The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained traction among geologists as a proposed new geological epoch defined by significant human impact on Earth's systems. Unlike earlier epochs, which were delineated by natural events such as ice ages or asteroid impacts, the Anthropocene is characterized by markers like radioactive isotopes from nuclear tests, plastic pollution, and elevated carbon dioxide levels. However, the formal recognition of this epoch remains contentious. Critics argue that human activity has not yet produced a sufficiently distinct and permanent stratigraphic signature to justify a new epoch, whereas proponents emphasize the unprecedented scale and speed of environmental change. This debate reflects broader questions about how science categorizes time and the role of human agency in shaping planetary history.
❓ 本文によると、人新世をめぐる論争の主な理由は何ですか？
A. 提案された時代区分には、人間の影響を示す明確な指標が欠けている。
B. B. 一部の科学者は、人間の影響が十分に特徴的で永続的であるかどうかに疑問を抱いている。
C. C. 人新世は、氷河期のような自然現象のみに基づいている。
D. D. 地質学的記録には、核実験やプラスチック汚染の証拠は存在しない。
✅ 正确答案
B. Some scientists question whether human effects are distinctive and lasting enough.
IELTS Reading Tips
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