The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been a subject of scholarly debate. This theory posits that the physical environment, particularly climate and topography, fundamentally shapes human societies, influencing their economic activities, cultural practices, and even political structures. While early proponents, such as Ellsworth Huntington, argued that temperate climates fostered higher levels of civilization, critics contend that this perspective oversimplifies the complex interplay between humans and their surroundings. Modern geography, however, has moved towards a more nuanced understanding, recognizing that environmental factors are but one of many variables, including technology and social organization, that drive societal development. This shift reflects a broader academic trend towards interdisciplinary approaches, emphasizing the agency of human communities in adapting to and modifying their environments, rather than being passively determined by them.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main criticism of early environmental determinism?
A. It ignored the role of climate in shaping societies.
B. It overemphasized the influence of the physical environment on human societies.
C. It failed to consider the importance of technology in societal development.
D. It was based solely on studies of temperate regions.
✅ 正确答案
It overemphasized the influence of the physical environment on human societies.
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)
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