懒笔记
2013年考研英语一真题 Section II Part A (2) Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track
Postgraduate · 来自 2013年考研英语一真题 · Section II Part A (2) · 阅读理解（四选一）

Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track

2013年考研英语一真题文章逐层精读

The Economist《经济学人》2012 年6月9日一篇题为 Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track（微软与隐私∶信息追踪的改变）的文章，该文副标题为 Data on People's Online Behaviour Are Worth Both Paying for and Arguing over（用户在线行为数据不仅值得为之付出代价，也值得为之据理力争）。

本页是 2013年考研英语一真题 Section II Part A (2) 文章的精读视角页——这篇新闻报道全文 436 词、7 段，CEFR 难度 C1（C1 级在考研英语一文章中占 90%），作者立场为「消极批判」；英文原文之外，本篇已有的 11 项精读维度逐项展开，其中能迁移到其他考研英语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

7 段英文原文

以下为2013年考研英语一真题 Section II Part A (2) 的阅读理解（四选一）原文，共 7 段。左侧 P1–P7 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。

Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track

An old saying has it that half of all advertising budgets are wasted – the trouble is, no one knows which half. In the internet age, at least in theory, this fraction can be much reduced. By watching what people search for, click on and say online, companies can aim "behavioural" ads at those most likely to buy.

In the past couple of weeks a quarrel has illustrated the value to advertisers of such fine-grained information: Should advertisers assume that people are happy to be tracked and sent behavioural ads? Or should they have explicit permission?

In December 2010 America's Federal Trade Commission (FTC) proposed adding a "do not track" (DNT) option to internet browsers, so that users could tell advertisers that they did not want to be followed. Microsoft's Internet Explorer and Apple's Safari both offer DNT; Google's Chrome is due to do so this year. In February the FTC and the Digital Advertising Alliance (DAA) agreed that the industry would get cracking on responding to DNT requests.

On May 31st Microsoft set off the row. It said that Internet Explorer 10, the version due to appear with Windows 8, would have DNT as a default.

Advertisers are horrified. Human nature being what it is, most people stick with default settings. Few switch DNT on now, but if tracking is off it will stay off. Bob Liodice, the chief executive of the Association of National Advertisers, says consumers will be worse off if the industry cannot collect information about their preferences. People will not get fewer ads, he says. "They'll get less meaningful, less targeted ads."

It is not yet clear how advertisers will respond. Getting a DNT signal does not oblige anyone to stop tracking, although some companies have promised to do so. Unable to tell whether someone really objects to behavioural ads or whether they are sticking with Microsoft's default, some may ignore a DNT signal and press on anyway.

Also unclear is why Microsoft has gone it alone. After all, it has an ad business too, which it says will comply with DNT requests, though it is still working out how. If it is trying to upset Google, which relies almost wholly on advertising, it has chosen an indirect method: there is no guarantee that DNT by default will become the norm. DNT does not seem an obviously huge selling point for windows 8 – though the firm has compared some of its other products favourably with Google's on that count before. Brendon Lynch, Microsoft's chief privacy officer, blogged: "We believe consumers should have more control." Could it really be that simple?

PARAGRAPHS · 逐段精读

7 段逐段主旨与解读

逐段拆解2013年考研英语一真题 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 Promise of Behavioural Advertising

    Behavioural advertising uses online tracking to reduce wasted advertising and target likely buyers.

    本段为全文提供了必要的 economic rationale：广告商之所以重视 tracking，是因为它能提升 ad relevance 和投放效率。没有这一层铺垫，后文广告商对 DNT default 的强烈反对就会显得缺乏逻辑基础。

    先铺效益背景
  2. P2

    The Consent Debate

    The controversy concerns whether users must explicitly consent to behavioural tracking.

    本段承上启下：它承接前文 behavioural ads 的商业价值，同时正式引出全文的 central debate。文章主旨中的 opt-in or opt-out，正是由本段的 assume 与 explicit permission 所概括出来的。

    抓住二选一问句
  3. P3

    The Rise of Do Not Track

    Regulators, browsers and the advertising industry began developing responses to Do Not Track requests.

    本段交代了争议发生前的 policy background，说明 DNT 并非微软凭空制造的新概念。它也为后文微软将 DNT 设为 default 埋下伏笔：真正有争议的不是是否提供 DNT，而是默认设置为何。

    串联多方行动
  4. P4

    Microsoft Sets DNT by Default

    Microsoft triggered the dispute by making Do Not Track the default setting in Internet Explorer 10.

    本段是全文的 turning point，也是文章主旨的直接来源。微软的 default decision 将抽象的 tracking consent debate，转化为广告商必须立即面对的商业和技术问题。

    锁定事件触发点
  5. P5

    Advertisers' Objection to Default DNT

    Advertisers fear that default DNT will limit tracking and make advertising less relevant to consumers.

    本段具体呈现了文章主旨中的 advertiser controversy，并说明广告商为何依赖 behavioral tracking。它使争议不再只是 privacy versus business 的标签对立，而展示了广告商以 consumer relevance 为名提出的反驳。

    还原反对方因果链
  6. P6

    The Enforcement Problem of Default DNT

    Because DNT is not binding and default settings obscure user intent, some advertisers may ignore DNT requests.

    本段深化了文章主旨：争论并不止于用户应 opt in 还是 opt out，还涉及 DNT request 是否会被真正遵守。它指出微软的 default choice 甚至可能因意图不明而削弱 DNT 的实际效果。

    抓执行漏洞
  7. P7

    Questioning Microsoft's Motives

    Microsoft's reasons for default DNT are uncertain, despite its claim that the move gives consumers more control.

    本段从广告商反应转向微软自身的 strategic motive，使报道保持多方视角。它以开放式质疑收束全文，表明 default DNT 背后既有 privacy control 的公开理由，也可能存在尚未明说的 competitive calculation。

    区分声明与质疑
SELF CHECK · 段落自检题

7 道逐段细节自检题

针对2013年考研英语一真题这篇原文，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 online data reduce waste

    How can online data help companies reduce waste in advertising budgets?

