「大気汚染、グローバル化、そしてプライバシー：現代社会の光と影」の英語長文問題

The acrid smell of smog hung heavy in the air, a constant companion to fifteen-year-old Anya. Living in the sprawling metropolis of New City, Anya’s lungs ached with each breath. This wasn't just a fleeting discomfort; it was a daily struggle, a grim reality for millions. The city, once a beacon of opportunity, now choked under its own success, a victim of unchecked industrial growth and inadequate environmental regulations. Anya found solace in her English studies, particularly in novels exploring themes of social injustice. These stories, often set in vastly different contexts, mirrored her own struggles. She devoured works by renowned authors, their words providing an escape from the oppressive reality of New City’s pollution and the ever-present threat to her health. Through these books, she learned about the interconnectedness of global issues – environmental degradation, economic disparity, and the plight of marginalized communities. Her online language exchange program connected her with Liam, a student in rural Ireland. Their conversations, initially about grammar and vocabulary, expanded to include discussions about their vastly different lives. Liam shared concerns about the impact of globalized food systems on his community and the erosion of traditional ways of life. Anya, in turn, detailed the struggles of her city, the suffocating pollution, and the unequal access to healthcare. Their virtual friendship was built on a shared sense of global citizenship, a recognition of their interconnectedness despite the geographical distance. However, this online exchange raised anxieties. Anya was deeply troubled by the amount of personal data she shared online. Concerns over data privacy grew, particularly as she realised the implications of the ubiquitous collection of user data. She wondered about the ethical considerations of the language exchange platform and the potential misuse of her personal information. This worry overshadowed the benefits of the online learning environment, compelling her to reassess the balance between connectivity and privacy in the digital age. The contrast between Anya’s pursuit of knowledge and personal enrichment, her struggle against environmental challenges, and her apprehension regarding data privacy highlights the complexities of modern life. The interconnectedness of seemingly disparate issues – air pollution, globalisation, and privacy concerns – is central to understanding the challenges and opportunities of the twenty-first century.