The following text discusses traditional medicine.
Traditional Chinese medicine has used acupuncture for thousands of years to treat various ailments. Modern research has begun exploring possible mechanisms for its effects: some studies suggest acupuncture may stimulate nerves, affect blood flow, or trigger the release of pain-relieving chemicals in the body. While skeptics question whether effects exceed those of placebo treatments, many patients report genuine relief. The debate illustrates broader questions about how to evaluate treatments that fall outside conventional medical frameworks.
What main idea does the text convey about acupuncture research?
Acupuncture has been completely proven effective by modern science
Research is exploring possible mechanisms while debate about effectiveness continues
Traditional medicine is always inferior to modern medicine
Scientists have rejected acupuncture as useless
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. The text presents possible mechanisms (nerves, blood flow, chemicals) AND ongoing debate (skeptics vs. patient reports).
- Evidence: Research on mechanisms plus skeptic-believer debate.
- Reasoning: Understanding and controversy coexist.
- Conclusion: Exploration continues amid unresolved debate.
Choice A is incorrect because debate continues, meaning it's not "completely proven." Choice C is incorrect because no such ranking is made. Choice D is incorrect because research continues and patients report relief.