The 21st century presents humanity with a complex web of interconnected challenges. Consider three seemingly disparate issues: gene therapy, ocean pollution, and peacebuilding. While seemingly unrelated, these fields are subtly linked through the lens of human ingenuity, resource management, and ethical considerations. Gene therapy, the modification of genes to treat or prevent disease, holds immense promise. However, it raises profound ethical questions surrounding accessibility, unintended consequences, and potential misuse. The equitable distribution of this transformative technology is crucial, ensuring that its benefits aren't confined to the wealthy, exacerbating existing health disparities. Moreover, the long-term effects of gene editing remain largely unknown, requiring rigorous monitoring and careful risk assessment. Ocean pollution, driven by industrial activity, agricultural runoff, and plastic waste, poses an existential threat to marine ecosystems. This pollution not only decimates biodiversity but also impacts human health through contaminated seafood and disrupted climate patterns. Addressing this crisis demands international cooperation, technological innovation, and a fundamental shift in our consumption habits. Solutions range from developing biodegradable plastics to implementing stricter regulations on industrial discharge, requiring concerted global effort and substantial financial investment. Peacebuilding, the process of establishing sustainable peace after conflict, is intrinsically linked to resource management and equitable distribution. Competition for scarce resources, be it water, land, or minerals, often fuels conflict. Similarly, environmental degradation can exacerbate existing tensions, forcing communities to compete for dwindling resources. Therefore, effective peacebuilding strategies must incorporate sustainable resource management practices, fostering cooperation and mutual understanding among different stakeholders. This requires addressing the root causes of conflict, including economic inequality and environmental injustice. These three seemingly disparate fields – gene therapy, ocean pollution, and peacebuilding – are interconnected. The ethical considerations inherent in gene therapy resonate with the ethical dilemmas surrounding resource allocation in addressing ocean pollution and ensuring equitable access to resources in peacebuilding contexts. Ultimately, addressing these challenges effectively necessitates a holistic approach that considers the complex interplay between scientific advancement, environmental sustainability, and social justice.
1. According to the passage, what is a major ethical concern regarding gene therapy?
2. What is the passage's main point about the relationship between ocean pollution and peacebuilding?
3. Which of the following best summarizes the passage's central argument?
4. The author uses the phrase "seemingly disparate" to describe the three issues. What is the purpose of this phrase?