The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained traction among geologists and environmental scientists as a proposed new geological epoch defined by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems. Unlike previous epochs, which were delineated by natural climatic shifts or biological events, the Anthropocene is characterized by markers such as nuclear fallout, plastic pollution, and elevated carbon dioxide levels. Proponents argue that these markers are stratigraphically distinct and globally synchronous, warranting formal recognition. However, critics contend that the term is more cultural than scientific, noting that human activities have altered the environment for millennia, and that the proposed markers lack the long-term durability of natural geological boundaries. This debate underscores the tension between scientific classification and societal narratives about human responsibility for planetary change.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 일부 비평가들이 인류세를 지질학적 시대로 공식화하는 것에 반대하는 주요 이유는 무엇인가?
A. 인간이 환경에 미치는 영향은 아주 오랜 시간 동안 지속되어 왔으며, 새로운 일이 아니다.
B. B) 제안된 마커들은 전 세계적으로 충분히 널리 퍼져 있지 않아 유용하지 않다.
C. C) 이 용어는 인간 활동보다는 자연적인 기후 변화에 너무 초점을 맞추고 있다.
D. D) 과학자들은 핵 낙진이 유일하게 신뢰할 수 있는 지표라는 데 동의한다.
✅ 正确答案
A) Human impact on the environment has been occurring for a very long time and is not new.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first