懒笔记
2021年12月英语四级真题第1套 Part III Section C (2) Why are humans so curious?
CET-4 · 来自 2021年12月英语四级真题第1套 · Part III Section C (2) · 阅读理解（四选一）

Why are humans so curious?

《人类为何如此好奇?》 —— 2021年12月英语四级真题第1套文章逐层精读

本文选自2020年7月 19 日刊登在 www.livescience.com(生活科学网站)上的一篇标题为“Why are humans so curious?”(《人类为何如此好奇?》)的文章。

本页是 2021年12月英语四级真题第1套 Part III Section C (2) 文章的精读视角页——这篇议论文全文 335 词、8 段，CEFR 难度 C1（C1 级在英语四级文章中占 32%），作者立场为「客观中立」；英文原文之外，本篇已有的 11 项精读维度逐项展开，其中能迁移到其他英语四级真题文章的判断方法（篇章结构、修辞、言外之意、作者态度、体裁速判）随各维度一并讲透。

精读最佳实践

本页解析里的段号（P1）都可以点——点一下，原文在顶部翻开并定位到该段，解析引用的原文同步标亮；合上原文，你还停在刚才读到的位置。点 P1 试试。

PASSAGE · 文章原文

8 段英文原文

以下为2021年12月英语四级真题第1套 Part III Section C (2) 的阅读理解（四选一）原文，共 8 段。左侧 P1–P8 是段落编号——本页全部解析（结构、逐段、修辞、自检题）都以它为坐标回指原文，点击解析里的段号，原文即在顶部翻开并定位到该段、引用的原文同步标亮；合上原文仍停在当前阅读位置。原文保持卷面形态，不带翻译与标注。

Why are humans so curious?

The human thirst for knowledge is the driving force behind our successful development as a species. But curiosity can also be dangerous, leading to setbacks or even downfalls. Given curiosity's complexity, scientists have found it hard to define.

While pinning down a definition has proven tricky, the general consensus is it's some means of information gathering. Psychologists also agree curiosity is intrinsically(内在地) motivated.

Curiosity covers such a large set of behaviors that there probably isn't any single "curiosity gene" that makes humans wonder about and explore their environment. That said, curiosity does have a genetic component. Genes and the environment interact in many complex ways to shape individuals and guide their behavior, including their curiosity.

Regardless of their genetic makeup, infants have to learn an incredible amount of information in a short time, and curiosity is one of the tools humans have found to accomplish that gigantic task.

Hundreds of studies show that infants prefer novelty. It's what motivates non-human animals, human infants and probably human adults to explore and seek out new things before growing less interested in them after continued exposure.

But curiosity often comes with a cost.

In some situations, the stakes are low and failure is a healthy part of growth. For instance, many babies are perfectly proficient crawlers, but they decide to try walking because there's more to see and do when they stand upright. But this milestone comes at a small cost. A study of 12- to 19-month-olds learning how to walk documented that these children fell down a lot. Seventeen times per hour, to be exact. But walking is faster than crawling, so this motivates expert crawlers to transition to walking.

Sometimes, however, testing out a new idea can lead to disaster. For instance, the Inuit people of the Arctic regions have created incredible modes to deal with the challenges of living in northern climates, but what we forget about are the tens of thousands of people that tried and failed to make it in those challenging landscapes.

PARAGRAPHS · 逐段精读

8 段逐段主旨与解读

逐段拆解2021年12月英语四级真题第1套 的这篇原文——每段给出英文段落主旨、段落标题与中文解读，并提炼一条「这段为什么这样读」的具体方法。

  1. P1

    The Paradox of Curiosity

    Curiosity drives human success but poses dangers and defies easy definition.

    这个 opening paragraph 为整篇文章的 thesis 做了完美的 setup。通过先 acknowledging curiosity 的 positive role,再 introducing 其 dangers,最后指出定义的 difficulty,作者 creates 一个 framework 来 justify 后续对 curiosity 的 comprehensive examination。这段对应文章主旨中的 'propelled human development' 和 'carries inherent risks' 两个 key components,是整个 argument 的 foundation。

    识别转折词定位对比点
  2. P2

    Defining Curiosity

    Curiosity is broadly defined as intrinsically motivated information gathering.

    这个 transitional paragraph 完成了从 problem identification 到 solution framework 的 shift。通过 establishing 'information gathering' 和 'intrinsically motivated' 这两个 key characteristics,作者为后续讨论 genetic basis 和 behavioral manifestations 提供了 conceptual foundation。这段对应文章主旨中的 'intrinsically motivated drive for information gathering',是 thesis 的 definitional component。

    提取让步后的核心论断
  3. P3

    Genetic Basis of Curiosity

    Curiosity has a genetic component involving complex gene-environment interactions rather than a single gene.

    这段 introduces biological foundation 来 support 文章主旨中的 'genetically influenced' 这个 component。作者 carefully navigates 遗传决定论和环境决定论之间的 middle ground,通过 gene-environment interaction 的 framework 来 explain curiosity 的 origins。这个 nuanced view 为理解为什么 curiosity 是 universal 但又有 individual variations 提供了 scientific basis。

    识别否定后的真正主张
  4. P4

    Curiosity's Functional Role in Early Learning

    Curiosity serves as a crucial tool enabling infants to accomplish rapid, extensive learning.

    这是一个 pivotal paragraph,它 connects biological basis (前段) 和 behavioral manifestations (后续段落)。通过 establishing curiosity 作为 learning tool 的 functional role,作者 explains 为什么 curiosity 会 universally present in infants。这段为文章主旨中的 'essential for learning and exploration' 提供了 developmental justification,是从 'why curiosity exists' 到 'how curiosity works' 的关键 transition。

    定位功能性关系表述
  5. P5

    Novelty-Seeking as Curiosity's Manifestation

    Extensive research confirms that novelty preference motivates exploration across species and ages until habituation occurs.

