The concept of 'environmental determinism', which posits that human behavior and societal development are largely shaped by climatic and geographical conditions, has been largely discredited in modern geography. Critics argue that it oversimplifies the complex interplay between culture, technology, and environment. However, a nuanced perspective, known as 'possibilism', acknowledges that while the environment sets certain constraints, it does not dictate human choices. For instance, societies in similar climates have developed vastly different political systems and economic practices, demonstrating that human agency and historical contingencies play pivotal roles. This debate highlights the ongoing tension between structural factors and human volition in understanding societal outcomes.
❓ 본문에서 환경 결정론에 관한 주요 논점은 무엇인가?
A. 이는 현대 지리학적 증거에 의해 완전히 뒷받침된다.
B. 단순화 지나치다는 이유로 거부되지만, 수정된 관점은 인간의 행위성을 부정하지 않으면서 환경적 제약을 인정한다.
C. 이는 기후가 정치 체제를 전적으로 결정한다는 것을 시사한다.
D. 그것은 환경 요인을 완전히 무시하는 가능론(possibilism)으로 대체되었다.
✅ 正确答案
It is rejected due to its oversimplification, but a modified view recognizes environmental constraints without denying 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