The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been debated in geography. Proponents argue that climate and topography fundamentally shape human societies, influencing everything from agricultural practices to cultural values. However, critics contend that this perspective oversimplifies complex human-environment interactions, ignoring the capacity of technological innovation and social organization to overcome environmental constraints. Recent research in sustainability science suggests a more nuanced view: while environmental factors do impose certain limitations, human agency plays a critical role in adapting to and modifying these conditions. This shift toward 'possibilism' emphasizes that environments offer a range of possibilities, and human choices determine which are realized. Understanding this dynamic is essential for addressing contemporary challenges like climate change, where both environmental pressures and societal responses are intertwined.
❓ この文章の主な論点は何ですか？
A. A. 環境決定論は、人間の社会発展のすべてを正確に説明している。
B. B. 人間社会は環境の影響から完全に独立している。
C. C. バランスの取れた視点は、環境的制約と人間の適応力の両方を認識するものである。
D. D. 技術革新は環境の制約を完全に排除することができる。
✅ 正确答案
C. A balanced perspective acknowledges both environmental constraints and human adaptability.
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