    这段通过 solid empirical evidence 将前面的 theoretical discussion grounded in observable behavior。Novelty preference 作为 curiosity 的 behavioral proxy,connects genetic basis (第3段), functional role (第4段) 和 actual manifestation。这段为文章主旨中的 'drive for information gathering' 提供了 mechanistic detail: curiosity operates through novelty-seeking 和 subsequent habituation 的 cycle。这个 段落 also prepares 读者 for next section about costs,因为 exploration driven by novelty 必然 involves risks。

    归纳实证结论的适用范围
  6. P6

    The Cost of Curiosity

    Curiosity involves costs.

    这个 strategic paragraph 是文章结构的 hinge。它 separates benefits discussion (第1段-5) from costs discussion (第7段-8),完美 mirrors 文章主旨的两个 main components。虽然只有一句话,但它 fundamentally reorients 读者的 interpretive framework。前面建立的 positive view 现在必须 accommodate negative aspects。这个 段落 exemplifies 议论文中 'both/and' rather than 'either/or' thinking 的重要性,reinforces 开头段落提出的 curiosity's dual nature。

    识别论证方向转折点
  7. P7

    Acceptable Costs of Curiosity-Driven Exploration

    In low-risk situations, curiosity-driven failures like infants falling while learning to walk are acceptable costs for developmental gains.

    这段 begins elaborating 文章主旨中 'failures ranging from minor setbacks' 的部分。通过 infant walking 这个 universally understood example,作者 illustrates curiosity's costs can be manageable 和 worthwhile。这个 段落 establishes baseline: curiosity-driven risk-taking 有时 produces negative outcomes (falling),但 when risks are low 和 benefits are high,这些 costs 是 acceptable tradeoff。这个 nuanced view prevents simplistic 'curiosity is dangerous' interpretation,maintains 文章的 balanced perspective。

    从具体案例提炼普遍原则
  8. P8

    Catastrophic Costs of Exploratory Failure

    In high-stakes situations, curiosity-driven exploration can result in catastrophic failure, as evidenced by countless lives lost in attempts to adapt to extreme environments.

    这个 concluding paragraph completes 文章主旨中 'catastrophic outcomes' 的 elaboration。通过 Inuit example 和 especially survivorship bias 的 revelation,作者 forces 读者 confront curiosity 的 ultimate cost: death。这个 段落 不是 negating curiosity's value,而是 establishing full accounting of its consequences。Together with 第7段,这两段 create complete picture: curiosity's costs exist on a spectrum,from minor (falling while learning) to fatal (Arctic exploration failures)。这个 nuanced conclusion 防止了 simplistic interpretations,reinforces 开头提出的 curiosity's dual nature,并 echoes 文章主旨的 balanced assessment of curiosity as both 'essential' 和 'risky'。

    识别对比中的变量差异
SELF CHECK · 段落自检题

8 道逐段细节自检题

针对2021年12月英语四级真题第1套这篇原文，每段配 1 道细节题（ 1 个正确项 + 5 个干扰项 ，由懒笔记精读引擎基于本段命制，非试卷原题）。 选项默认中性；点「显示答案与解析」展开正确项、解析与最快解法，现代浏览器会同步高亮正确选项。

  1. 第 1 段 定位词 scientists complexity

    Why have scientists found it difficult to define curiosity?

    • A It has played no role in human development.
    • B It is harmful in every situation.
    • C Its complexity makes it hard to pin down a definition.
    • D Scientists have not collected enough information about humans.
    • E Human development has made curiosity unnecessary.
    • F Curiosity is identical in all human beings.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：C

    正确项把原文的 curiosity's complexity 与 hard to define 合并为因果表达，保留了核心逻辑：对象具有 complexity，因此 definition 难以确定。障碍在于原文先陈述正面 driving force，再提示 dangerous，最后才落到定义困难；考生若只读前面的价值判断，容易把背景错当作原因。

    因果链秒筛 时间紧时，不必从头通读。直接用 scientists 跳至 第1段，再以 complexity 核实原因句。把每个选项压缩成“定义困难的原因”，凡是不能与 hard to define 构成直接因果链的立即排除，最后选择正确项。

  2. 第 2 段 定位词 general consensus curiosity

    What is the general consensus about curiosity?

    • A It is motivated mainly by external rewards.
    • B It can be fully defined by psychologists.
    • C It is a behavior limited to human beings.
    • D It is a means of gathering information.
    • E It develops only after formal education.
    • F It is caused by a single biological factor.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：D

    该项准确改写 some means of information gathering：means 对应方式，gathering information 与 information gathering 只是词序转换。障碍在于原文还包含关于 motivation 的相邻判断，考生若不区分 definition 与 motivation，容易选择答非所问的内容。

    共识内容分箱 用 general consensus 这个低频逻辑词直达 第2段，不需要逐句翻译。只截取该词后的一个语义单元，并将选项按“直接回答共识内容”与“回答其他属性”二分；先排除答非所问的选项，再选择正确项。

  3. 第 3 段 定位词 curiosity genes and the environment

    According to the passage, how is an individual's curiosity shaped?

    • A It is determined by one specific curiosity gene.
    • B It is influenced by the environment but not by genes.
    • C It remains unchanged throughout a person's life.
    • D It is unrelated to the exploration of the environment.
    • E It is shaped by complex interactions between genes and the environment.
    • F It can be explained without considering behavior.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：E

    正确项保留了原文的全部关键限制：genes、environment、interact 以及 complex ways，并把 including their curiosity 对应到题干对象。障碍在于段落先说不存在 single curiosity gene，容易诱导考生选“完全由环境决定”；实际上作者表达的是 interaction model，而非二选一立场。

    极端词反筛 用 curiosity 确认主题，再用 genes and the environment 直达 第3段，随后采用“极端词反筛”：先检查含 one、not by、unchanged、unrelated 等强限定的选项是否有原文支持。最后选择完整保留相关因素及其关系的正确项。

  4. 第 4 段 定位词 infants in a short time

    Why is curiosity described as a useful tool for infants?

