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臓器移植、生命探査、そして水不足:人類の未来を問う」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The 21st century presents humanity with a complex interplay of unprecedented challenges. Advancements in organ transplantation offer hope for millions suffering from organ failure, yet raise profound ethical dilemmas regarding resource allocation and the definition of life itself. Simultaneously, the relentless pursuit of extraterrestrial life – a quest fueled by both scientific curiosity and the existential need to secure humanity's future – continues to push the boundaries of our technological capabilities. Robotic probes explore distant planets, searching for biosignatures that might indicate the presence of past or present life. This ambitious undertaking requires vast resources, demanding a reassessment of our priorities on Earth. Ironically, while we search for life beyond our planet, a far more immediate crisis threatens our own survival: the global water shortage. Millions lack access to clean drinking water, a situation exacerbated by climate change, unsustainable agricultural practices, and population growth. The scarcity of water impacts not only human health but also food security and economic stability, further compounding the challenges of organ transplantation and space exploration. The interconnectedness of these three seemingly disparate issues – organ transplantation, the search for extraterrestrial life, and water scarcity – highlights the complex web of ethical, technological, and environmental considerations facing humanity. Solving these challenges requires a holistic approach, integrating scientific advancements with responsible resource management and a renewed commitment to global cooperation. The choices we make today will determine not only the immediate well-being of billions but also the long-term sustainability of life on Earth, and perhaps, beyond.

1. According to the passage, what is a major ethical concern regarding organ transplantation?

2. What is the primary motivation behind the search for extraterrestrial life, as described in the passage?

3. How does the passage portray the relationship between the global water shortage and other challenges mentioned?

4. What is the author's overall message regarding the challenges discussed in the passage?