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I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to request a one-week extension for the upcoming assignment in Sociology 101. Unfortunately, I broke my arm and had to be hospitalized for treatment, which has made it difficult for me to complete my work by the original deadline. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding of my situation.
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When we look at the map comparing Africa’s size to other parts of the world, it becomes clear that Africa is far larger than many people realize—large enough to encompass countries like the United States, India, and China combined. This often surprises those used to seeing maps that distort the continent’s true proportions. Meanwhile, the population pyramid reveals that Africa has a remarkably youthful population, with a broad base representing a high percentage of children and teenagers. Such a demographic profile suggests rapid population growth and numerous potential opportunities, especially in education, workforce development, and economic expansion. However, it also poses significant challenges in terms of healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. Taken together, the map and the pyramid illustrate both Africa’s immense scale and its dynamic, expanding population.
A
1,数多くの理論が導くのは、筋の通った単一の答えではなく、むしろ寄せ集めで入り乱れた諸説の混合にほかならない。
2, (A)
3,(エ)
4,戦争は「本能として」遺伝子に刻まれた行為ではなく、「生存や繁殖のために」遺伝子的利益を目指す行動として生じるという意味。
5,(a)
6,現在または将来の国際秩序から戦争のない世界が生まれようとしていると考える根拠はほとんどない。
7,生物学的・社会的・政治的要因が複雑に作用し、資源や信条の対立、環境の危機など多様な動機が絶えず戦争を誘発するため将来予測の困難さを含め、国際協調や制度的整備のみでは根絶しきれず、長い人類史を通じて続いてきた戦争は今後もなお続くと考えるから。
B
解答例1
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One of the greatest threats to peace in the modern world is the increasing polarization of societies due to misinformation and ideological extremism. When false narratives spread rapidly online, trust between communities erodes and conflicts intensify. To address this threat, humans must first focus on cultivating critical thinking and media literacy, ensuring that people learn to evaluate sources objectively. Furthermore, governments and NGOs can collaborate to promote transparent communication, fact-checking, and constructive dialogue across cultural and political divides. By encouraging education, empathy, and mutual understanding, societies can reduce tension and foster a peaceful global community.
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解答例2
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I consider the proliferation of advanced military technology to be a profound threat to peace. With weapons becoming more powerful and accessible, the risk of devastating conflicts rises. To mitigate this danger, worldwide agreements on arms control and ethical guidelines for emerging technologies are essential. Strengthening international institutions that oversee disarmament processes also helps prevent an arms race. When nations shift their focus from competition to collaboration—investing in humanitarian projects or joint research for disease prevention—they reduce the impulse to resort to force, paving the way to long-term peace.[/su_spoiler]
(A) Should the Japanese government support dam building?
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1. (A) 賛成: Support Dam Building
I believe the Japanese government should support dam building. Dams help ensure stable water access, protect against floods, and generate renewable hydropower. As Beever (2020) suggests, dams have historically been essential for both irrigation and flood control, allowing civilizations to thrive even in challenging environments. Critics claim large dams displace communities and harm ecosystems (Walls 2023). Indeed, if poorly managed, dam construction can lead to habitat destruction and social dislocation. However, the government can mitigate these issues by conducting thorough environmental impact assessments and relocating residents with fair compensation and support. Such measures would address the opposition’s concern while retaining the long-term benefits of hydroelectric energy, flood defense, and stable water supply. Ultimately, carefully planned dams can be a key component in meeting Japan’s increasing energy and water needs while protecting people from natural disasters.
2. (A) 反対: Oppose Dam Building
I believe the Japanese government should not focus on building dams. Walls (2023) indicates that mega dams can displace massive numbers of people, destroy habitats, and trigger conflict over scarce resources. While proponents, such as Beever (2020), highlight dams’ ability to store water and generate clean energy, there are more sustainable ways to achieve energy security without causing large-scale ecological damage. Opponents of my view argue that dams are among the most reliable forms of renewable energy. Yet wind, solar, and geothermal technologies, if integrated smartly, can provide cleaner electricity without irreversibly altering rivers and displacing communities. The cost of maintaining and repairing aging dams also escalates over time, which becomes an economic burden. In sum, Japan should turn away from large-scale dam projects and instead invest in less destructive energy solutions to preserve its environment and protect local communities.
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(B) Should the Japanese government support energy projects alternative to fossil fuels?
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3. 賛成: Support Alternative Energy Projects
The Japanese government should invest heavily in alternative energy projects to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. According to Urgee (2024), carbon emissions continue to rise globally, and record high temperatures are already affecting many regions. Critics insist that the upfront costs of renewables—particularly geothermal or large-scale solar—are too steep. However, ignoring climate change will lead to catastrophic economic and social damage in the long run. Moreover, hydropower and geothermal energy can offer stable energy outputs over many decades, and even wind and solar, though intermittent, can be supplemented by better storage technology. By transitioning away from fossil fuels, Japan can not only mitigate environmental risks but also position itself as a leader in sustainable innovation. Thus, pursuing renewable energy projects is essential for both Japan’s future energy security and its global responsibility to fight climate change.
4. (B) 反対: Do Not Focus on Alternatives
I believe the Japanese government should not make alternative energy projects its primary focus right now. Fossil fuels remain a more predictable energy source, ensuring stable supply for businesses and households. Critics of fossil fuels argue that global warming demands urgent change, citing rising carbon dioxide levels (Urgee 2024). However, rushing into large-scale wind or solar projects can lead to unreliable power grids, especially if the government cannot establish sufficient storage capacity. In contrast, coal and natural gas are already integrated into Japan’s energy infrastructure and offer consistent energy production. Furthermore, the higher upfront costs of renewables could burden taxpayers and push electricity prices up. While reducing emissions is important, Japan should concentrate on improving the efficiency and safety of existing fossil-fuel-based plants first, rather than committing itself prematurely to expensive, large-scale renewable projects.
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①A book that is immediately useful today can quickly become useless tomorrow.
②If a book seems very helpful today, it may no longer be helpful tomorrow.
③What is handy in a book today can easily turn unhelpful tomorrow.