    • A It allows them to avoid all physical risks.
    • B It enables them to inherit more genes from their parents.
    • C It makes them lose interest in unfamiliar objects.
    • D It removes the need for them to learn from experience.
    • E It guarantees their success in every new task.
    • F It helps them acquire a vast amount of information in a short time.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：F

    正确项将 learn an incredible amount of information in a short time 同义改写为 acquire a vast amount of information，并准确说明 curiosity 的工具功能。障碍在于原文用 that gigantic task 回指前文任务；考生若未回读，就可能只知道存在一个巨大任务，却无法识别其具体内容。

    展开任务指代 先以 infants 扫描，再用 in a short time 定位到 第4段。定位后立即展开该句中的任务指代，并将具体任务与选项核对；能完整复原任务内容及时间限制的正确项即为答案。

  5. 第 5 段 定位词 continued exposure new things

    What tends to happen after continued exposure to new things?

    • A Interest in them gradually decreases.
    • B People become increasingly eager to explore them.
    • C They become completely unfamiliar to infants.
    • D Only human adults continue to seek them out.
    • E Curiosity becomes entirely genetically determined.
    • F The need for information disappears permanently.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：A

    该项是 grow less interested in them after continued exposure 的直接同义改写：grow less interested 对应 interest decreases，them 指 new things。障碍是原文把探索与后续变化压在一个长句中，选项若只抓 explore 或 seek out，就会答到错误的时间阶段。

    截读句尾 以 continued exposure 精确跳到 第5段，然后只读取 after 所限定的尾部信息，暂时遮蔽其他时间阶段的内容。把选项逐个放入“After continued exposure, ...”句框，语义与原文结果吻合者即为正确项。

  6. 第 6 段 定位词 curiosity a cost

    What does the author suggest about curiosity?

    • A It is beneficial only when it is genetically inherited.
    • B It may come with a cost.
    • C It always leads to personal failure.
    • D It should be discouraged in young children.
    • E It has no connection with learning.
    • F It affects only non-human animals.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：B

    正确项直接对应 curiosity often comes with a cost，并用 may 保留非绝对的语气。障碍在于 cost 并不只表示金钱，也可以概括探索伴随的损失、失败或风险；同时 often 不能被理解为 always。

    语气标尺筛选 把 suggest about curiosity 视为“寻找评价性概括”。先用 curiosity 扫描，再以 a cost 锁定 第6段，不必先读后面的具体案例。随后用语气标尺筛选：排除 always、only、should、no 等缺乏依据的强断言，保留与原文力度相匹配的正确项。

  7. 第 7 段 定位词 study learning to walk

    What did the study of children learning to walk find?

    • A They learned to walk before they learned to crawl.
    • B They fell down twelve to nineteen times per hour.
    • C They fell down seventeen times per hour.
    • D They walked more slowly than they crawled.
    • E They avoided walking because it involved frequent failure.
    • F They became less interested in standing upright.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：C

    正确项准确复现研究记录的核心事实：fell down 与 seventeen times per hour。障碍在于数字句被单独的短句 Seventeen times per hour, to be exact 补充，考生需要把它与前句 these children fell down a lot 连接；此外，12- to 19-month-olds 是年龄而不是频率。

    数字四格核对 用 learning to walk 直达 第7段，随后实行“四格核对”：children、fell down、seventeen、per hour。任何选项只要有一格把年龄换成频率、把动作或比较方向换掉，立即剔除；四格全同的正确项无需再做全文推理。

  8. 第 8 段 定位词 Arctic regions tens of thousands

    What does the author say is often forgotten about the Arctic regions?

    • A The Inuit people developed no effective ways to live there.
    • B Northern climates are easier to adapt to than most places.
    • C Only a few people have ever attempted to live in the Arctic.
    • D Tens of thousands of people tried but failed to make it in those challenging landscapes.
    • E Most people in the Arctic refused to explore new ideas.
    • F All attempts to live in the Arctic ended in disaster.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：D

    正确项准确转述 tens of thousands of people that tried and failed to make it in those challenging landscapes，保留了人物数量、尝试行为和失败结果。障碍在于段首的成功事例更醒目，而真正的考点由 but 和 forget 引出；考生若只抓 Inuit people，容易误选成功适应的内容。

    转折后截取 以 Arctic regions 直达 第8段，再执行“转折后截取法”，读取 but what we forget about 之后的完整主谓信息。用 tens of thousands 核对数量，并排除把数量缩小、把部分失败扩大为全部的选项，确定正确项。

STRUCTURE · 篇章结构

8 个意群的议论文骨架

按议论文 的行文骨架切分意群，每个意群标注它覆盖的段落与对主旨的作用——逐段读完后回到这里俯瞰全篇，能看清作者为什么按这个顺序行文。

  1. 引言 P1

    好奇心的双面性与定义困境

    这个 opening paragraph 首先 acknowledge 了 curiosity 作为 driving force 推动 human development 的 positive role,但紧接着用 but 进行 contrast,指出它也可能 lead to setbacks 甚至 downfalls,最后点明 scientists 在 define curiosity 时遇到的 complexity 和 difficulty

    作为 introduction,这个 paragraph 通过 present 好奇心的 dual nature 来 establish 全文的 central tension,为后续 explore curiosity 的 benefits 和 risks 做 groundwork,同时 hint 这个 topic 的 complexity

    引出好奇心的双重属性
  2. 分论点 P2

    好奇心的定义共识与内在动机

    这个 paragraph 针对前面提到的 definition difficulty,给出了 scientific community 的 general consensus:curiosity 是某种 information gathering 的 means,并且 psychologists agree 它是 intrinsically motivated 的行为

    作为第一个 supporting point,这个 paragraph establish 了 curiosity 的 working definition,especially highlighting 它的 intrinsic motivation 这个 key characteristic,为后续 discuss 它如何 drive behavior 和 lead to risks 提供 conceptual foundation

    界定好奇心的本质特征
  3. 分论点 P3

    好奇心的遗传基础与环境互动

    这个 paragraph 从 genetic perspective 来 explore curiosity 的 origins,指出虽然 probably 不存在 single curiosity gene,但 curiosity 确实有 genetic component,并且 genes 和 environment 以 complex ways interact 来 shape 个体的 curiosity behavior

    作为第二个 supporting point,这个 paragraph 从 biological basis 角度 explain 为什么 curiosity 是 intrinsically motivated,为主旨中 genetically influenced 这个 claim provide evidence,同时 introduce gene-environment interaction 的 complexity,暗示 curiosity expression 的 variability

