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.
❓ 저자가 환경 결정론에서 가능론으로의 전환에 대해 제시하는 핵심 주장은 무엇인가?
A. A. 이는 기술이 환경적 제약을 완전히 극복했음을 보여준다.
B. B. 그것은 환경이 더 이상 인간 사회에 영향을 미치지 않는다는 것을 보여준다.
C. C. 그것은 인간의 적응성과 환경 영향의 고정되지 않은 성격을 강조한다.
D. D. 그것은 식민지 이데올로기가 과학적으로 정당화되었음을 증명한다.
✅ 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