce, is highly susceptible to disruptions. Delays in the delivery of crucial components, resulting from natural disasters or geopolitical instability, can translate into significant financial losses and missed deadlines. Moreover, the concentration of game development studios in specific geographic locations, often in areas with desirable climates or readily available talent pools, increases their vulnerability to localized natural hazards. Population data, crucial for disaster preparedness and resource allocation, can be profoundly affected by volcanic eruptions. The displacement of populations following an eruption necessitates comprehensive data collection and analysis to ensure efficient distribution of aid and long-term recovery planning. This includes assessing the number of people affected, their immediate needs (shelter, food, medical care), and their longer-term requirements for housing, employment, and social services. Inaccuracies or delays in gathering and analyzing this data can hinder relief efforts and negatively impact the lives of affected communities. Furthermore, the long-term effects of volcanic activity on agricultural land can lead to population shifts, both internally within a country and internationally, impacting demographic patterns for decades to come. The complex interrelationships between these seemingly disparate factors highlight the interconnectedness of modern society. Understanding these connections is vital for effective disaster management, robust economic planning, and sustainable development. The challenge lies in integrating diverse data sets – geological, economic, demographic – to create a comprehensive understanding of risks and vulnerabilities, enabling more effective preventative measures and response strategies.

1. According to the passage, how does a volcanic eruption affect the video game industry?

2. What is the significance of population data in the context of volcanic eruptions?

3. What is the main idea of the passage?

4. Which of the following is NOT explicitly mentioned as a consequence of volcanic eruptions in the passage?