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異常気象、人口移動、そして生体情報:近未来都市の課題」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The coastal city of Palestia, once a bustling hub of commerce and culture, is grappling with unprecedented challenges. Rising sea levels, exacerbated by increasingly erratic weather patterns, have begun to encroach upon its once-expansive shoreline. This environmental crisis has triggered a mass exodus. Thousands have been forced to relocate inland, placing a significant strain on resources and infrastructure in the already crowded interior regions. The government, in an attempt to manage this population surge, has implemented a mandatory bio-surveillance program. Every resident, regardless of age or origin, is required to wear a bio-sensor that monitors vital signs and location data. The sensors, while intended to aid in disaster relief efforts and to allocate resources effectively, have sparked intense controversy. Critics argue that the program constitutes a violation of privacy, potentially enabling state surveillance and discrimination. Concerns have been raised about data security and the potential for misuse of sensitive personal information. Furthermore, there are debates about the long-term effects of continuous bio-monitoring on mental health, as the constant awareness of surveillance could lead to stress and anxiety. The ethical implications of balancing public safety and individual liberties in the face of environmental catastrophe are deeply complex. Palestia's predicament serves as a stark example of the interwoven challenges that arise when climate change interacts with rapid population movements and technologically-driven surveillance. The future of the city hinges on a delicate balance: finding effective solutions to environmental challenges while simultaneously preserving the fundamental rights of its citizens.

1. What is the primary cause of the population exodus from Palestia?

2. What is the purpose of the mandatory bio-surveillance program implemented by the Palestia government?

3. What is a major ethical concern raised regarding the bio-surveillance program?

4. Which of the following best describes the central theme of the passage?