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 are identified by natural stratigraphic markers, the Anthropocene is characterized by anthropogenic signatures such as nuclear fallout, plastic pollution, and elevated carbon dioxide levels. However, the formal recognition of this epoch remains contentious. Critics argue that human influence is not uniform temporally or spatially, making it difficult to establish a clear chronological boundary. Proponents counter that the mid-20th century 'Great Acceleration' offers a distinct marker, as post-1950 deposits exhibit unprecedented and synchronous changes across multiple proxies. This debate underscores a fundamental tension in geology: whether to prioritize a narrative of human intervention or adhere strictly to naturalistic criteria for stratigraphic classification.
❓ 本文によると、アントロポセン（人新世）の正式な認定をめぐる論争の主な理由は何か。
A. A) 人間の影響は地層には見られない。
B. B) 人間の影響に対して明確な時間的境界が存在するかどうかについては、見解の相違がある。
C. C) ほとんどの地質学者は、人間が引き起こした環境変化という考えを否定している。
D. D) 提案された時代には、層序学的指標がまったく存在しない。
✅ 正确答案
B) There is disagreement over whether a clear temporal boundary exists for human effects.
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