The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been a subject of debate among geographers. This theory posits that human behavior and societal development are largely shaped by the physical environment, such as climate and terrain. Early proponents, like Ellen Churchill Semple, argued that civilizations in temperate zones were more advanced due to favorable conditions, while tropical regions faced obstacles to progress. However, critics contend that this perspective oversimplifies the complex interplay between humans and nature, ignoring cultural innovation and technological adaptation. Modern scholarship emphasizes 'possibilism', which suggests that the environment offers a range of possibilities, and human choices, driven by culture and history, determine which are realized. This shift reflects a broader recognition of human agency in overcoming environmental constraints, as seen in the development of arid regions through irrigation or cold climates through heating systems.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es la principal limitación del determinismo ambiental?
A. Sobrepone el papel del clima en la configuración de las civilizaciones.
B. No logra tener en cuenta la creatividad humana y la adaptación cultural.
C. Rechaza la influencia del terreno en el progreso social.
D. Solo es aplicable a regiones templadas.
✅ 正确答案
It fails to account for human creativity and cultural adaptation.
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