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トロツキー、建築、そして気候変動:イデオロギーと都市空間の変容」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

Leon Trotsky, a key figure in the Russian Revolution, held complex and often contradictory views that extended beyond politics to encompass architecture and urban planning. His socialist ideals profoundly influenced his vision for the ideal city, a vision shaped by both utopian aspirations and the harsh realities of Soviet Russia. Trotsky’s architectural preferences leaned towards functionalism, emphasizing practicality and social utility over aesthetic ornamentation. He believed that architecture should serve the needs of the proletariat, creating spaces that fostered collective living and community engagement. This contrasted sharply with the opulent styles prevalent in pre-revolutionary Russia and mirrored the broader socialist emphasis on egalitarianism. However, the rapid industrialization and urbanization under Stalin’s regime drastically altered the landscape, often disregarding Trotsky’s vision. The emphasis shifted from community-focused design to monumental architecture intended to project state power. This divergence highlights the tensions between ideological ideals and the pragmatic necessities of governance in a rapidly transforming society. Today, the challenges of climate change add another layer of complexity to urban planning. The principles of sustainable urban development—energy efficiency, green spaces, and reduced carbon footprints—require a re-evaluation of traditional urban design. Ironically, some aspects of Trotsky’s functionalist approach, with its focus on efficiency and resource optimization, might offer insights relevant to addressing the contemporary challenges posed by climate change. The question remains whether the utopian ideals of a socially just and environmentally sustainable city can ever be fully realized, given the persistent interplay between political ideology, economic pressures, and environmental realities.

1. According to the passage, which of the following best describes Trotsky’s architectural preferences?

2. The passage suggests a contrast between Trotsky’s vision and the realities of Soviet urban development under Stalin. What is the primary source of this contrast?

3. How does the passage connect Trotsky’s architectural views to the contemporary issue of climate change?

4. The passage’s overall tone can best be described as: