The concept of 'environmental determinism' posits that human behavior and societal development are largely shaped by climatic and geographical conditions. This theory, prominent in the early 20th century, argued that temperate climates fostered industriousness and innovation, while tropical regions were associated with perceived laziness or stagnation. However, modern scholarship has largely rejected such simplistic causality, highlighting the role of historical contingencies, technological adaptation, and cultural exchange. Critics note that environmental factors are but one variable among many, and that human agency often overcomes geographical constraints. Nevertheless, a nuanced understanding acknowledges that environmental pressures can influence resource distribution and settlement patterns, thereby indirectly shaping economic and political structures, without dictating their outcomes.
❓ Каков основной аргумент, представленный в отрывке, касательно экологического детерминизма?
A. A) Экологический детерминизм точно объясняет все различия между обществами.
B. B) Теория была полностью опровергнута и не имеет современного значения.
C. C) Экологические факторы оказывают незначительное влияние, но не являются единственным определяющим фактором развития общества.
D. D) Тропический климат неизбежно приводит к экономическому застою.
✅ 正确答案
C) Environmental factors are a minor influence, but not the sole determinant of societal development.
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