The concept of the Anthropocene, a proposed geological epoch defined by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems, has sparked considerable debate among scientists. While some argue that the term accurately reflects the profound changes wrought by industrialization, others contend that its formal recognition is premature. Proponents point to markers such as nuclear fallout, plastic pollution, and elevated carbon dioxide levels as evidence of a distinct geological boundary. Critics, however, emphasize that these changes are not yet fully understood and that the geological timescale requires a more rigorous, long-term perspective. This scholarly disagreement highlights the tension between scientific precision and the urgency of communicating humanity's role in shaping the planet's future.
❓ 과학자들 사이에서 인류세에 관한 주요 의견 차이는 무엇인가?
A. 인간 활동이 중대한 환경 변화를 초래했는지 여부.
B. 이 용어가 현재 단계에서 공식적으로 지질 시대(epoch)로 채택되어야 하는지 여부.
C. 핵 낙진이 플라스틱 오염보다 더 중요한 지표인지 여부.
D. 산업 혁명 이후 이산화탄소 농도가 증가했는지 여부.
✅ 正确答案
Whether the term should be formally adopted as a geological epoch at this stage.
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