    揭示好奇心的生物学根源
  4. 分论点 P4

    好奇心作为婴儿学习的工具

    这个 paragraph 用 regardless of genetic makeup 来 transition,强调无论 genetic differences 如何,infants 都必须在 short time 内 learn incredible amount of information,而 curiosity 是 accomplish this gigantic task 的重要 tool

    作为第三个 supporting point,这个 paragraph shift focus 从 origins 到 functions,demonstrate 为什么 curiosity 对 human development 如此 essential,为主旨中 propelled human development 这个 claim provide functional explanation,同时为后续 discuss curiosity in action 做 preparation

    说明好奇心的适应性功能
  5. 分论点 P5

    新奇偏好作为好奇心的驱动机制

    这个 paragraph 用 hundreds of studies 的 evidence 来 support 前段的 claim,指出 infants prefer novelty,这种 preference motivates 包括 non-human animals、human infants 和 probably human adults 在内的各种 subjects 去 explore new things,直到 continued exposure 导致 interest decline

    作为第四个 supporting point,这个 paragraph provide empirical backing for curiosity 的 information-gathering function,通过 novelty preference 这个 mechanism explain 好奇心如何 actually work,为主旨中 drive for information gathering 提供 concrete manifestation

    展现好奇心驱动探索的机制
  6. 分论点 P6

    好奇心的代价引入

    这个 extremely brief paragraph 只有一句话,用 but 来 introduce 全文的 critical turn,点明 curiosity often comes with a cost,这是从 benefits discussion 转向 risks exploration 的 pivotal moment

    这个 transitional paragraph 是 argumentative structure 的 crucial hinge,它 signal 从 positive aspects (意群1-5) 转向 negative aspects (意群7-8),为主旨中 carries inherent risks 这个 dimension 的 detailed exploration prepare readers,create suspense 并 manage expectations

    提示探索的风险维度
  7. 分论点 P7

    低风险情境下好奇心的良性代价

    这个 paragraph 用 some situations 来 specify 前段的 cost concept,describe 当 stakes are low 时,failure 可以是 healthy part of growth。通过 walking babies 的 detailed example,show 尽管 infants fall seventeen times per hour,但 walking 的 benefits (faster, more to see) motivate them to persist despite costs

    作为第一个 risk example,这个 paragraph illustrate minor setbacks 这个 category,demonstrate 即使有 costs (falling),curiosity-driven exploration 依然是 worthwhile,为主旨中 ranging from minor setbacks 提供 concrete illustration,同时 establish baseline for comparison with 下一段的 disaster scenario

    例证可接受的失败成本
  8. 分论点 P8

    高风险情境下好奇心的灾难性后果

    这个 paragraph 用 sometimes however 来 create contrast,shift to 高风险 scenario where testing new ideas can lead to disaster。通过 Inuit people 的 example,point out 虽然 successful adaptations 令人 impressive,但 we forget tens of thousands 的人 tried and failed in those challenging landscapes

    作为第二个 risk example,这个 paragraph illustrate catastrophic outcomes 这个 extreme category,demonstrate curiosity-driven exploration 可能导致 fatal consequences,为主旨中 to catastrophic outcomes 提供 stark illustration,完成对 curiosity costs 的 full spectrum coverage

    例证灾难性的失败成本
MAIN IDEA · 速判主旨

4 步定位这篇文章的主旨

不读完全篇也能锁定主旨——以下 4 步按2021年12月英语四级真题第1套 这篇原文的实际行文顺序给出，每步说明看哪里、看出什么，可直接迁移到其他英语四级文章。

  1. 首段双面性框架 P1

    议论文的 opening paragraph 通常会 establish the topic 并 hint at the thesis，这里的 'but' 转折词 signals 作者要呈现 curiosity 的 two-sided nature，这个 contrast 正是文章 main argument 的 foundation。

  2. 中段转折点识别 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6

    议论文的 structural pivot 常出现在 mid-article，通过 adversative conjunction 引入 counterpoint 或 complication。这个 transition 将文章从 'what curiosity is' 转向 'what price it demands'，正好对应主旨中的 'carries inherent risks' 这个 critical component。

  3. 梯度例证解析 P7 P8

    议论文常用 concrete examples 来 substantiate abstract claims，这里的 two-tiered examples 不是随意的，而是精心设计的 spectrum demonstration。通过 'stakes are low' vs 'lead to disaster' 的对比，作者 reinforces 主旨中 curiosity 的 double-edged nature 和 varying consequences。

  4. 三段式结构整合 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8

    议论文主旨通常是 multi-faceted，需要整合全文的 different argumentative layers。这篇文章的主旨包含 definition（intrinsically motivated drive）、function（propelled development）、和 caveat（carries risks），分别对应文章的 three structural blocks，这种 parallelism 是判断主旨 accuracy 的重要依据。

主旨信号词 driving force P1 dangerous P1 intrinsically motivated P2 genetic component P3 cost P6 disaster P8

MAIN IDEA · 主旨

这篇文章在说什么

好奇心是一种受基因影响、内在驱动的信息收集动力,推动了人类的发展。尽管好奇心对学习和探索至关重要,但它也伴随着固有风险,因为尝试新行为或想法可能导致从轻微挫折到灾难性后果的各种失败。
Curiosity is a genetically influenced, intrinsically motivated drive for information gathering that has propelled human development. While essential for learning and exploration, curiosity carries inherent risks, as attempting new behaviors or ideas can result in failures ranging from minor setbacks to catastrophic outcomes.
WORD INFERENCE · 生词推断

6 个生词的上下文推断

不查词典，只用文中线索推出词义——每个词给出推断出的释义与 完整推理链。已收录进英语四级高频真题词集的单词可点击进入词条页。

  • pin down 确定、明确(定义)

    我们先从 contextual clue 入手:第1段 说 defining curiosity 很难,第2段 用 While 转折说 pinning down a definition 也很难,两句的 semantic structure 完全平行。再看 collocation:pin down 后面接 definition,这种搭配暗示一个'确定、明确'类的动作。最后从 morphology 角度,pin down 这个 phrasal verb 本身就有'把...固定、确定'的含义。三条线索汇聚,指向同一个结论。

