The concept of 'environmental determinism,' which posits that human behavior and societal development are largely shaped by climatic and geographical conditions, dominated geographic thought in the early twentieth century. However, scholars like Carl Sauer later challenged this view, arguing that culture, not environment, is the primary agent in shaping landscapes. Sauer's 'cultural landscape' approach emphasized human agency and the symbolic meanings embedded in physical spaces. This shift marked a move from a passive view of humans responding to nature to an active role where human activities transform the environment. Recent studies have further nuanced this debate, suggesting that while environmental factors can set constraints, they do not dictate outcomes, and that technological and social innovations often allow societies to adapt or even overcome these constraints, as seen in arid regions with advanced irrigation systems.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main criticism of environmental determinism by scholars like Carl Sauer?
A. It overemphasizes the role of technology in shaping human societies.
B. It ignores the influence of climate on agricultural practices.
C. It underestimates the role of culture and human agency in modifying the environment.
D. It incorrectly assumes that all environments are equally hospitable to human settlement.
✅ 正确答案
It underestimates the role of culture and human agency in modifying the environment.
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