Question

Consider each of the three choices separately and select all that apply. It can be inferred from the passage that the author would agree with which of the following statements?

• A. Over time, the impact of human culture on the natural world has been largely benign.
• B. It is a mistake to think that the natural world contains many areas of pristine wilderness.
• C. The only substantial effects that human agency has had on ecosystems have been inadvertent.
• D.
• E.
• F.
• A. influenced by
• B. older than
• C. coincident with
• D. unimpeded by
• K. similar to
• L.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Interpret the passage. 
The passage critiques the view that there are untouched natural areas. The author suggests that human activity has already impacted most areas of nature. 
Step 2: Analyze the options. 
- (A): The passage does not suggest human culture has been “largely benign” to nature. 
- (B): Correct, the author would agree that many areas are not pristine. 
- (C): This doesn’t align with the passage’s view on human impact, which is broader. 
Step 3: Conclusion. 
Thus, the correct answer is (B). 
 

Answer 2

Step 1: Understand the phrase “coeval with.” 
The phrase means existing or happening at the same time as something else, which is closest to “coincident with.” 
Step 2: Analyze the options. 
- (A): “Influenced by” doesn’t fit the idea of being contemporary or simultaneous. 
- (B): “Older than” is the opposite of what “coeval” implies. 
- (C): Correct, “coeval with” means contemporaneous or coincident in time. 
- (D): “Unimpeded by” has no relation to the concept of time. 
- (E): “Similar to” is too vague and not time-related. 
Step 3: Conclusion. 
Thus, the correct answer is (C).