    • A By cutting advertising budgets equally across all media.
    • B By requiring every internet user to accept behavioural ads.
    • C By using people's searches, clicks and online comments to target ads at likely buyers.
    • D By replacing online advertising with conventional advertising.
    • E By sending the same advertisement to all people who search online.
    • F By preventing users from posting comments about products.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：C

    该项完整保留了原文的证据链：people's searches, clicks and online comments 对应可观察的 behaviour，target ads at likely buyers 对应 companies 的行动与目的。它没有把 can 扩大成必然，也没有新增 privacy 判断。命题障碍是把多个原文动词并列后概括为 target，考生须识别这是同义整合而非无依据推断。

    行为到买家的闭环 时间紧张时，先抓题干的结果词 reduce waste，而非从头阅读所有 online 信息；它在 第1段 可由 wasted budgets 反向命中。随后执行“动词链扫描”：只看各选项是否同时含有数据行为和 target 的落点。具备“行为数据 -> likely buyers”闭环的正确项可立即胜出，无须逐字翻译所有选项。

  2. 第 2 段 定位词 recent dispute behavioural advertising

    What issue lies at the heart of the recent dispute over behavioural advertising?

    • A Whether behavioural ads are more profitable than traditional ads.
    • B Whether users should pay to avoid all online advertisements.
    • C Whether browsers can technically block advertising content.
    • D Whether advertisers need users' explicit permission before tracking them for behavioural ads.
    • E Whether companies should disclose their advertising budgets.
    • F Whether users prefer fewer advertisements to more targeted ones.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：D

    该项抓住 Or should they have explicit permission 这一争点，并保留 tracking them for behavioural ads 的目的语境。whether 将原文的两种疑问压缩为一个是非争议，符合新闻标题式概括。障碍在于第一种立场是 assume people are happy，而正确项用 need permission 概括其对立面，考生须理解二者的逻辑冲突。

    问号里的对立轴 直接用题干的 heart of dispute 反查文中的标点结构：在 第2段 寻找问号和 Or，而不必通读解释性句子。将两个问句抽成“默认同意 / 明确授权”的二选一，再选唯一覆盖授权问题的正确项。此法把长句阅读压缩为辨认对立轴。

  3. 第 3 段 定位词 FTC initially propose

    What did the FTC initially propose concerning internet browsers?

    • A Requiring advertisers to stop tracking every user immediately.
    • B Creating a common advertising alliance led by browser makers.
    • C Making DNT the default setting in all browsers.
    • D Allowing advertisers to decide which users may use DNT.
    • E Adding a do-not-track option that would let users tell advertisers not to follow them.
    • F Replacing Safari and Internet Explorer with Chrome.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：E

    该项准确复述 proposed adding a DNT option，并保留其功能：users could tell advertisers they did not want to be followed。它没有把 proposal 写成强制义务，也没有误称为广告屏蔽。障碍是将缩写 DNT 展开并把 followed 释义为 tracking，属于忠实同义改写。

    首个时间钉 优先扫描 第3段 的时间词：December 2010 和 In February。题干 initially 会把答案锁死在第一个时间节点。随后只做“谓语替换核验”，即检查正确项的 adding 是否对上 proposed adding、功能是否对上 tell advertisers；无需处理后续浏览器名单。

  4. 第 4 段 定位词 Microsoft triggered the row

    What action triggered the row involving Microsoft in late May?

    • A It removed DNT from Internet Explorer 10 before Windows 8 was released.
    • B It required users to turn DNT on manually in every browser.
    • C It persuaded the FTC to abandon the DNT proposal.
    • D It promised advertisers access to more consumer data.
    • E It launched Windows 8 with a new advertising platform.
    • F It announced that Internet Explorer 10 would have DNT turned on by default.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：F

    该项保留 Microsoft said、Internet Explorer 10、DNT 和 as a default 四个事实支点。turned on by default 是 have DNT as a default 的自然改写，且用 announced 合理概括 said。障碍在于 IE10 和 Windows 8 同时出现，考生不能把产品搭载关系误读为 Windows 8 本身的默认设置。

    默认状态反筛 从 late May 直接跳到 第4段 的 On May 31st，锁住一句新闻硬事实。随后用“default 反义筛除”：含 manually 或 removed 的选项立刻排除；再确认正确项同时有 IE10 与 DNT。该法以一个状态词淘汰大部分干扰项。

  5. 第 5 段 定位词 Bob Liodice worse off

    Why does Bob Liodice believe consumers may be worse off if DNT becomes the default?

    • A Because advertisers would have less information to make ads meaningful and well targeted.
    • B Because consumers would no longer receive any advertisements online.
    • C Because browsers would charge consumers for using DNT.
    • D Because Microsoft would stop selling Windows 8 to DNT users.
    • E Because consumers would have to provide more personal preferences.
    • F Because DNT would make advertisements more frequent and more targeted.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：A

    该项把 cannot collect information about preferences 与 less meaningful, less targeted ads 连成因果。well targeted 是 less targeted 的反向正面表述，但仍忠实于原意；它没有误称广告数量下降。命题障碍是原文将原因置于人物转述中、结论置于直接引语中，考生需跨句整合。

    数量质量分栏 用 Bob Liodice 在 第5段 秒定位后，不必逐句翻译。只读取其引语中的否定对：not fewer ads 对 less meaningful, less targeted ads。将选项按“数量”与“质量”二分，所有谈 no ads 或 frequency 的选项先删；唯一解释质量下降的正确项即成立。

  6. 第 6 段 定位词 DNT signal may some advertisers do

    What may some advertisers do after receiving a DNT signal?

