The concept of 'environmental determinism,' which posits that human behavior and societal development are largely shaped by climatic and geographical conditions, has been a subject of intense debate among geographers. Early proponents, such as Ellsworth Huntington, argued that temperate climates fostered industriousness and innovation, while tropical regions lagged due to heat-induced lethargy. However, this view was criticized for its ethnocentric bias and lack of empirical rigor. Modern scholarship emphasizes the role of human agency and technological adaptation, suggesting that environmental factors are merely one variable in a complex interplay of cultural, historical, and economic forces. For instance, the success of Singapore, a tropical nation, in achieving high economic development challenges deterministic assumptions. Thus, while environment can constrain or enable certain options, it does not dictate outcomes.
❓ What is the main argument presented in the passage regarding environmental determinism?
A. A. Environmental factors are the primary determinants of societal success.
B. B. The theory of environmental determinism has been fully discredited and is no longer relevant.
C. C. Human agency and adaptation can overcome environmental constraints, making determinism overly simplistic.
D. D. Tropical climates inherently hinder economic development due to heat.
✅ 正确答案
C. Human agency and adaptation can overcome environmental constraints, making determinism overly simplistic.
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