「インフレーション、葬儀費用高騰、そして貧困：現代社会の複雑な相互作用」の英語長文問題

The rising cost of living, fueled by persistent inflation, is casting a long shadow over modern society, particularly impacting vulnerable populations. This multifaceted challenge intersects with several key societal aspects, creating a complex web of interconnected issues. One stark example is the escalating cost of funeral services. Traditionally a solemn yet manageable expense, funerals are now becoming increasingly unaffordable for many families, particularly those already struggling with poverty. Inflation erodes purchasing power, meaning a family's income stretches less far than before. This reduced purchasing power exacerbates existing financial difficulties, pushing families further into debt and increasing reliance on social support systems. The added burden of funeral expenses can be catastrophic for low-income households, potentially leading to debt spirals and further financial instability. This, in turn, can create a vicious cycle, where financial hardship makes it increasingly difficult to navigate even ordinary life events, with funerals representing just one significant example. Furthermore, the increasing cost of funerals highlights a deeper problem: the inadequate measurement and understanding of poverty. Traditional poverty indicators often fail to capture the full impact of unexpected, large expenses such as funerals. These unforeseen costs can quickly deplete savings and push families into crisis, even if their average monthly income places them above the official poverty line. A more comprehensive understanding of poverty requires incorporating the vulnerability to such unpredictable financial shocks, recognizing that seemingly stable financial situations can be swiftly undermined by events like these. Policymakers need to move beyond simple income-based measurements to address the pervasive impact of inflation and unexpected costs on individuals and families.