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. Proponents argue that markers such as nuclear fallout, plastic pollution, and elevated carbon dioxide levels provide clear stratigraphic evidence of human activity. However, critics contend that the term lacks precise temporal boundaries, as human influence has been gradual rather than abrupt, and that formalizing such an epoch may oversimplify the complex interactions between natural and anthropogenic processes. Despite this debate, the Anthropocene concept has proven valuable beyond geology, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue about humanity's role in shaping planetary systems and informing policy discussions on sustainability. Thus, while its geological status remains contested, its heuristic power in highlighting the scale of human impact is widely acknowledged.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 일부 과학자들이 인류세를 지질학적 시대로 공식화하는 것에 반대하는 주된 이유는 무엇인가?
A. A. 인간 활동의 흔적은 지층에서 식별할 수 있을 만큼 뚜렷하지 않다.
B. B. 그 개념은 과학적 증거보다는 정치적 의제에 너무 크게 영향을 받아 왔다.
C. C. 인간의 영향은 지구에 점진적으로 작용해 왔으며, 명확한 시작점을 정의하기 어렵게 만든다.
D. D. 해당 용어는 환경 과학자들 사이에서 충분한 인기를 얻지 못했습니다.
✅ 正确答案
C. Human influence on Earth has been gradual, making it difficult to define a clear starting point.
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