    短语动词的三维定位法
  • intrinsically 内在地、本质上

    从 syntax 角度,intrinsically 作为 adverb 修饰 motivated,说明 motivation 的 manner。从 discourse 角度,这一句是对 curiosity 的 essential characteristic 的界定,与前面 what it is 形成互补,因此应该描述的是 inherent quality。两条线索形成 convergent evidence。

    副词的功能-语境两步法
  • genetic 基因的、遗传的

    首先从 lexical cohesion 看,genetic 和 gene 在同一段落形成 word family,这是最直接的线索。其次从 discourse structure 看,第3段 在讨论 nature vs. nurture,gene 代表 biological factor,genetic 作为 modifier 应该表示'基因的'。两重证据指向同一结论。

    科学术语的词族-论域策略
  • novelty 新颖性、新鲜感

    从 discourse cohesion 看,novelty 和 new things 通过 anaphoric reference 形成 synonymy。从 logical structure 看,novelty 引起 exploration,而 continued exposure 降低 interest,这种 contrast 说明 novelty 指的是'新鲜、未接触过'的 quality。两条路径汇聚。

    抽象名词的释义-对比法
  • proficient 熟练的、精通的

    从 adversative structure 看,but 前描述 babies 已经是 proficient crawlers,但还要尝试 walking,这说明 proficient 表示已经掌握得很好。从 lexical correspondence 看,proficient crawlers 和 expert crawlers 指代相同,证实 proficient = expert。从 modification pattern 看,perfectly 的搭配进一步确认 positive skill level。三方面证据一致。

    技能词汇的逻辑-近义-修饰三角法
  • milestone 里程碑、重要阶段

    从 reference 看,this milestone 指代 learning to walk 这个 developmental event。从 domain knowledge 看,第7段 讨论 infant motor development,walking 是 significant stage。两条线索共同指向'重要阶段、里程碑'这个意思。

    发展词汇的指代-领域法
RHETORIC · 修辞手法

9 处修辞手法与仿写

每处修辞给出它在本文的具体用法、同类信号词清单与一份可直接套用的 写作仿写建议——读完能认，也能写。

  • 对比论证

    P1 P6

    作者在 第1段 和 第6段 形成了 stark contrast，先强调 curiosity 是 driving force behind successful development，然后用 but 转折指出 curiosity comes with a cost。这种 juxtaposition 让读者意识到好奇心既是 propeller 又是 potential hazard，perfectly 呼应了主旨中 curiosity 的 dual nature——既 essential 又 risky。通过这种 contrasting perspectives，作者 establish 了文章的 central tension。

    信号词 but however yet while whereas on the contrary in contrast conversely nevertheless nonetheless

    仿写： 当你要 argue 某个事物具有 double-edged nature 时,可以先 present its positive aspect，然后用 however/but 等 adversative conjunction 引出 negative side。比如讨论 technology 时，可以写：Technology revolutionizes our daily life, but it also brings privacy concerns. 仿写模版：【A 的正面价值】，but/however 【A 的负面影响或风险】。

  • 举例论证

    P7

    作者在 第7段 用 learning to walk 这个 concrete example 来 illustrate curiosity's cost 在 low-stakes situations 中的 manifestation。Specific data like "17 times per hour" 让 abstract concept of risk 变得 tangible and relatable。这个 example 服务于主旨中 failures ranging from minor setbacks 的部分，demonstrate 了即使是 healthy growth 过程也 involves inevitable failures。

    信号词 for instance for example such as take... for example consider a case in point to illustrate specifically namely

    仿写： 当你 make a general claim 后，immediately 引入 a specific case 来 substantiate it。Use phrases like "for instance/for example" 来 introduce examples。Include concrete details like numbers, names, or specific scenarios 来 enhance credibility。仿写模版：【抽象观点】。For instance, 【具体例子 + 详细细节】。This 【例子如何支撑观点】。

  • 举例论证

    P8

    在 第8段 中，作者 present 了 Inuit people 的 example 来 illustrate curiosity 可能 lead to disaster。这个 example 与 第7段 形成 escalating pattern——从 minor setbacks (falling while learning to walk) 升级到 catastrophic outcomes (tens of thousands failed in Arctic)。这 perfectly 对应主旨里 failures ranging from minor setbacks to catastrophic outcomes 的 spectrum，showing curiosity's cost 在 high-stakes situations 中的 severity。

    信号词 for instance for example such as take... for example consider a case in point to illustrate specifically namely

    仿写： 选择 examples 时要 consider their illustrative power 和 relevance。对于 serious consequences，use examples with dramatic impact。可以用 historical cases 或 real-world scenarios 来 show extreme outcomes。仿写模版：Sometimes, however, 【行为/情况】 can lead to 【严重后果】。For instance, 【具体案例】，but 【失败的案例和数据】。

  • 因果论证

    P7

    第7段 中的 "But walking is faster than crawling, so this motivates expert crawlers to transition to walking" 清晰展现了 causal relationship。这个 cause-effect logic 解释了 why infants persist despite falling——speed advantage (cause) motivates the transition (effect)。这 support 了主旨中 curiosity 作为 intrinsically motivated drive 的 idea，showing 即使有 setbacks，potential benefits 仍然 drive exploration behavior。

    信号词 so therefore thus hence consequently as a result because since due to leads to causes results in

    仿写： 建立 causal connection 时要 make the logic explicit。Use causal connectors like so/therefore/thus 来 link cause and effect。Ensure the causality is reasonable and supported。仿写模版：【原因/条件】，so/therefore/thus 【结果/影响】。Or: Because 【原因】，【结果】。

  • 引用论证

    P5

    第5段 的 "Hundreds of studies show that infants prefer novelty" 引用了 empirical research 来 support the claim。虽然不是 direct quote，但 referring to "hundreds of studies" 就是 appeal to authority and evidence。这 strengthens 了 curiosity 作为 intrinsic motivation 的 argument，通过 scientific consensus 来 add credibility。这种 evidence-based approach 让主旨中 curiosity 是 genetically influenced drive 的 claim 更加 convincing。

    信号词 studies show research indicates according to evidence suggests experts argue data reveals scholars point out scientists have found as noted by