    • A They must immediately delete all information they have collected.
    • B They may ignore the signal and continue tracking users.
    • C They will always honour the request because it is legally binding.
    • D They will ask Microsoft to disable DNT permanently.
    • E They may replace behavioural ads with no advertisements at all.
    • F They may identify exactly why each user enabled DNT.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：B

    该项逐一对应 some may ignore a DNT signal and press on anyway，其中 continue tracking 是 press on 的语境化改写。它严格保留 may 和部分主体，符合原文的推测强度。障碍在于前句提到 some companies have promised to stop，考生若只抓积极承诺会错过随后 some may 的反转。

    三枚限定钉 在 第6段 只抓三处逻辑钉：not oblige、some、may ignore。它们构成“无强制-非全体-可忽略”的最小证据组。选项中凡有 must、always、all 立即排除；剩下的选项用 continue tracking 核验，正确项即可确定。

  7. 第 7 段 定位词 Microsoft's motive DNT a default

    What does the article suggest about Microsoft's motive for making DNT a default?

    • A It was definitely designed to destroy Google's advertising business.
    • B It was solely intended to give consumers more control over privacy.
    • C Its real motive remains uncertain, despite possible competitive and privacy-related explanations.
    • D It was required by an agreement with the FTC and the DAA.
    • E It was meant to make Windows 8 an obviously superior product.
    • F It was a response to advertisers' demand for more tracking data.
    显示答案与解析 收起答案与解析

    正确答案：C

    该项以 remains uncertain 对应 Also unclear is why Microsoft has gone it alone，并兼容两类文本内解释：trying to upset Google 是竞争性假设，consumers should have more control 是隐私说明。despite possible 明确这些只是可能而非证实。障碍在于文章给出了多个看似合理的理由，但最后的反问阻止考生把任一理由定为事实。

    保留词压强计 先凭 DNT a default 回到 第7段，再不读细节理由，只圈作者态度标记：unclear、If、no guarantee、does not seem、Could it really。把这些标记汇总为“不下定论”，便可立即排除所有 definitely、solely、required 的选项，确定正确项。

STRUCTURE · 篇章结构

5 个意群的新闻报道骨架

按新闻报道 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. P1

    新闻导语：行为广告的价值与争议引入

    这个 opening lead 首先通过 old saying 引出 advertising budgets 的 waste 问题，然后 shift 到 internet age 带来的 solution：通过 tracking online behavior 来实现 behavioural ads 的 targeting，为后文的 controversy 埋下 foreshadowing。

    作为 news lead，这个 paragraph 通过 contrast（traditional advertising waste vs. internet-age precision）establish 了 behavioral tracking 的 commercial value，为理解后续 Microsoft's DNT decision 引发的 advertiser backlash 提供 necessary context。

    引出行为追踪广告技术
  2. P2

    核心冲突呈现：追踪许可的争议焦点

    这个 transition paragraph 通过 temporal marker（past couple of weeks）和 conflict indicator（quarrel）直接 present 这篇 news story 的 central controversy：advertisers 和 users 在 tracking permission 问题上的 fundamental disagreement，用两个 rhetorical questions 清晰 frame 了 debate 的两个 opposing positions。

    这是典型的 nut graph，在 news structure 中 function 是 crystallize the story's focus。它把 paragraph 1 的 general context 转化为 specific conflict，通过 two-sided question format 建立了 article 后续 development 的 framework，让 reader 明确接下来会 explore 的 core issue。

    提出追踪许可争议
  3. P3 P4

    事件发展：DNT机制的提出与行业响应

    这两个 paragraphs 通过 chronological sequence（December 2010 → February → May 31st）trace 了 DNT controversy 的 development timeline：从 FTC's proposal，到 browser vendors' adoption，再到 industry agreement，最后到 Microsoft's controversial decision，构成完整的 event chain。

    作为 news body 的 factual foundation，这个 sense group provide 了 essential chronological context，让 readers understand how the conflict evolved。它通过 listing key milestones 和 major players（FTC, Microsoft, Apple, Google, DAA）establish credibility，为后续 analysis of consequences 提供 solid factual basis。

    微软DNT决策的时间线
  4. P5

    广告商反应：对DNT默认设置的强烈反对

    这个 paragraph 通过 emotional language（horrified）和 industry spokesperson quotation 展现 advertisers' strong negative reaction，核心 argument 是 DNT by default 会让 consumers worse off，因为 ads 会变得 less targeted and meaningful，体现了 commercial interests 和 user privacy 之间的 fundamental tension。

    这是 news balance 的关键部分，present 了 controversy 中 one side's perspective。通过 direct quote 和 specific argument（consumers will get less meaningful ads），它 add depth to the conflict，让 readers understand why advertisers oppose Microsoft's move，fulfill news reporting 的 fairness requirement。

    广告商的反对立场
  5. P6 P7

    不确定性分析：广告商响应与微软动机

    最后两个 paragraphs 通过 repeated uncertainty markers（not yet clear, unclear, no guarantee）explore 两层 ambiguity：advertisers 可能如何 respond to DNT signals，以及 Microsoft's true motivation behind this move。文章用 speculative language 和 rhetorical question 结尾，leave readers with unresolved questions。

    作为 news conclusion，这个 sense group 不 provide definitive answers，而是 present ongoing uncertainty，这是 breaking news reporting 的 characteristic feature。它 through raising questions about implementation and motivation，encourage readers to continue following this developing story，同时 maintain journalistic neutrality by not drawing premature conclusions。

    决策后果的不确定性
MAIN IDEA · 速判主旨

5 步定位这篇文章的主旨

不读完全篇也能锁定主旨——以下 5 步按2013年考研英语一真题 这篇原文的实际行文顺序给出，每步说明看哪里、看出什么，可直接迁移到其他考研英语文章。

  1. 首段核心陈述 P1

    新闻报道类文章通常在 opening 就会 introduce 核心话题或 background context，这是 establish 整体 framework 的关键，帮助读者快速 identify 文章的 focus area。

  2. 核心争议问题 P2

    新闻报道在 establish background 后，会迅速 present 核心 conflict 或 controversy，这个 question 或 debate 就是文章的 organizing principle，所有后续内容都围绕它展开。

