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地球温暖化対策における心理的要因と国際協力」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The escalating global climate crisis demands immediate and concerted action. While technological advancements and policy changes are crucial, the psychological dimensions of climate change often remain underestimated. Understanding and addressing these psychological factors is essential for effective mitigation and adaptation strategies. Firstly, climate anxiety, a growing concern among individuals, particularly young people, can lead to apathy or even denial. The sheer scale of the problem can be overwhelming, fostering feelings of powerlessness and hindering engagement in climate-friendly behaviors. This emotional response is a significant barrier to collective action. Furthermore, cognitive biases, such as confirmation bias and the availability heuristic, can distort risk perception and influence decision-making concerning climate change. People tend to dismiss or downplay information that contradicts their existing beliefs, making it difficult to adopt sustainable practices. Secondly, international cooperation is paramount. The climate crisis transcends national borders, demanding global collaboration on research, technological development, and policy implementation. However, diverging national interests, political ideologies, and economic priorities can hinder the development of unified and effective solutions. Psychological factors such as nationalism, distrust of other nations, and short-term economic concerns often outweigh the long-term benefits of international cooperation. Cultural differences in risk perception and environmental values also contribute to the complexities of achieving global consensus. Addressing the psychological barriers necessitates multi-pronged approaches. Educating the public about climate change, fostering environmental literacy, and promoting positive narratives about climate action are crucial. Furthermore, international cooperation requires building trust among nations, promoting shared values, and creating frameworks that accommodate diverse interests while prioritizing long-term sustainability. Ultimately, addressing the psychological dimensions of climate change is not merely a matter of individual responsibility but also necessitates strategic interventions at both the national and international levels to facilitate effective global governance and sustainable development. The challenge lies in bridging the gap between individual anxieties and collective action through global cooperation and a deeper understanding of the human element involved.

1. According to the passage, what is a significant barrier to collective action on climate change?

2. What role do cognitive biases play in the context of climate change?

3. The passage emphasizes the importance of what for effective international cooperation on climate change?

4. What is the main argument of the passage regarding the psychological aspects of climate change?