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 plastic pollution, nuclear fallout, and accelerated species extinction clearly distinguish this period from the Holocene, which began about 11,700 years ago. However, critics contend that the term is more cultural than scientific, as the human footprint is not uniform across time or space, and formalizing it may oversimplify complex natural processes. This debate underscores the challenge of integrating human agency into geological classification systems that traditionally rely on natural, stratigraphic evidence.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 일부 과학자들이 인류세를 지질학적 시대로 공식화하는 것에 반대하는 주요 이유는 무엇인가?
A. A. 인간의 영향에 대한 증거는 너무 부족하여 측정할 수 없다.
B. B. 그 개념은 일관된 자연적 증거보다는 문화적 표지에 의존한다.
C. C. 홀로세 시대는 이미 끝났으며 비교할 수 없습니다.
D. D. 인간의 활동은 아직까지 심각한 환경 변화를 초래하지 않았다.
✅ 正确答案
B. The concept relies on cultural markers rather than consistent natural evidence.
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