  3. 触发事件 P3 P4

    新闻报道需要 concrete trigger 来 support 其 newsworthiness，这个 event 或 decision 往往是文章的 turning point，也是主旨中 specific development 的来源。

  4. 各方立场 P5 P7

    新闻报道通过 present 多方 perspectives 来 demonstrate 争议的 significance 和 complexity，这些 reactions 揭示了主旨中提到的 controversy 的实质内容。

  5. 主旨综合提炼 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7

    主旨是对文章 core narrative 的 distillation，必须包含 key actor、key action、key controversy 和 involved parties，这样才能 capture 新闻报道的 essence。

主旨信号词 quarrel P2 set off P4 horrified P5 default P4

MAIN IDEA · 主旨

这篇文章在说什么

微软决定在 Internet Explorer 10 中默认启用"请勿跟踪"功能,引发了依赖行为追踪的广告商的争议。争论的焦点在于用户应该选择加入还是选择退出在线追踪以接收定向广告。
Microsoft's decision to enable 'Do Not Track' by default in Internet Explorer 10 has sparked controversy with advertisers who rely on behavioral tracking. The debate centers on whether users should opt-in or opt-out of online tracking for targeted advertising.
WORD INFERENCE · 生词推断

5 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。已收录进考研英语高频真题词集的单词可点击进入词条页。

  • quarrel 争论、争吵、纠纷

    把这三条线索串起来看：首先，quarrel 后面immediately跟着两个对立的 questions，这个 syntactic pattern 暗示它是某种 dispute。接着，全文narrative展现了 Microsoft、advertisers、FTC 之间在 DNT policy 上的 conflicting positions。最后，第4段用 row 这个词来 refer back to 同一事件，而 row 在 British English 中常指 noisy disagreement。三条线索converge到同一个conclusion：quarrel 指的是一场公开的、涉及多方的 dispute 或 argument。

    语境冲突+叙事追踪+同义互证
  • horrify 感到震惊恐惧的、极度不安的

    三条线索共同指向一个conclusion：从 cause-effect 看，Microsoft 的 decision 会导致 advertisers 失去大量 tracking data，这是个 serious threat to their business model；从 morphology 看，horr- 词根本身就携带 extreme fear 的 semantic content；从 emotional intensity 看，Bob Liodice 的 defensive response confirms 这不是一般的 displeasure，而是 alarm。综合这些线索，horrified 表达的是一种因为面临 severe threat 而产生的 extreme shock and fear。

    后果评估+词根解构+反应验证
  • oblige 使负有义务、迫使

    把三个角度的evidence整合：首先，oblige 和 promise 的 juxtaposition 确立了它表示某种 non-voluntary requirement；其次，companies 可以 ignore DNT signal 这个事实说明 oblige 创造的是一种 moral 或 expected obligation，而非 legal mandate；最后，Latin 词根 obligare (to bind) 在 etymological level 上 confirms 这个词的 core meaning 是 create a binding duty。所以 oblige 的意思是 impose a moral or legal duty，使某人有义务做某事。

    概念对比+后果测试+词源定位
  • comply 遵守、服从、照做

    综合三条线索：从 collocation pattern 看，comply with requests 表示对 external requirements 的 positive response，区别于 ignore 或 reject；从 discourse coherence 看，它和前文的 stop tracking (when getting DNT) 指向 same behavior，即 acting according to the signal；从 etymology 看，complere (完全填满) 引申为 fulfill all requirements。这些线索 converge 到一个清晰的 meaning：comply 就是 act in accordance with rules or requests，遵守、服从。

    搭配定性+平行行为+语义演变
  • norm 常态、标准、规范

    整合三个层面的信息：从 verb collocation 看，something can become the norm 说明 norm 是一种可以 achieve 的 state，而非 inherent property；从 narrative logic 看，文中 questioning whether Microsoft's approach will become the norm 实际上在问其他 browsers 是否会 adopt the same practice，这说明 norm 指 widely adopted standard；从 etymology 看，norma (carpenter's square) 作为 measuring tool 的 physical meaning 自然延伸为 standard against which things are measured。所以 norm 就是 standard, typical, or expected pattern。

    动态搭配+社会功能+隐喻延伸
RHETORIC · 修辞手法

7 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。

  • 引语运用

    P1

    文章开篇借用 an old saying 这个 traditional wisdom，点出 advertising budgets 中一半被 wasted 的困境。这种 proverbial opening 不仅能 establish common ground 和读者建立共鸣，更重要的是它为后文 internet age 带来的 behavioral tracking solution 做了铺垫，形成 traditional problem vs. modern solution 的对比张力。

    信号词 An old saying has it that As the saying goes A common belief is that Conventional wisdom holds that It is often said that The adage goes There's a well-known phrase

    仿写： 当你需要引入一个 controversial topic 时，不妨从 common saying 或 widely accepted belief 入手。思考：这个议题有没有对应的 conventional wisdom？用 'An old saying has it that...' 或 'As the saying goes...' 开场，然后用 'but/however' 转折到现代语境。模版：'[Traditional wisdom] + the trouble is + [core problem] → In the [new context], [potential solution]'。

  • 设问引导

    P2

    第二段用两个连续的 rhetorical questions 提出核心争议：'Should advertisers assume...?' 和 'Or should they have explicit permission?'。这种 question-framing 不是真正寻求答案，而是 crystallize the debate，把复杂的 privacy vs. advertising interest 矛盾浓缩成清晰的 binary choice，引导读者进入 critical thinking mode。

    信号词 Should Or should Must Can we Is it right to Do we need to Ought Is it acceptable that

    仿写： 当你需要 present a controversy 时，把对立观点转化为 parallel questions。使用 'Should... Or should...' 的结构来 emphasize the either-or nature。关键是让 questions 具有 equal weight，避免 leading questions。模版：'Should [Group A] assume [Position 1]? Or should they [Position 2]?' 确保两个问题在 grammatical structure 上对称。

