Comprehension
Objectively, of course, the various ecosystems that sustain life on the planet proceed independently of human agency, just as they operated before the hectic ascendancy of Homo sapiens. But it is also true that it is difficult to think of a single such system that has not, for better or worse, been substantially modified by human culture. Nor is this simply the work of the industrial centuries. It has been happening since the days of ancient Mesopotamia. It is coeval with the origins of writing, and has occurred throughout our social existence. And it is this irreversibly modified world, from the polar caps to the equatorial forests, that is all the nature we have.
Question: 1

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?

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For "inference" questions, look for statements that align with the overall critique or argument made in the passage.
Updated On: Oct 3, 2025
  • Over time, the impact of human culture on the natural world has been largely benign.
  • It is a mistake to think that the natural world contains many areas of pristine wilderness.
  • The only substantial effects that human agency has had on ecosystems have been inadvertent. 
     

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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

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). 
 

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Question: 2

The phrase “coeval with” appears underlined and in boldface in lines 7-8 of the passage. In the context in which it appears, “coeval with” most nearly means:

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When encountering specific terms like "coeval with," focus on the meaning of simultaneity or co-existence in time.
Updated On: Oct 3, 2025
  • influenced by
  • older than
  • coincident with
  • unimpeded by
  • similar to 
     

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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

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). 
 

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