The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been debated in geography. Early proponents argued that climate and topography directly shape human behavior and societal development. However, modern scholars criticize this view for oversimplifying the complex interplay between nature and culture. Instead, they propose 'possibilism', which suggests that the environment offers a range of possibilities, and human agency ultimately determines which paths are taken. This shift reflects a broader recognition that human societies are not passive recipients of environmental forces, but active agents in shaping their own destinies, even within natural constraints.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main criticism of environmental determinism?
A. It ignores the role of climate in human development.
B. It overemphasizes the influence of human culture on nature.
C. It fails to account for the complex relationship between environment and society.
D. It rejects the idea that nature provides any constraints on human activity.
✅ 正确答案
It fails to account for the complex relationship between environment and society.
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