The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been debated in geography. Early theorists argued that human societies are largely shaped by their physical environment, such as climate and topography. However, this view was criticized for oversimplifying the complex interplay between culture and nature. Recent research suggests that while environmental factors can constrain certain activities, human innovation and social organization often overcome these limitations. For instance, the development of air conditioning enabled rapid urbanization in hot regions, which were once considered uninhabitable. Thus, modern geography emphasizes 'possibilism', where the environment offers opportunities rather than dictates outcomes, and human agency plays a pivotal role in shaping societal trajectories.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 환경에 관한 지리적 사고의 주요 변화는 무엇인가?
A. A. 환경이 인간 사회를 완전히 결정한다.
B. B. 환경은 예외 없이 인간의 활동을 제한할 뿐이다.
C. C. 환경은 가능성을 제공하며, 인간의 주체적 행위가 결정적이다.
D. D. 기후 변화로 인해 환경 결정론이 더욱 중요해졌다.
✅ 正确答案
C. The environment provides possibilities, and human agency is crucial.
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