The concept of 'digital twins' has emerged as a transformative tool in urban planning, representing a paradigm shift from static models to dynamic, real-time simulations. A digital twin is a virtual replica of a physical city, continuously updated with data from sensors, satellites, and citizen feedback. This allows planners to test the impacts of policy changes, such as traffic management or climate adaptation strategies, before implementation. However, critics argue that over-reliance on such models may obscure social inequalities, as data gaps often exclude marginalized communities. Proponents counter that with inclusive data governance, digital twins can enhance democratic participation by visualizing future scenarios for public scrutiny. Ultimately, the efficacy of digital twins hinges not on technological sophistication alone, but on the ethical frameworks guiding their use.
❓ According to the passage, what is a primary concern regarding the use of digital twins in urban planning?
A. A. They are too expensive for most cities to implement.
B. B. They may overlook the needs of disadvantaged groups due to incomplete data.
C. C. They cannot simulate real-time traffic conditions accurately.
D. D. They reduce the role of human planners in decision-making.
✅ 正确答案
B. They may overlook the needs of disadvantaged groups due to incomplete data.
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