阅读理解。
Skeptics are strange lot. Some of them refuse to admit the serious threat of human activities to the
environment, and they are tired of people who disagree with them. Those people, say skeptics, spread nothing
but bad news about the environment. The "eco-guilt" brought on by the discouraging about our planet gives
rise to the popularity of skeptics as people search for more comforting worldviews.
Perhaps that explains why a new book by Bjorn Lomborg received so much publicity. That book, The
Skeptical Environmentalist, declares that it measures the "real state of the world" as fine. Of course, another
explanation is the deep pockets of some big businesses with special interests. Indeed, Mr. Lomborg's views
are similar to those of some Industry-funded organizations, which start huge activities though the media to
confuse the public about issues like global warming.
So it was strange to see Mr. Lomborg's book go largely unchallenged in the media though his beliefs were
contrary to most scientific opinions. One national newspaper in Canada ran a number of articles and reviews
full of words of praise, even with the conclusion that "After Lomborg, the environmental movement will begin
to die down."
Such one-sided views should have immediately been challenged. But only a different review appeared in
Nature, a respected science magazine with specific readership. The review remarked that Mr. Lomborg's
"preference for unexamined materials is incredible (不可信的)".
A critical (批判的) eye is valuable, and the media should present information in such a way that could
allow people to make informed decisions. Unfortunately, that is often inaccessible as blocked by the desire
to be shocking or to defend some special interest. People might become half-blind before a world partially
exhibited by the media. That's a shame, because matters concerning the health of the planet are far too
important to be treated lightly.
1. According to the passage, which of the following may be regarded as "skeptics"?
A. People who agree on the popularity of "eco-guilt".
B. People who disbelieve the serious situation of our planet.
C. People who dislike the harmful effect of human activities.
D. People who spread comforting news to protect our environment.
2. Which of the following can be a reason for the popularity of Lomborg's books?
A. Some big businesses intend to protect their own interests.
B. The book challenges views about the fine state of the world.
C. The author convinces people to speak comforting worldviews.
D. Industry-funded media present confusing information.
3. The author mentioned the review in Nature in order to _____.
A. voice a different opinion
B. find fault with Lomborg's book
C. challenge the authority of the media
D. point out the value of scientific views.
4. What is the author's main purpose in writing the passenger?
A. To encourage the skeptics to have a critical eye.
B. To warn the public of the danger of half-blindness with reviews.
C. To blame the media's lack of responsibility in information.
D. To show the importance of presenting overall information by the media.
