問題詳情

IV. Reading Comprehension（5%）Vending machines are everywhere, and sell virtually everything. In student cafeterias, they sell drinks, candy, cold and warm food, and even MP3 music. Others sell washing detergent and cigarettes, while yet others sell newspapers, instant photos, and subway tickets. Some in Japan even sell comics, beer, and underwear! Where do these machines come from, and why are they so popular?Most people would be surprised to learn that vending machines are not a modern invention. In fact, the ancient Greeks even used them over 2,000 years ago! There are historical records that tell of a device that dispensed holy water after the insertion of a single, large coin (just like our coffee machines of today!). This automation allowed the businessman to conduct business with hundreds of people. This, one can argue, was the first example of true 24x7 service, 2,000 years before the Internet business’ version of the around-the-clock, year-round service re-transformed today’s economy.Later, more modern examples of a vending machine came in 1822 in England. Richard Carlile, a bookseller, began using such a device to sell his books anonymously. This was important then because police would sometimes arrest people if they spoke or wrote things which the government found offensive. Freedom of the press was still a new concept then; it was only really implemented (實行) in the newly founded United States of America. Selling books this way, via a machine, helped protect Carlile from the courts.Vending machines today can truly be found everywhere. Although they may no longer be needed to protect individuals from the law, the anonymous aspect of the service helps lower some barriers to the sale. Sometimes it lowers them too far, as is the case with teenagers using them to purchase cigarettes or alcohol. Their 24x7 service also allows customers to use them whenever they want, without having to worry when a particular store might be open. Also, since they are located everywhere, they are much more convenient to get to and use. These amazing devices are beneficial for both businesses and customers. Businesses save on labor costs, while customers save on hassle and inconvenience. What is the future of vending machines? Except for the instant receipt of the goods offered by traditional machines, the Internet itself can be viewed as a giant, 24x7, low cost, convenient virtual vending machine. What do you think?
56. This reading is mainly about ______.
(A) the history of vending machines
(B) the advantages of vending machines
(C) the invention of vending machines
(D) All of the above

參考答案

答案：B[無官方正解]
難度：非常困難0
統計：A(1),B(2),C(1),D(2),E(0)

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