  • 数据引用

    P3 P4

    第三、四段密集使用 specific dates 和 concrete actions：'December 2010'、'In February'、'On May 31st'，配合 institutional names（FTC, DAA, Microsoft）。这种 chronological precision 和 factual grounding 为报道建立了 authoritative timeline，让抽象的 policy debate 变得 tangible and traceable，增强新闻的 credibility 和 objectivity。

    信号词 In December 2010 On May 31st In February this year proposed agreed set off

    仿写： 当描述 evolving situation 时，建立清晰的 temporal framework。用 'In [Month Year]' 或 'On [Specific Date]' 标注关键 milestones。每个时间节点配上 concrete action 和 specific actors。模版：'In [Time], [Institution] [Action]. On [Later Time], [Another Actor] [Response].' 确保 chronology 清晰，events 可验证。

  • 引语运用

    P5 P7

    第五段引入 Bob Liodice 的 direct quotation：'They'll get less meaningful, less targeted ads.'。这个 stakeholder voice 不是简单的 information relay，而是 dramatize the industry perspective，让 advertisers' concerns 从抽象变得 vocal and personal。引语的 colloquial tone（'Human nature being what it is'）也增加了 authenticity。

    信号词 says argues claims warns believes states notes points out blogged

    仿写： 当呈现 conflicting interests 时，用 direct quotes 让各方 speak for themselves。选择 quotable statements——那些包含 strong verbs, vivid language 或 clear stance 的句子。引入格式：'[Name], [Title] of [Organization], says/warns/argues [quote].' 确保 quote 前有 attribution，quote 本身 self-explanatory 且有 impact。

  • 对比手法

    P5

    第五段 'People will not get fewer ads... They'll get less meaningful, less targeted ads' 形成 quantity vs. quality 的对比。这种 rhetorical contrast 揭示了 industry 的 strategic framing：不是关于 ad volume，而是 ad relevance。这个对比也暗示了 debate 的本质——不是 whether to advertise，而是 how to advertise ethically。

    信号词 not... but will not... will less... less rather than instead of whereas while on the other hand

    仿写： 当需要 clarify misconceptions 或 refine arguments 时，使用 'not... but...' 结构。先 negate 表面层面（readers 可能 assume 的），再 assert 真正焦点。模版：'[Subject] will not [expected outcome A], [pronoun] will [actual outcome B].' 确保 A 和 B 在 structure 上 parallel，在 meaning 上 contrasting。

  • 客观描述

    P6 P7

    第六段用 'It is not yet clear' 和 'Also unclear is' 开头，第七段延续 'unclear' 的表达。这种 uncertainty framing 是记者的 epistemic modesty，承认 unfolding situation 的 ambiguity。这不仅符合 journalistic objectivity，也 invite readers 进入 sense-making process，而非接受 definitive conclusions。

    信号词 not yet clear unclear uncertain remains to be seen it is unknown difficult to tell hard to say no guarantee

    仿写： 当报道 developing stories 或 speculative situations 时，显式标注 uncertainty。用 'It is not yet clear/uncertain/unknown' 引出 unresolved questions。模版：'It is not yet clear [question]. [Options/possibilities].' 或 'Also unclear is [another question].' 这样既 inform readers 又避免 false certainty，maintaining journalistic integrity。

  • 设问引导

    P7

    文章结尾 'Could it really be that simple?' 是个 provocative closing question。它挑战前文 Microsoft's stated motive（'consumers should have more control'），暗示可能有 hidden agenda。这个 rhetorical device 让文章 open-ended，inviting readers 自己判断 Microsoft's true intentions，而非 imposing a verdict。

    信号词 Could it really be Is it possible that Can we believe Might it be Is this truly Does this mean What if Or is there

    仿写： 当文章涉及 stated motives vs. possible ulterior motives 时，用 closing question 来 surface that tension。格式：'Could it really be [the stated explanation]?' 或 'Is it possible that [simpler/more complex reality]?' 这个 question 应该 echo 前文的某个 claim，但用 skeptical tone 来 reframe it。目标是 provoke思考 而非 provide closure。

IMPLIED MEANING · 言外之意

10 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。

  • 传统广告预算浪费问题的理论性改善

    P1
    In the internet age, at least in theory, this fraction can be much reduced.

    模糊限制语 at least in theory in theory theoretically supposedly presumably arguably seemingly

    虽然表面上在说 internet technology 能 reduce advertising waste，但 'at least in theory' 这个 hedge 暗示实际效果可能并不理想。这为全文的 central conflict 埋下 foreshadowing：behavioral tracking 的 effectiveness 和 ethics 之间存在 tension。这个 implication 为后文 Microsoft 和 advertisers 的 dispute 提供了 backdrop，说明 targeted ads 的 promise 与 reality 之间有 discrepancy。

  • 广告商追踪用户的争议焦点

    P2
    Should advertisers assume that people are happy to be tracked and sent behavioural ads? Or should they have explicit permission?

    反问句（修辞性并列疑问） Should...Or should Should...or should Is it...or is it Do we...or do we Can we...or must we Will they...or will they Should we...or shouldn't we

    通过 posing 这两个 mutually exclusive questions，作者没有给出 answer 而是 highlighting opt-in versus opt-out 的 fundamental disagreement。这个 rhetorical move 暗示这不是个有 simple solution 的 technical issue，而是涉及 ethics、consumer rights 和 business interests 的 complex debate。对文章 thesis 的作用是：establish 这个 controversy 作为 backdrop，让 Microsoft's decision 和 advertisers' reaction 显得更有 significance，因为它们代表了这个 dilemma 的 different sides。

  • 广告行业对DNT的迟缓响应

    P3
    In February the FTC and the Digital Advertising Alliance (DAA) agreed that the industry would get cracking on responding to DNT requests.

