The concept of 'environmental determinism' once dominated geographical thought, positing that human behavior and societal development are largely shaped by climatic and topographical conditions. However, this theory has been widely criticized for its oversimplification and potential to justify colonialism. Modern geography emphasizes 'possibilism', which acknowledges environmental constraints while highlighting human agency and technological innovation. For instance, the Netherlands, despite its low-lying topography and flood risks, has thrived through advanced water management systems. This shift reflects a broader academic trend toward recognizing the complex interplay between nature and culture, where environment offers a range of possibilities rather than fixed outcomes. Consequently, contemporary research focuses on how societies adapt, modify, and perceive their environments, rather than assuming a unidirectional causal link.
❓ 著者が環境決定論から可能論への移行について述べている主な論点は何か？
A. A. それは、技術が環境の制約を完全に克服したことを示している。
B. B. それは、環境がもはや人間社会に影響を与えないことを示している。
C. C. それは人間の適応力と、環境の影響が固定的ではない性質を強調している。
D. D. それは植民地イデオロギーが科学的に正当化されたことを証明している。
✅ 正确答案
C. It emphasizes human adaptability and the non-fixed nature of environmental impacts.
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