The concept of 'environmental determinism' once dominated geographical thought, positing that human activities and social development are largely shaped by climatic and topographical conditions. However, this theory has been widely criticized for oversimplifying the complex interplay between nature and culture. Contemporary research emphasizes 'possibilism', which argues that while the environment sets certain constraints, human agency, technological innovation, and cultural values play a pivotal role in overcoming or adapting to these limitations. For instance, arid regions like the Middle East have thrived through advanced irrigation techniques, demonstrating that environmental challenges do not necessarily dictate societal outcomes. Thus, modern geography views the environment as a passive framework rather than an active agent, with human ingenuity acting as the primary driver of progress.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es la principal diferencia entre el determinismo ambiental y el posibilismo?
A. A. El determinismo ambiental ignora la tecnología, mientras que el posibilismo rechaza la influencia cultural.
B. B. El determinismo ambiental trata a la naturaleza como el factor dominante, mientras que el posibilismo destaca la capacidad humana.
C. C. El posibilismo sostiene que el medio ambiente no tiene influencia sobre la sociedad humana.
D. D. El determinismo ambiental es una teoría moderna, mientras que el posibilismo está anticuado.
✅ 正确答案
B. Environmental determinism treats nature as the dominant factor, while possibilism highlights human capability.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
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Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
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