雅思阅读

📖 Reading Passage

The concept of the 'Anthropocene' has gained traction among geologists as a proposed new geological epoch characterized by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems. Unlike previous epochs, which were defined by natural climatic shifts or biological events, the Anthropocene is marked by anthropogenic 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 the term is more cultural or political than strictly geological, as human effects are not uniform across time or space. Others contend that the scale and permanence of human modifications, particularly since the mid-20th century, justify its inclusion in the geological timescale. The debate highlights a fundamental tension between scientific classification and human agency.