The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been a subject of debate among geographers. This theory posits that the physical environment, particularly climate and topography, directly shapes human behavior, cultural development, and societal structures. Early proponents, such as Ellsworth Huntington, argued that temperate climates fostered industriousness and innovation, while tropical regions were associated with lethargy and stagnation. However, critics have pointed out that this perspective oversimplifies the complex interplay between humans and their surroundings, ignoring factors like technology, trade, and historical contingencies. In recent decades, the rise of 'possibilism' has offered a more nuanced view, suggesting that the environment offers a range of possibilities, and human choices, guided by culture and knowledge, determine which possibilities are realized. This shift reflects a broader academic trend toward recognizing human agency over passive adaptation.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es un defecto importante del determinismo ambiental?
A. Sobredimensiona el papel de la tecnología en el desarrollo humano.
B. No logra tener en cuenta la influencia del clima en la cultura.
C. Ignora la complejidad de las interacciones entre los seres humanos y el medio ambiente.
D. Sugiere que todas las sociedades se desarrollan de manera similar.
✅ 正确答案
It ignores the complexity of human-environment interactions.
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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