The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained traction among geologists as a proposed new geological epoch defined by humanity's profound 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 proposal remains contentious. Some scientists argue that the term should be formalized to reflect the scale of human-induced change, while others contend that the changes are not yet synchronous across the globe, failing to meet the strict criteria of a geological time unit. This debate underscores a deeper tension between scientific classification and the recognition of human agency in shaping planetary history.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 일부 과학자들이 인류세를 지질학적 시대로 공식화하는 것에 반대하는 주된 이유는 무엇인가?
A. A. 이를 정의하는 데 사용되는 지표는 보편적으로 합의되지 않았다.
B. B. 인간에 의한 변화가 전 세계적으로 동시에 발생하고 있지는 않다.
C. C. 핵 낙진과 플라스틱 오염은 너무 최근의 현상이라 연구하기 어렵다.
D. D. 이 개념은 이전 시대의 자연적인 기후 변화를 무시한다.
✅ 正确答案
B. Human-induced changes are not occurring simultaneously worldwide.
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