The concept of 'environmental determinism' posits that human activities and societal development are predominantly shaped by climatic and geographical conditions. While this theory gained prominence in the 19th century, it has been largely discredited in modern geography for its oversimplification of complex human-environment interactions. Critics argue that it ignores the capacity of technological innovation and cultural adaptation to overcome environmental constraints. However, recent studies on climate vulnerability have revived interest in the relationship between environment and society, albeit with a more nuanced approach. These contemporary frameworks emphasize that environmental factors do not dictate outcomes but rather create conditions that, combined with social, economic, and political variables, influence developmental trajectories. Thus, the role of environment is better understood as a contributing factor within a multifaceted system, not a sole determinant.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main shift in understanding the environment-society relationship?
A. A. From viewing environment as a decisive factor to recognizing it as one of many influences.
B. B. From emphasizing technological innovation to focusing solely on geographical conditions.
C. C. From rejecting environmental determinism to fully accepting it in modern studies.
D. D. From studying climate vulnerability to ignoring social and political variables.
✅ 正确答案
A. From viewing environment as a decisive factor to recognizing it as one of many influences.
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