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.
❓ 이 글의 주요 주장은 무엇인가?
A. A) 환경 결정론은 사회 발전을 정확하게 설명한다.
B. B) 인간의 혁신은 환경적 한계를 극복할 수 있으며, 이는 결정론적 관점에 도전한다.
C. C) 네덜란드인과 페니키아인은 환경 적응 실패의 사례이다.
D. D) 기후는 문화적 성공을 결정하는 주요 요인이다.
✅ 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
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