Read the passage about the history of coffee houses. 'The first coffee houses in the 17th-century England, known as 'penny universities,' were remarkably egalitarian spaces. For the price of a penny, any man, regardless of his social standing, could enter and engage in serious discourse on topics ranging from politics and finance to science and literature. Unlike taverns, where alcohol consumption was primary, coffee houses fostered a culture of sobriety and intellectual debate. They became vital hubs for commerce, with merchants and brokers conducting business, and also served as post offices and reading rooms, providing access to the latest pamphlets and newspapers.' What is the main idea of this passage?
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A
Coffee was more popular than alcohol in 17th-century England.
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B
English coffee houses were important centers for social, intellectual, and commercial activities.
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C
Only the wealthiest members of society could afford to go to coffee houses.
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D
Taverns were the only places where business could be conducted.