    仿写： 引用时要 specify the source type (studies/experts/data) 来 establish credibility。可以用 quantifiers like "hundreds of/numerous/many" 来 show breadth of support。仿写模版：【Research/Studies/Experts】 show/indicate/suggest that 【观点】。或：According to 【来源】，【观点】。记得要 connect citation back to your main argument。

  • 引用论证

    P2

    第2段 中 "Psychologists also agree curiosity is intrinsically motivated" 和 "the general consensus is" 都是 appeal to expert opinion and scholarly agreement。这些 references to professional consensus 为 curiosity 的 definition 和 characteristics 提供 authoritative support。通过 invoke the agreement of psychologists，author 让主旨中 intrinsically motivated drive 的 characterization 更有 scientific backing。

    信号词 agree consensus according to experts say scholars maintain research shows evidence suggests studies indicate scientists have found

    仿写： 当 cite consensus 时，specify who agrees (experts/scholars/researchers in the field)。Use phrases like "agree/consensus" 来 show widespread acceptance。仿写模版：【专家群体】 agree/consensus is that 【观点】。这种 appeal to collective expert opinion 比 individual citation 更显 robustness。

  • 比喻修辞

    P1

    第1段 中 "The human thirst for knowledge" 用 thirst (生理需求) 来 metaphorically describe 对 knowledge 的 desire。这个 metaphor 把 abstract intellectual drive 比作 concrete physical need，暗示 curiosity 像 thirst 一样是 fundamental and compelling。这 elegantly 呼应主旨中 curiosity 是 intrinsically motivated 的 idea——就像 thirst 是 innate biological drive，curiosity 也是 inherent human trait。

    仿写： Create metaphors 时要 choose familiar concrete things 来 represent abstract concepts。Think about shared characteristics between tenor and vehicle。仿写模版：【抽象概念】 is 【具体事物】。或直接用 possessive structure: the 【具体事物】 of 【抽象概念】。比如：the hunger for success, the journey of learning。确保 metaphor 和你的 argument naturally align。

  • 比喻修辞

    P1

    第1段 中 "driving force" 把 curiosity 比作 mechanical power 或 physical force，suggesting 它 propels human development forward。这个 metaphor 强调了 curiosity 的 dynamic and propulsive nature，与主旨中 curiosity 作为 drive 的 characterization perfectly align。Physical force imagery makes the abstract concept of motivation tangible。

    仿写： 用 force/power/engine metaphors 来 describe motivational factors。这类 mechanical imagery 特别 effective for conveying dynamic processes。仿写模版：【抽象动机/因素】 is the driving force/engine/catalyst behind 【结果/发展】。这种 structure 清晰展示 causal relationship 和 motivational power。

  • 比喻修辞

    P4

    第4段 中 "curiosity is one of the tools" 把 curiosity 比作 tool/instrument，suggesting 它是 humans 用来 accomplish learning 这个 gigantic task 的 means。这个 metaphor 强调了 curiosity 的 functional and instrumental value，呼应主旨中 curiosity 作为 mechanism for information gathering 和 learning 的 idea。Tool imagery 凸显其 practical utility。

    仿写： 用 tool/instrument metaphors 来 describe methods 或 capabilities。这类 imagery 强调 functionality and purposefulness。仿写模版：【能力/特质】 is a tool/instrument for 【目的/任务】。或：【群体】 have found 【方法/特质】 as a tool to 【动词短语】。这种 framing 突出 practical application。

IMPLIED MEANING · 言外之意

8 处话里有话

作者没有明说、但靠信号词传递出来的态度与暗示——每处给出原文片段、信号词类型与解读。

  • 好奇心定义的困难暗示其复杂性

    P1
    But curiosity can also be dangerous, leading to setbacks or even downfalls. Given curiosity's complexity, scientists have found it hard to define.

    转折类 but however yet nevertheless nonetheless though although

    表面上作者在说 curiosity 可以 dangerous,但 implicit message 是:好奇心并非 purely positive quality,它有 double-edged nature。这个 implication 为整篇文章的 thesis 奠定基础,暗示后文会 explore both benefits and costs。对 main argument 的 value 在于:它 complicate 了对好奇心的 naive understanding,为后续 balanced analysis 做 groundwork。

  • 定义困难与共识形成的矛盾

    P2
    While pinning down a definition has proven tricky, the general consensus is it's some means of information gathering.

    让步类 While while although though even though despite in spite of

    这个 implication 是:虽然 definition 仍有 controversy,但 scientific community 已经取得 partial understanding。言外之意在于作者 downplay 定义的 difficulty,强调 functional consensus 的存在。对 main argument 的 contribution 是:它 justify 后续 discussion,暗示尽管概念 complex,我们仍能 meaningfully analyze curiosity 的 mechanisms and effects。

  • 基因非唯一但仍重要的双重暗示

    P3
    Curiosity covers such a large set of behaviors that there probably isn't any single 'curiosity gene' that makes humans wonder about and explore their environment. That said, curiosity does have a genetic component.

    转折类 That said that said that being said having said that be that as it may even so all the same

    这个 implication 传达:基因的 role 是 real but complex,不是 deterministic。言外之意在于作者平衡 genetic determinism 和 environmental influence,暗示 nature-nurture interaction。对文章 thesis 的 value 是:它建立 biological foundation 同时避免 oversimplification,为后续讨论 curiosity 的 costs and benefits 提供 nuanced biological context。

  • 婴儿学习任务的巨大性暗示好奇心的必要性

    P4
    infants have to learn an incredible amount of information in a short time, and curiosity is one of the tools humans have found to accomplish that gigantic task.

