The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been a subject of debate among geographers. This theory posits that the physical environment, particularly climate and terrain, directly shapes human societies and their development. Early proponents, such as Ellsworth Huntington, argued that temperate climates fostered industriousness and innovation, while tropical regions, with their abundant resources and harsh conditions, led to less advanced civilizations. However, this perspective has been heavily criticized for its ethnocentric bias and oversimplification. Modern scholarship emphasizes that human agency, cultural values, and technological innovation can overcome or adapt to environmental constraints. For instance, the Netherlands has thrived in a low-lying, flood-prone landscape through sophisticated engineering, while arid regions in the Middle East have developed advanced irrigation systems. Thus, while the environment undeniably influences human activity, it is not the sole determinant of societal outcomes.
❓ Какова основная мысль автора относительно экологического детерминизма?
A. A) Окружающая среда является основным фактором формирования человеческих обществ.
B. B) Экологический детерминизм является обоснованной теорией, объясняющей культурные различия.
C. C) Окружающая среда влияет на общества, но человеческий фактор также играет решающую роль.
D. D) Тропический климат неизбежно приводит к менее развитым цивилизациям.
✅ 正确答案
C) The environment influences societies, but human factors also play a crucial role.
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