The concept of 'environmental determinism' has been largely discredited in modern geography, yet its legacy persists in popular narratives about climate and culture. Early theorists argued that human behavior and societal development were directly shaped by climatic conditions, with temperate zones deemed superior for civilization. However, contemporary research emphasizes the role of human agency and technological adaptation. For instance, the Dutch have thrived in a low-lying, flood-prone region not because of environmental advantages, but through sophisticated water management systems. Similarly, modern cities in arid climates, such as Phoenix, Arizona, rely on extensive infrastructure to import water. These examples illustrate that while environment poses constraints, human innovation often mitigates them. Thus, geographers now favor a nuanced view: environment influences, but does not determine, cultural and economic outcomes.
❓ この文章の主な主張は何ですか？
A. A) 環境決定論は社会の発展を正確に説明している。
B. B) 人間の革新性は環境的制約を克服できるため、決定論的な見解に挑戦する。
C. C) オランダ人とフェニキア人は、環境適応の失敗の例である。
D. D) 気候は文化的成功を決定する主要な要因である。
✅ 正确答案
B) Human innovation can overcome environmental limitations, challenging deterministic views.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
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