    委婉表达 agreed that the industry would get cracking on get cracking on finally agreed to committed to looking into promised to consider pledged to explore vowed to address

    表面上这句话说 industry agreed 要 respond to DNT，但 'would get cracking on' 这个 informal、non-committal expression 暗示 advertising industry 并非 genuinely enthusiastic，而是在 regulatory pressure 下做出 vague promise。这个 undertone 为后文 advertisers' strong reaction to Microsoft's move 提供 context：他们之前只是 paying lip service，并没有真正 embrace DNT，所以当 Microsoft 做出 default DNT 这个 actual action 时才会如此 horrified。这揭示了 industry 的 hypocrisy。

  • 微软决定引发的冲突

    P4
    On May 31st Microsoft set off the row.

    情态词（隐含负面评价） set off the row set off sparked triggered ignited provoked stirred up

    'Set off the row' 而非 'made an announcement' 或 'took a stance'，暗示 Microsoft's decision 是 provocative、controversial 的，引发了 immediate backlash。这个 framing 为后文 advertisers' horror 和 industry's uncertain response 做 preparation，positioning Microsoft 的 move 为一个 disruptive action 而非 simple policy change。对 article's narrative 的作用是 dramatize the conflict，让 reader 意识到这不仅是 technical decision，而是触动了 advertising ecosystem 的 sensitive nerve。

  • 广告商对用户偏好论点的质疑

    P5
    Human nature being what it is, most people stick with default settings.

    委婉表达（固定句式的隐含批评） Human nature being what it is human nature being what it is things being what they are reality being what it is people being people given human nature as human nature dictates

    Advertisers 用 'human nature being what it is' 来 argue 用户会 stick with defaults，表面上是 factual observation，实际是在 frame users as passive、lazy，以此来 justify 他们对 Microsoft's default DNT 的 opposition。这个 argument 的 subtext 是：用户不该有 real choice，因为他们不会 actively make choices。这揭示了 advertisers' paternalistic attitude 和 self-serving logic。对文章 thesis 的贡献是 expose 广告行业的 hypocrisy：他们声称为 consumers 着想，实际是 protecting their data collection business model。

  • 广告行业高管的利益导向论述

    P5
    Bob Liodice, the chief executive of the Association of National Advertisers, says consumers will be worse off if the industry cannot collect information about their preferences.

    归属动词（中性报道下的立场距离） says claims argues contends maintains insists asserts

    用 'says' 来 report Bob Liodice 的 claim 而非 stronger verbs，journalist 在 distance herself from this argument，暗示这是 self-serving 的 industry talking point 而非 established fact。Combined with his title（Association of National Advertisers 的 chief executive），这 positioning 他的 statement 为 biased defense of industry interests。对文章 main point 的作用是：让 reader 看到 advertisers' argument 的 weakness 和 self-interest，contrast 他们声称的 'consumer benefit' 与实际的 business motive，支持文章对 advertising industry 的 critical perspective。

  • DNT信号的执行不确定性

    P6
    Getting a DNT signal does not oblige anyone to stop tracking, although some companies have promised to do so.

    否定式表达（揭示规则漏洞） does not oblige does not require does not mandate is not obliged to is not bound to is under no obligation to need not

    这句话 reveals DNT 的 fundamental weakness：它是 voluntary，没有 legal teeth。'Does not oblige' 这个 negative framing 加上后面的 'although some companies have promised'（暗示很多没有 promise），expose DNT 作为 privacy protection mechanism 的 inadequacy。对文章 main argument 的作用是 explain 为什么 Microsoft's default DNT 引发如此 controversy：在没有 mandatory compliance 的情况下，default setting becomes crucial，因为这可能是 唯一 way to actually protect users，但这触动了 advertisers' core interests。

  • 广告商可能的消极应对

    P6
    Unable to tell whether someone really objects to behavioural ads or whether they are sticking with Microsoft's default, some may ignore a DNT signal and press on anyway.

    模糊限制语（预测性陈述的回避责任） some may ignore a DNT signal and press on anyway may ignore might disregard could choose to some may others might companies could

    虽然用了 'some may' 这类 hedged language，但 combined with前面的 rationale（'unable to tell'），journalist 实际在 predict advertisers will use Microsoft's default 作为 excuse 来 continue tracking，exploiting the ambiguity。这 expose 广告行业的 bad faith：他们会 find ways around DNT 而非 genuinely respect it。对文章 thesis 的贡献是 further undermine advertisers' claim to care about consumer choice，showing 他们的 true priority is preserving tracking capabilities regardless of user preferences。

  • 微软动机的不确定性

    P7
    Also unclear is why Microsoft has gone it alone.

    疑问式表达（引导性质疑） unclear is why uncertain why it is unclear whether the question remains it is not clear why one wonders why the mystery is

    'Unclear is why Microsoft has gone it alone' 这个 inverted structure 强调 mystery，journalist 在 signal Microsoft's stated reason（consumer control）可能不是 full story。后续分析 suggest possible strategic motives（upsetting Google，product differentiation），暗示这个 decision 可能更多是 competitive tactics 而非 genuine privacy advocacy。这个 skepticism 对文章 overall perspective 的作用是 complicate the narrative：不是 simple 'good Microsoft vs bad advertisers'，而是 reveal all parties have self-interested calculations，making the debate more nuanced。

  • 微软官方说辞的可信度质疑

    P7
    Could it really be that simple?

