Final answer:
Examples of modern-day situations similar to the predicament in 'The Cold Equations' include the ethical dilemma of resource allocation during a pandemic, the debate over climate change and economic growth, and the dilemma of privacy versus security.
Step-by-step explanation:
An example of a modern-day situation that can be compared to the predicament in the storyline of 'The Cold Equations' is the ethical dilemma surrounding resource allocation during a pandemic. In the story, the spaceship has limited resources, and the pilot is faced with the decision to sacrifice one person's life to save the others. Similarly, during a pandemic, healthcare professionals may face the difficult decision of allocating limited medical resources, such as ventilators, to patients based on their chances of survival.
Another example can be found in the debate over climate change and economic growth. Just like in 'The Cold Equations,' there is a limited amount of resources available to address both issues. Governments and policymakers often face the conflict of choosing between economic growth and implementing environmentally friendly measures. This decision can have long-term consequences for both society and the environment. Lastly, the dilemma of privacy versus security can also mirror the predicament in 'The Cold Equations.' In our modern world, there is an ongoing debate about the balance between privacy rights and national security. Government agencies may need to collect data in order to prevent potential threats, but this raises concerns about invasion of privacy. This situation presents a challenge in finding a solution that addresses the need for security without compromising individual privacy.