The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained traction among geologists as a proposed new geological epoch defined by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems. While the Holocene epoch, which began approximately 11,700 years ago, witnessed the rise of human civilization, its stable climate allowed for agricultural development and societal growth. In contrast, the Anthropocene is characterized by markers such as plastic pollution, elevated carbon dioxide levels, and nuclear fallout residues. However, scholars debate its start date: some argue for the Industrial Revolution, while others point to the mid-20th century 'Great Acceleration' when global socioeconomic trends intensified dramatically. This debate is not merely academic; it influences policy frameworks for environmental conservation and our understanding of humanity's role in shaping planetary history. Proponents assert that formally recognizing this epoch underscores the urgency of sustainable practices, whereas skeptics caution that overstating human agency might obscure natural variability.
❓ 本文によると、人新世の開始時期をめぐる議論が重要なのはなぜか。
A. A) それは、その時代の公式な地質学的分類を決定する。
B. B) それは環境政策や、人間の影響に対する私たちの認識に影響を及ぼす。
C. C) それは、地質学者の間での完新世の期間に関する意見の相違を解決する。
D. D) それは「大加速」が産業革命よりも優れていることを強調している。
✅ 正确答案
B
IELTS Reading Tips
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