The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been a subject of debate among geographers. This theory posits that the physical environment, particularly climate and topography, directly shapes human behavior and societal development. Early proponents, such as Ellsworth Huntington, argued that temperate climates fostered industriousness and innovation, while tropical regions supposedly led to lethargy and stagnation. However, this perspective has been heavily criticized for its simplification and potential to justify colonialism and racial hierarchies. Modern scholarship emphasizes 'possibilism', which acknowledges that while the environment offers constraints and opportunities, human agency and cultural choices play a pivotal role. For instance, the Netherlands, despite its cold, damp climate, has achieved remarkable agricultural productivity through technological innovation. Thus, contemporary geographers view the environment as one of many factors, not a deterministic force, in shaping human societies.
❓ According to the passage, why has environmental determinism been criticized?
A. A. It overemphasizes the role of human agency in societal development.
B. B. It oversimplifies the relationship between environment and society and has been used to justify unethical practices.
C. C. It ignores the impact of climate on human behavior altogether.
D. D. It is only applicable to tropical regions and not to temperate ones.
✅ 正确答案
B. It oversimplifies the relationship between environment and society and has been used to justify unethical practices.
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