The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been a subject of debate among geographers. This theory posits that human activities and societal development are largely shaped by the physical environment, such as climate and terrain. Early proponents, like Ellen Churchill Semple, argued that temperate climates fostered advanced civilizations, while tropical regions inhibited progress. However, critics contend that this perspective oversimplifies complex human-environment interactions and ignores the role of human agency, technology, and cultural innovation. Modern geography has largely rejected environmental determinism in favor of 'possibilism,' which suggests that the environment offers a range of possibilities, and human choices ultimately determine outcomes. This shift reflects a broader recognition of the dynamic and reciprocal relationship between societies and their natural surroundings, where humans can both adapt to and modify their environment.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main weakness of environmental determinism?
A. It overemphasizes the role of technology in societal development.
B. It fails to account for human agency and cultural factors.
C. It ignores the influence of climate on human activities.
D. It rejects the idea that the environment provides opportunities.
✅ 正确答案
It fails to account for human agency and cultural factors.
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