The concept of 'environmental carrying capacity' has long been central to ecological theory, yet its application to human societies remains contentious. While biologists define carrying capacity as the maximum population size an environment can sustain indefinitely, human systems introduce variables such as technology, trade, and cultural values that complicate direct translation. Recent studies suggest that technological innovation can temporarily raise carrying capacity, but often at the cost of depleting non-renewable resources. This creates a paradoxical situation where short-term gains undermine long-term sustainability. Consequently, some scholars argue for a more dynamic model that integrates socio-economic factors, rather than relying on static biological thresholds. Such a model would acknowledge that human carrying capacity is not fixed but evolves with societal choices, making predictions inherently provisional.
❓ Согласно тексту, почему применение концепции пропускной способности к человеческим обществам проблематично?
A. A) Человеческие популяции слишком велики для точного измерения.
B. B) Технологические инновации всегда приводят к истощению ресурсов.
C. C) Человеческие системы включают такие факторы, как технологии и культура, которые изменяют данное понятие.
D. D) Статические биологические пороги более надёжны для человеческих обществ.
✅ 正确答案
C) Human systems involve factors like technology and culture that alter the concept.
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