    强调类情态词 incredible gigantic enormous tremendous remarkable extraordinary substantial

    这个 implication 是:好奇心不是 optional luxury,而是 evolutionary necessity。言外之意在于:如此 daunting task 需要 powerful mechanism,暗示好奇心的 adaptive value。对 thesis 的 contribution 是:它 justify 为什么好奇心值得 close examination,并为后续讨论 cost-benefit trade-off 建立 context:既然好奇心如此 essential,我们需要理解它的 risks。

  • 新奇偏好的普遍性暗示基本驱动机制

    P5
    Hundreds of studies show that infants prefer novelty. It's what motivates non-human animals, human infants and probably human adults to explore and seek out new things

    数量强调类 Hundreds of studies hundreds of studies numerous studies extensive research substantial evidence overwhelming data countless experiments

    这个 implication 传达:新奇偏好是 evolutionarily ancient and deeply rooted drive,不是 learned behavior。言外之意是好奇心有 biological substrate,跨越 species boundaries。对 main argument 的 value 在于:它强化好奇心的 innate nature,为后续讨论 inherent risks 铺垫:如果好奇心如此 fundamental,那么它的 costs 也可能是 unavoidable trade-off。

  • 简短句式的转折暗示重要警示

    P6
    But curiosity often comes with a cost.

    转折类 But However Yet Still Nevertheless

    这个 implication 是:前文的 positive portrayal 需要 fundamental qualification。言外之意在于作者 shift focus 从好奇心的 benefits 到它的 dangers,呼应开篇的 double-edged nature。对 thesis 的 critical role 是:它是文章的 structural hinge,从 explaining what curiosity is 转向 examining what it costs。这个 transition 让整个 argument 从 descriptive 变为 evaluative。

  • 低风险例子暗示存在高风险情况

    P7
    In some situations, the stakes are low and failure is a healthy part of growth.

    范围限制类 In some situations in some situations in certain cases sometimes under some circumstances in particular contexts to some extent

    这个 implication 是:好奇心的 costs 有 spectrum,这个 paragraph 只涵盖 mild end。言外之意是作者在建立 contrast framework,用 acceptable risks 作为 baseline 来突出后续的 unacceptable risks。对 argument 的 strategic value 是:它 soften 读者对 cost 的 immediate reaction,然后在下一段 deliver more sobering reality。这种 graduated presentation 增强 persuasive impact。

  • 成功案例背后隐藏的失败群体

    P8
    the Inuit people of the Arctic regions have created incredible modes to deal with the challenges of living in northern climates, but what we forget about are the tens of thousands of people that tried and failed to make it in those challenging landscapes.

    对比+遗漏提示类 but what we forget what we forget what we overlook what is often ignored what remains unseen the hidden side what gets left out

    这个 implication 是:好奇心驱动的 exploration 可以导致 irreversible disaster,不仅是 minor setbacks。言外之意是 selection bias 让我们只看到 survivors,忽略 casualties。对 thesis 的 crucial contribution 是:它将 cost 从 acceptable trade-off 升级为 existential threat,完成文章从 balanced view 到 sobering reality 的 argumentative arc。这个 extreme example 强化开篇的 downfall 警示。

AUTHOR ATTITUDE · 作者态度

作者态度：客观中立

结论先行：本文作者态度为客观中立（ cautiously balanced appreciation）。下面是按步骤还原的判断过程与文中的态度信号词。

  1. 首段转折定基调 P1

    议论文的 opening 往往会 establish 作者的 basic position，如果出现了 but curiosity can also be dangerous 这样的转折，就说明作者不是 one-sided 的态度，而是要 present both sides。

  2. 段落过渡显结构 P6 P7 P8

    议论文用 段首句 来 guide readers through different aspects。这篇文章用了 'But curiosity often comes with a cost' 这样的 transition 来 shift focus，说明作者在系统地 explore different angles，而不是 pushing 单一观点。

  3. 限定词显谨慎度 P3 P5

    议论文中的 cautious language 反映作者的 nuanced thinking。这篇文章用了 'probably isn't any single gene'、'curiosity does have a genetic component' 这样的表达，showing 作者在 acknowledging uncertainty，而不是 making absolute claims。

  4. 正反例证显全面 P7 P8

    议论文通过 examples 来 support claims。这篇文章给出了 babies learning to walk 和 Inuit survival 两个 contrasting examples，一个显示 low-stakes benefits，另一个显示 high-stakes dangers，说明作者在 demonstrating the spectrum 而不是 cherry-picking evidence。

  5. 全文一致性验证 P1 P6 P8

    议论文的 overall tone 需要通过 cumulative evidence 来确认。这篇文章从头到尾 consistently acknowledges both 'driving force behind successful development' 和 'can lead to disaster'，没有 shift toward 任何 extreme position，证实了 balanced appreciation 的态度。

文中的态度信号词

  • But P1

    这个 'But' 在开篇就 introduce 了一个 contrasting perspective，telling readers 作者不会 simply celebrate 好奇心，而是要 present its downsides。这种 immediate qualification 是 balanced argumentation 的 signal。

    同类词 However Yet Nevertheless Nonetheless On the other hand

  • also P1

    这个 'also' 在 'can also be dangerous' 中起到 additive function，showing 作者在 adding 一个 dimension 而不是 replacing 前面的观点。它暗示 coexistence of multiple truths。

    同类词 as well too in addition moreover furthermore

  • probably P3

    这个 'probably' 在 'probably isn't any single gene' 中 soften 作者的 claim，showing intellectual humility。它 signals 作者 acknowledging 当前知识的 limitations，而不是 presenting definitive conclusions。

    同类词 likely possibly perhaps maybe seemingly

  • some P2

    这个 'some means' 在 describing 好奇心时用了 vague quantifier，avoiding absolute definitions。它 tells us 作者在 acknowledging definitional flexibility，而不是 imposing rigid categories。

    同类词 certain particular specific a number of several

  • often P6

    这个 'often comes with a cost' 用 frequency adverb 来 moderate 这个 claim，suggesting it's not universal。它 implies 有些情况下 curiosity doesn't have costs，maintaining nuance。

    同类词 sometimes occasionally frequently typically generally

  • however P8

    这个 'however' 在 'Sometimes, however, testing out a new idea can lead to disaster' 中 introduce 一个 more serious consequence，escalating from mild costs to disasters。它 structures 一个 graduated argument。

    同类词 but yet still though although

  • For instance P7

    这个 'For instance' introduce 一个 concrete example 来 support the claim about costs。它 signals 作者在 grounding abstract claims in evidence，showing analytical rigor。

    同类词 For example Such as Like Namely In particular

  • Sometimes P8

    这个 'Sometimes' 在 'Sometimes, however, testing out a new idea can lead to disaster' 中 qualify 这个 negative outcome 为 non-universal，maintaining balance even when presenting dangers。

