Drawing Lessons from History
Read Drawing Lessons from History and check the IELTS Reading answers. Numerous ancient civilisations collapsed or disappeared, leaving behind grand ruins reminiscent of what poet Shelley described in his sonnet Ozymandias. The term 'collapse' refers to a significant reduction in population and/or…
Passage preview
Numerous ancient civilisations collapsed or disappeared, leaving behind grand ruins reminiscent of what poet Shelley described in his sonnet Ozymandias. The term 'collapse' refers to a significant reduction in population and/or political, economic, and social complexity of a society across a wide area for an extended period.
Answers with explanations
- 14. D
The writer explains that people are attracted ('drawn') to ruins because of their **beauty** and the **enigmas** (mysteries) they present. This matches option D, which combines beauty and mystery.
- 15. C
The text states that the suspicion about ecological suicide has been **substantiated** (backed up) by **discoveries** from a **wide list of experts** (archaeologists, climatologists, etc.). This matches option C, 'emerged from a range of disciplines'.
- 16. A
The writer states that collapses generally followed **similar patterns**. This supports option A, which states that the pace (process/pattern) of collapse showed **resemblance across societies**.
- 17. NOT GIVEN
The statement claims the **relics** were **influenced** by the sonnet. The text says the ruins are **reminiscent** of (remind us of) the sonnet. It does not claim the ancient builders were influenced by a 19th-century poem. Answer: NOT GIVEN.
- 18. YES
The statement says there is a widespread belief that environmental issues are the **principal hazard** (eclipse other threats). The text confirms **many individuals believe** environmental problems **eclipse other global threats**. Answer: YES.
- 19. NO
The statement claims scientists have reached a **consensus** (agreement). The text states the seriousness is **vigorously debated**, indicating disagreement. Answer: NO.
- 20. YES
The statement says **poisonous substances** (toxic chemicals) are a **relatively modern issue**. The text lists **toxic chemicals** as one of the **'four new ones'** (modern problems) not present in past societies. Answer: YES.
- 21. YES
The statement says we should **reflect cautiously**. The text agrees, stating we can learn only if we **carefully contemplate** (reflect on) the lessons. Answer: YES.
- 22. C
The **remarkable achievements** (wealth and power) are evidenced by the **grandeur of these ruins** (physical features). This links the achievements to the physical remains. Answer matches option C.
- 23. A
The text discusses the **analogy** between individual life and society. It states this metaphor **proves inaccurate** for many societies and that **not all** followed this trajectory. This means the analogy is **not implacable** (not inevitable/universal) for all. Answer matches option A.
- 24. F
The text states that modern environmental problems include the old ones **plus four new ones**. This means the number/scope of challenges has **increased compared to the past**. Answer matches option F.
- 25. D
The text describes technology as an **advantage** (beneficial) but also a source of **risk** (destructive). This means it is **potentially both positive and negative**. Answer matches option D.
- 26. E
The text says studying the past (reflections) will **not yield straightforward answers directly applicable**. This matches the option stating it **will not address current issues directly**. Answer matches option E.