The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained traction among geologists as a proposed new geological epoch defined by human impact on Earth's systems. Unlike previous epochs, which were delineated by natural climatic shifts or biological events, the Anthropocene is characterized by markers such as nuclear fallout, plastic pollution, and elevated carbon dioxide levels. However, the formal recognition of this epoch remains contentious. Some scholars argue that human-induced changes are not yet stratigraphically distinct enough to warrant a separate epoch, while others contend that the scale and permanence of these changes, including species extinction rates and altered nitrogen cycles, already surpass those of the Holocene. This debate reflects a broader tension between scientific classification and societal awareness, as naming a new epoch carries profound implications for how humanity perceives its role in planetary history.
❓ 인류세를 새로운 지질 시대(지질 연대 단위)로 공식 인정하는 데 대한 논란의 주요 원인은 무엇인가?
A. 과학자들은 인류세의 정확한 시작 시점에 대해 의견이 일치하지 않는다.
B. B. 어떤 이들은 인간의 변화가 층서학적으로 충분히 구별되지 않는다고 주장하는 반면, 다른 이들은 이미 홀로세 수준의 영향을 초과했다고 믿는다.
C. C. '인류세'라는 용어는 대중에게 널리 받아들여지지 않았다.
D. D. 지구 시스템에 대한 인간의 영향에 대한 증거는 없다.
✅ 正确答案
B. Some argue human changes are not stratigraphically distinct enough, while others believe they already exceed Holocene-level impacts.
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