近畿大学の英語：長文読解問題3

長文読解問題

課題文

次の英文を読み、各問いに答えなさい。

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In many countries, the concept of "work-life balance" has become a topic of great interest. As societies modernize and work demands increase, people are starting to realize the importance of balancing their personal lives with their professional responsibilities. Many companies, especially in developed countries, have introduced policies that encourage employees to take time off, work from home, or even have flexible working hours.

One reason for this shift is the growing awareness of mental health issues. Studies show that overworking can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. As a result, many companies now understand that a healthy work-life balance can improve employee productivity and reduce health-related costs. Countries like Sweden and Denmark have pioneered work-life balance policies, offering shorter work weeks and extensive vacation time. These changes have led to increased job satisfaction and overall well-being among workers.

However, not everyone agrees with these new trends. Some people believe that longer working hours are necessary for economic growth, especially in competitive industries. They argue that a strong work ethic and dedication are essential to achieving success, both personally and for the economy. Nevertheless, the debate continues, and each country is attempting to find the right balance for its own culture and economy.

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質問

問1. According to the passage, what is one reason why companies are encouraging work-life balance?

(A) To help employees achieve economic success.
(B) To increase company profits.
(C) To reduce health-related costs.
(D) To promote long working hours.

問2. What is mentioned as a benefit of work-life balance in countries like Sweden and Denmark?

(A) Decreased job satisfaction.
(B) Increased well-being among workers.
(C) Reduced time off for employees.
(D) A decline in vacation time.

問3. According to the passage, what is one argument against work-life balance policies?

(A) They decrease employee productivity.
(B) They require employees to work from home.
(C) They limit economic growth in competitive industries.
(D) They are popular only in developing countries.

問4. Which of the following best describes the main idea of the passage?

(A) Work-life balance policies are harmful to economic growth.
(B) Work-life balance policies have only positive effects.
(C) Different countries approach work-life balance differently.
(D) Employees prefer long working hours.

問5. What does the author imply about the future of work-life balance policies?

(A) All countries will adopt the same approach to work-life balance.
(B) Companies will eventually eliminate flexible working hours.
(C) Work-life balance policies will vary based on each country’s culture and economy.
(D) Work-life balance policies are unnecessary in modern society.

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解答と解説

1. (C)

   • 解説: 「a healthy work-life balance can improve employee productivity and reduce health-related costs」とあり、健康関連のコスト削減が促進の理由と述べられています。

2. (B)

   • 解説: 「These changes have led to increased job satisfaction and overall well-being among workers」と記載されており、スウェーデンやデンマークでは労働者の幸福度が向上したと述べられています。

3. (C)

   • 解説: 一部の人々が「longer working hours are necessary for economic growth」と考えており、競争の激しい業界では長時間労働が経済成長に必要だと述べられています。

4. (C)

   • 解説: 本文全体で「各国が独自の文化と経済に合ったバランスを模索している」点が述べられているため、この選択肢が最も適しています。

5. (C)

   • 解説: 最後に「each country is attempting to find the right balance for its own culture and economy」と述べており、国ごとに異なる政策が採用されることが暗示されています。

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