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, suggesting that temperate zones fostered advanced civilizations while tropical regions hindered progress. However, this theory was criticized for its oversimplification and potential to justify colonialism. Modern geographers instead emphasize 'possibilism', the idea that the environment offers a range of possibilities, and human choices, driven by culture and technology, ultimately determine outcomes. This shift reflects a broader recognition of human agency, yet recent research on climate change impacts has reintroduced a nuanced form of determinism, acknowledging that severe environmental constraints can significantly limit options, particularly for vulnerable communities lacking adaptive capacity.
❓ Согласно тексту, в чем заключается основное различие между ранним экологическим детерминизмом и современным поссибилизмом?
A. A. Ранний детерминизм игнорировал климат, в то время как поссибилизм акцентирует внимание на климате.
B. B. Ранний детерминизм считал окружающую среду решающим фактором, тогда как поссибилизм подчёркивает роль человеческой деятельности.
C. C. Ранний детерминизм основывался на исследованиях, тогда как поссибилизм является чисто теоретическим.
D. D. Ранний детерминизм поддерживал колониализм, тогда как поссибилизм отвергает любое влияние окружающей среды.
✅ 正确答案
B. Early determinism saw environment as decisive, while possibilism highlights 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