The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been a subject of debate among geographers. Early proponents, such as Ellsworth Huntington, argued that climate and topography fundamentally shape human civilization, influencing everything from economic development to cultural temperament. However, this perspective was criticized for oversimplifying complex human-environment interactions and for its potential to justify colonial ideologies. Modern scholarship instead embraces 'possibilism', which posits that while the environment offers a range of possibilities, human agency and technology play a decisive role in choosing among them. This shift reflects a broader recognition of the reciprocal nature of the relationship: humans not only adapt to their surroundings but also actively modify them, often with unintended consequences such as climate change. Thus, contemporary geography emphasizes a nuanced, dynamic model that accounts for both environmental constraints and human creativity.
❓ Согласно тексту, чем современная наука отличается от раннего экологического детерминизма?
A. A. Он полностью отвергает какое-либо влияние окружающей среды на человеческие общества.
B. B. Оно рассматривает окружающую среду как пассивный фон, не играющий никакой роли в решениях человека.
C. C. Он признает влияние окружающей среды, но подчеркивает человеческую деятельность и преобразование.
D. D. Утверждается, что технологии сделали людей полностью независимыми от ограничений окружающей среды.
✅ 正确答案
C. It acknowledges environmental influences but highlights human agency and modification.
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