    同类词 At times Occasionally On occasion Now and then From time to time

GENRE · 速判体裁

30 秒判定这是一篇议论文

体裁决定读法与出题套路。以下判断步骤与标志词全部以本文为例，可直接迁移到其他英语四级 真题文章。

如何快速判断这是一篇议论文？

  1. 开头抛出争议观点 P1

    第1段 中作者提出 'curiosity can also be dangerous, leading to setbacks or even downfalls',这是一个需要通过 evidence 和 reasoning 来支撑的 viewpoint,而非客观描述。说明文会直接介绍 what curiosity is,新闻报道会聚焦 specific events,但议论文会抛出一个 arguable position。

  2. 逻辑递进的论证链 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8

    第3段 到 第8段 呈现清晰的 argumentative progression:先从 genetic and environmental factors 解释 curiosity 的 complexity (第3段-4),再用 novelty preference 作为 supporting evidence (第5段),最后通过 cost-benefit analysis 和 concrete examples 论证 'curiosity comes with a cost' (第6段-8)。这种层层递进的 structure 是议论文的标志,说明文会用 parallel sections 介绍不同 aspects,新闻报道会按 time sequence 或 importance 排列 information。

  3. 例证为论点服务 P7 P8

    第7段 中 toddlers learning to walk 的 example 和 第8段 中 Inuit people 的 example 都不是为了 inform readers about these facts,而是用来 support 'curiosity has costs' 这一 argument。前者说明 low-stakes failure,后者说明 high-stakes disaster。这种 purposeful use of examples 是议论文特征,说明文的 examples 会更 neutral 和 comprehensive,新闻报道的 examples 会是 recent events 且包含 specific details like dates and names。

  4. 论点统领全文 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8

    本文从 第1段 的 'curiosity is complex and can be dangerous' 这一 thesis 出发,通过 第2段-5 解释 what drives curiosity,再通过 第6段-8 论证 its costs,形成完整的 argumentative arc。整体 structure 是 thesis → explanation → argumentation,而非 topic → subtopics (说明文) 或 lead → details (新闻报道)。文章没有试图 exhaustively explain curiosity 的所有 aspects,而是选择性地聚焦 cost dimension 来 build argument。

哪些词暴露了议论文体裁？

  • But P1 转折论证逻辑词 but however yet nevertheless nonetheless
  • Given P1 因果论证逻辑词 given because since as due to
  • agree P2 学术观点表态词 argue claim assert maintain contend
  • probably P3 推测性立场表态词 perhaps possibly may might could
  • Regardless of P4 让步转折论证词 regardless of despite in spite of although even though
  • But curiosity often comes with a cost P6 观点转换过渡句 but... comes with a cost the question remains the problem is this raises the issue a key concern is
  • For instance P7 举例论证支撑词 for instance for example such as to illustrate as an illustration
  • however P8 递进转折论证词 but yet still on the other hand by contrast
SENTENCE INSIGHTS · 句子精讲

12 句真题句逐层精讲

下列真题句各有独立的句子解析页——中文翻译、结构树逐层拆解、成分与时态、考点讲解与真题高频词。点击句子进入完整解析。

FAQ · 常见问题

关于 《人类为何如此好奇?》 的常见问题

2021年12月英语四级真题第1套 Part III Section C (2) 文章 Why are humans so curious? 的原文出自哪里？
2021年12月英语四级真题第1套 Part III Section C (2) 文章 Why are humans so curious? 选自2020年7月 19 日刊登在 www.livescience.com(生活科学网站)上的一篇标题为“Why are humans so curious?”(《人类为何如此好奇?》)的文章。
2021年12月英语四级真题第1套文章《人类为何如此好奇?》的主旨是什么？
好奇心是一种受基因影响、内在驱动的信息收集动力,推动了人类的发展。尽管好奇心对学习和探索至关重要,但它也伴随着固有风险,因为尝试新行为或想法可能导致从轻微挫折到灾难性后果的各种失败。（英文表述：Curiosity is a genetically influenced, intrinsically motivated drive for information gathering that has propelled human development. While essential for learning and exploration, curiosity carries inherent risks, as attempting new behaviors or ideas can result in failures ranging from minor setbacks to catastrophic outcomes.）
Why are humans so curious?（2021年12月英语四级真题第1套文章）是什么体裁？难度如何？
体裁为议论文，作者立场是客观中立（cautiously balanced appreciation）。CEFR 难度 C1，全文 335 词、8 段；在英语四级全部 511 篇真题文章中，C1 级共 163 篇（占 32%）。
2021年12月英语四级真题第1套文章《人类为何如此好奇?》的篇章结构是怎样的？
全文 8 段按议论文骨架分为 8 个意群：引言 · 第1段——好奇心的双面性与定义困境；分论点 · 第2段——好奇心的定义共识与内在动机；分论点 · 第3段——好奇心的遗传基础与环境互动；分论点 · 第4段——好奇心作为婴儿学习的工具；分论点 · 第5段——新奇偏好作为好奇心的驱动机制；分论点 · 第6段——好奇心的代价引入；分论点 · 第7段——低风险情境下好奇心的良性代价；分论点 · 第8段——高风险情境下好奇心的灾难性后果。
Why are humans so curious? 一文的作者态度是什么？
作者态度是客观中立（cautiously balanced appreciation）。判断路径：首段转折定基调 → 段落过渡显结构 → 限定词显谨慎度 → 正反例证显全面 → 全文一致性验证；文中的态度信号词包括 But（第1段）、also（第1段）、probably（第3段）、some（第2段）、often（第6段）、however（第8段）、For instance（第7段）、Sometimes（第8段）。
2021年12月英语四级真题第1套文章 Why are humans so curious? 中有哪些值得积累的生词？
按文中出现顺序共 6 个：pin down（确定、明确(定义)）、intrinsically（内在地、本质上）、genetic（基因的、遗传的）、novelty（新颖性、新鲜感）、proficient（熟练的、精通的）、milestone（里程碑、重要阶段），每个词的词义都可以由文中上下文线索推断得出。

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