The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been debated in geography. Early proponents argued that human behavior and societal development were largely shaped by climatic conditions and geographical features. However, this perspective was criticized for oversimplifying complex cultural interactions and for justifying colonial expansion. Contemporary research instead emphasizes 'possibilism,' which suggests that while the environment imposes certain constraints, human agency and technological innovation can overcome many of these limitations. For instance, arid regions have been transformed through advanced irrigation, and cold climates have been made habitable through modern heating systems. Thus, the relationship between environment and society is now viewed as reciprocal, with humans both adapting to and modifying their surroundings, rather than being passive recipients of natural forces.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main shift in geographic thought regarding the environment and human society?
A. A. From environmental determinism to possibilism, highlighting human agency.
B. B. From possibilism to environmental determinism, emphasizing natural constraints.
C. C. From a reciprocal relationship to a one-sided environmental influence.
D. D. From technological innovation to passive adaptation to climate.
✅ 正确答案
A. From environmental determinism to possibilism, highlighting human agency.
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