    反问句（表达怀疑） Could it really be that simple? Could it really be Is it really Can it be that simple Is it possible that Are we to believe Should we accept that

    这个 rhetorical question 结尾是 journalist 在 cast doubt on Microsoft's stated motive of consumer control。After exploring various strategic explanations（competing with Google，product differentiation），这个 question 暗示 answer is 'no, it's not that simple'，Microsoft 的 decision 背后有 more complex business calculations。这对文章 overall message 的作用是 leave reader questioning all parties' stated motives，reinforcing 主题：这个 DNT debate 不是 simple privacy vs business issue，而是 complex interplay of corporate strategies, regulatory pressures 和 market competition，各方都有 self-interested agendas beyond their public justifications。

AUTHOR ATTITUDE · 作者态度

作者态度：消极批判

结论先行：本文作者态度为消极批判（ Skeptical and questioning）。下面是按步骤还原的判断过程与文中的态度信号词。

  1. 开篇限定语捕捉 P1

    第一段 raises 了一个 advertising industry 的 classic dilemma，用 old saying 引出 advertising budgets 的 waste 问题，然后 suggests 互联网时代可以通过 behavioural ads 来 reduce 这种 waste。作者并没有 directly praise 这个 solution，而是用 'at least in theory' 这样的 hedging language，暗示 theoretical possibility 与 actual practice 之间可能存在 gap，这种 cautious tone 就是 skepticism 的 early signal。

  2. 争议框架词选择 P2

    第二段 explicitly presents 一个 quarrel，提出了 two opposing views：advertisers 认为 people are happy to be tracked，而另一方认为 should have explicit permission。作者用 'quarrel' 这个 slightly negative 的词，而不是 'debate' 或 'discussion'，已经 implies 这个 dispute 的 contentious nature。更重要的是，作者 frames 这个问题为 'Should advertisers assume'，这个 framing 本身就 questions advertisers 的 presumption，suggesting 作者倾向于 challenge 这种 assumption。

  3. 声音排列质疑 P5 P6

    第五段 presents advertisers 的 horrified reaction 和他们的 chief executive 的 argument，但作者用 'Human nature being what it is' 这种 somewhat dismissive 的 tone 来 introduce 他们的 concern。更关键的是，第六段立即 follows up 指出 'It is not yet clear how advertisers will respond' 和 'some may ignore a DNT signal and press on anyway'，这 directly undermines advertisers 在上一段的 claims，showing 作者对他们 stated intentions 的 doubt。

  4. 结尾反问存疑 P7

    最后一段连续 raise 了 multiple questions：'Also unclear is why Microsoft has gone it alone'，'Could it really be that simple?'。这些 rhetorical questions 并非 seeking answers，而是 expressing doubt about Microsoft 的 stated motives。特别是最后的 'Could it really be that simple?'，这个 question 强烈 suggests 作者认为 Microsoft 的 explanation（'We believe consumers should have more control'）过于 simplistic，likely 隐藏了 other motives。这种 questioning ending 是 skeptical attitude 的 definitive marker。

  5. 全文质疑基调 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7

    综合来看，作者没有 directly condemn 任何一方，但通过 strategic use of hedging language、questioning frames、voice juxtaposition、和 rhetorical questions，consistently casts doubt on advertisers 的 claims 和 Microsoft 的 motives。这种 skeptical tone 体现了 investigative journalism 的 core principle：不轻易 accept official statements，而是 probe beneath surface explanations，encourage readers to question 和 think critically。

文中的态度信号词

  • at least in theory P1

    这个 hedging phrase 立即 creates distance between 理论上的 possibility 和 actual reality。作者用它来 suggest internet age 的 advertising efficiency improvement 只是 theoretical，implying 实际情况可能 far from ideal。这种 qualifying language 是 skepticism 的 early marker，告诉 readers 不要 take the claim at face value。

    同类词 supposedly in principle theoretically allegedly purportedly

  • quarrel P2

    作者选择 'quarrel' 而非 more neutral 的 'discussion' 或 'debate'，immediately frames 这个 issue 为 contentious 和 adversarial。这个 word choice suggests 作者认为这不是 rational exchange of ideas，而是 involving strong emotions and opposing interests。这种 slightly negative framing 为后续的 critical analysis sets the tone。

    同类词 row dispute clash conflict controversy

  • horrified P5

    作者用 'horrified' 来 describe advertisers 的 reaction，这是一个 very strong emotional term。虽然表面上是 reporting advertisers 的 feeling，但这个 word choice 有 slightly mocking tone，suggesting 作者认为这种 extreme reaction 可能是 overblown 或 self-serving。这种 subtle irony 是作者 distancing themselves from advertisers' perspective 的方式。

    同类词 shocked appalled alarmed dismayed outraged

  • It is not yet clear P6

    这个 phrase 直接 expresses uncertainty about advertisers 的 future actions，immediately undermining 他们在上一段的 assurances。作者用这种 explicit statement of uncertainty 来 signal 对 industry promises 的 doubt，suggesting 需要 wait and see rather than trust stated intentions。这是 journalistic skepticism 的 direct expression。

    同类词 unclear uncertain remains to be seen it is questionable doubtful

  • Could it really be that simple? P7

    这个 rhetorical question 在文章结尾 directly expresses 作者对 Microsoft 的 official explanation 的 disbelief。问题的 structure（'Could it really be'）clearly implies 作者认为 answer 是 'no'，表明 Microsoft 的 stated motive（consumer control）过于 simplistic，likely masking other commercial interests。这是 skeptical attitude 的 most explicit expression。

    同类词 Is it really so? Can we believe that? Is that all there is? Do we really buy that? Is that the whole story?

  • some may ignore a DNT signal and press on anyway P6

    这个 statement directly points out 即使有了 DNT signal，advertisers 仍可能 choose to ignore it。这 undermines 整个 DNT mechanism 的 effectiveness，revealing 作者对 industry self-regulation 的 deep skepticism。使用 'press on anyway' 这种 determined language 更 emphasizes advertisers 的 potential for non-compliance。

    同类词 may ignore might disregard could bypass potentially overlook possibly circumvent

GENRE · 速判体裁

30 秒判定这是一篇新闻报道

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，可直接迁移到其他考研英语 真题文章。

如何快速判断这是一篇新闻报道？

  1. 开篇铺背景引事件 P1

    新闻报道的 lead paragraph 导语段通常会 introduce a newsworthy event 引入一个有新闻价值的事件作为 hook 钩子。本文 第1段 通过 advertising budgets 广告预算和 behavioural ads 行为广告引出了一个 industry issue 行业议题，这是典型的 news context setting 新闻背景铺垫。相比之下，议论文会在开头直接 present a thesis 提出论点，说明文会直接 define the subject 定义主题。

