The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained considerable traction in geological and environmental circles, though its formal recognition as a new epoch remains contentious. Proponents argue that human activities, particularly since the mid-20th century, have left indelible markers in sedimentary layers, such as radioactive isotopes from nuclear tests and microplastics. These signatures, they contend, justify a distinct geological time unit. However, skeptics within the geological community emphasize that the Earth's stratigraphic record must reflect a clear, globally synchronous change, not merely a diffuse anthropogenic imprint. They caution that the term, while evocative for public discourse, may conflate geological precision with political advocacy. This debate underscores a deeper tension between scientific classification and societal urgency, as the label 'Anthropocene' carries profound implications for how humanity perceives its role in shaping planetary history.
❓ この文章によると、一部の地質学者が人新世の正式な認定に反対する主な理由は何ですか。
A. A. 彼らは、人間の影響はあまりにも局地的であり、地球規模では同時性がないと信じている。
B. B. 彼らは、その用語が科学的正確さよりも主に政治的目的で使用されていると主張している。
C. C. 彼らは、使用されるマーカーが堆積層においてまだ明確に定義されていないと主張している。
D. D. 彼らは、その概念が地質学的時間に対する一般の理解を損なうと考えている。
✅ 正确答案
A
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