The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been a subject of debate among geographers. Early proponents, such as Ellsworth Huntington, argued that climate and topography fundamentally shape human behavior and societal development. However, this perspective has been criticized for oversimplifying complex cultural interactions and for justifying colonial narratives. Modern scholarship emphasizes 'possibilism', which suggests that while the environment imposes constraints, human agency and technological innovation can overcome many of these limitations. For instance, the Netherlands has successfully managed water resources despite its low-lying geography. Thus, contemporary geography views the environment as a contributing factor rather than an absolute determinant, acknowledging the dynamic interplay between nature and culture.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main shift in geographic thought regarding the environment?
A. A) From environmental determinism to possibilism, emphasizing human agency.
B. B) From possibilism to determinism, prioritizing environmental constraints.
C. C) From cultural geography to physical geography, focusing on landforms.
D. D) From technological optimism to environmental pessimism, ignoring human choices.
✅ 正确答案
A) From environmental determinism to possibilism, emphasizing human agency.
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