The concept of 'environmental determinism' posits that human behavior and societal development are largely shaped by climatic and geographical conditions. While this theory gained prominence in the early 20th century, it has since been criticized for oversimplifying the complex interplay between nature and culture. Contemporary scholars argue that technological advancements and globalization have diminished the direct influence of environment on social structures. However, recent studies on climate change suggest that extreme weather events can still trigger migration patterns and economic shifts, indicating that environmental factors retain significant, albeit indirect, effects. Thus, a nuanced perspective acknowledges both the constraints imposed by physical environments and the adaptive capacity of human societies.
❓ According to the passage, what is the current scholarly view on environmental determinism?
A. It is fully rejected due to technological progress.
B. It remains valid but must account for human adaptability and indirect effects.
C. It has been replaced by cultural determinism.
D. It only applies to migration patterns.
✅ 正确答案
It remains valid but must account for human adaptability and indirect effects.
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