  2. 多处近期时间标记 P2 P3 P4

    新闻报道必然 report recent events 报道近期事件，所以会有 clear temporal anchors 清晰的时间锚点。本文在 第2段 出现 'In the past couple of weeks' 最近几周，第3段 有 'In December 2010' 和 'In February'，第4段 有 'On May 31st'，这些都是 precise time markers 精确时间标记。议论文很少用 specific recent dates 具体近期日期，说明文则 timeless 无时间性。

  3. 真实机构人物密集 P3 P4 P5 P7

    新闻报道必须 cite sources 引用信源和 involve real-world actors 涉及现实世界的参与者来 establish credibility 建立可信度。本文提到了 Federal Trade Commission 联邦贸易委员会、Digital Advertising Alliance 数字广告联盟、Microsoft、Google、Apple 等 concrete entities 具体实体，还有 Bob Liodice 和 Brendon Lynch 这样的 named sources 具名信源。议论文通常 use abstract examples 使用抽象例子，说明文 focus on concepts 聚焦概念而非 specific actors 具体参与者。

  4. 过去时态记录动作 P3 P4

    新闻报道用 past tense narrative 过去时态叙事来 recount what happened 叙述发生了什么。本文 第3段 的 'FTC proposed' FTC 提出了、'agreed' 同意了，第4段 的 'Microsoft set off' 微软引发了，都是 definitive past actions 明确的过去动作。议论文多用 present tense 现在时态来 state universal truths 陈述普遍真理，说明文用 present tense 描述 how things work 事物如何运作。

  5. 多方立场和反应 P5 P6 P7

    新闻报道追求 objectivity 客观性，会 present different sides 呈现不同立场。本文 第5段 展示了 advertisers' concerns 广告商的担忧（'Advertisers are horrified'），引用 industry executive's view 行业高管观点；第6段-7 探讨 uncertainty 不确定性和 Microsoft's unclear motives 微软不明确的动机。这种 multi-sided presentation 多方呈现是新闻特征。议论文会 clearly favor one side 明确偏向一方，说明文 neutral but not multi-voiced 中立但不多声部。

  6. 特征集群同现验证 P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7

    将前面四步 findings 发现整合起来，形成 comprehensive recognition pattern 综合识别模式。新闻报道不是单一 feature 特征，而是 cluster of characteristics 特征集群同时出现。本文同时满足 all five criteria 全部五个标准，且这些 elements 元素相互 reinforce 强化，构成 unmistakable news structure 明确无误的新闻结构。

哪些词暴露了新闻报道体裁？

  • In December 2010 P3 即时性时间与地点词 In February On May 31st this year In the past couple of weeks now
  • America's Federal Trade Commission (FTC) P3 新闻来源与引用词 Microsoft Apple Google Digital Advertising Alliance (DAA) Bob Liodice, the chief executive of the Association of National Advertisers
  • proposed P3 核心事实概括词 agreed set off the row said promised blogged
  • quarrel P2 核心事实概括词 row controversy illustrated horrified
  • says P5 新闻来源与引用词 said blogged proposed promised it has an ad business too, which it says
  • Internet Explorer 10, the version due to appear with Windows 8 P4 核心事实概括词 Microsoft's Internet Explorer Apple's Safari Google's Chrome DNT as a default behavioural ads
SENTENCE INSIGHTS · 句子精讲

10 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 Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track 的常见问题

2013年考研英语一真题 Section II Part A (2) 文章 Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track 的原文出自哪里？
The Economist《经济学人》2012 年6月9日一篇题为 Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track（微软与隐私∶信息追踪的改变）的文章，该文副标题为 Data on People's Online Behaviour Are Worth Both Paying for and Arguing over（用户在线行为数据不仅值得为之付出代价，也值得为之据理力争）。
2013年考研英语一真题文章 Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track 的主旨是什么？
微软决定在 Internet Explorer 10 中默认启用"请勿跟踪"功能,引发了依赖行为追踪的广告商的争议。争论的焦点在于用户应该选择加入还是选择退出在线追踪以接收定向广告。（英文表述：Microsoft's decision to enable 'Do Not Track' by default in Internet Explorer 10 has sparked controversy with advertisers who rely on behavioral tracking. The debate centers on whether users should opt-in or opt-out of online tracking for targeted advertising.）
Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track（2013年考研英语一真题文章）是什么体裁？难度如何？
体裁为新闻报道，作者立场是消极批判（Skeptical and questioning）。CEFR 难度 C1，全文 436 词、7 段；在考研英语一全部 102 篇真题文章中，C1 级共 92 篇（占 90%）。
2013年考研英语一真题文章 Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track 的篇章结构是怎样的？
全文 7 段按新闻报道骨架分为 5 个意群：第1段——新闻导语：行为广告的价值与争议引入；第2段——核心冲突呈现：追踪许可的争议焦点；第3段、第4段——事件发展：DNT机制的提出与行业响应；第5段——广告商反应：对DNT默认设置的强烈反对；第6段、第7段——不确定性分析：广告商响应与微软动机。
Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track 一文的作者态度是什么？
作者态度是消极批判（Skeptical and questioning）。判断路径：开篇限定语捕捉 → 争议框架词选择 → 声音排列质疑 → 结尾反问存疑 → 全文质疑基调；文中的态度信号词包括 at least in theory（第1段）、quarrel（第2段）、horrified（第5段）、It is not yet clear（第6段）、Could it really be that simple?（第7段）、some may ignore a DNT signal and press on anyway（第6段）。
2013年考研英语一真题文章 Microsoft and Privacy∶ Change of Track 中有哪些值得积累的生词？
按文中出现顺序共 5 个：quarrel（争论、争吵、纠纷）、horrify（感到震惊恐惧的、极度不安的）、oblige（使负有义务、迫使）、comply（遵守、服从、照做）、norm（常态、标准、规范），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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