The concept of 'environmental determinism' posits that human behavior and societal development are largely shaped by the physical environment. This theory, popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries, argued that climate and geography directly influenced the economic prosperity and cultural characteristics of civilizations. However, modern geographers have largely rejected this deterministic view, favoring instead a 'possibilist' approach. Possibilism suggests that while the environment offers a range of possibilities, human agency and cultural choices ultimately determine which paths are taken. For instance, two societies with identical climates may develop vastly different technologies and social structures due to their unique historical and cultural contexts. Thus, the environment is seen not as a dictator but as a stage upon which human ingenuity plays out.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main difference between environmental determinism and possibilism?
A. A. Determinism emphasizes climate, while possibilism emphasizes geography.
B. B. Determinism sees the environment as a limiting factor, while possibilism sees it as a source of unlimited options.
C. C. Determinism holds that the environment dictates human development, while possibilism holds that human choices are decisive.
D. D. Determinism was popular in the 19th century, while possibilism became popular in the 20th century.
✅ 正确答案
C. Determinism holds that the environment dictates human development, while possibilism holds that human choices are decisive.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first