The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been debated in geography. Early proponents, such as Ellsworth Huntington, argued that climate and topography directly shaped human behavior and societal development. However, this view fell out of favor in the mid-20th century, as critics pointed out its oversimplification and potential for justifying colonialism. Modern scholarship instead emphasizes 'possibilism', which suggests that the environment offers a range of possibilities, but human choices and cultural factors ultimately determine outcomes. This shift reflects a broader trend toward recognizing human agency, yet recent studies on climate vulnerability have revived interest in environmental constraints, not as deterministic forces, but as significant stressors that interact with socioeconomic conditions. Thus, the current consensus is neither purely determinist nor purely possibilist, but rather an integrated approach that considers both environmental limits and human adaptability.
❓ According to the passage, what is the current scholarly view on the relationship between environment and human society?
A. A. The environment directly determines societal development, as early geographers argued.
B. B. The environment provides possibilities, but human action and culture are the sole determinants.
C. C. Environmental constraints are important but are moderated by human and social factors.
D. D. Climate change is the primary driver of societal collapse in modern times.
✅ 正确答案
C. Environmental constraints are important but are moderated by human and social factors.
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