The concept of 'environmental determinism', which posits that human activity is largely shaped by climatic and geographical conditions, has been largely discredited in modern geography. However, recent studies in climate history suggest a more nuanced relationship. For instance, the collapse of the Norse settlement in Greenland during the Little Ice Age is often cited as evidence of environmental constraints. Yet, archaeologists argue that cultural factors, such as resistance to adopting Inuit hunting techniques, were equally decisive. This has led to a new paradigm: 'possibilism', which acknowledges environmental influence but emphasizes human agency in adapting to or overcoming natural limitations. Possibilism does not deny the physical environment's role, but it rejects the idea of a unidirectional causal link, advocating instead for a complex interplay between nature and culture.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main difference between environmental determinism and possibilism?
A. Possibilism ignores environmental factors entirely, while determinism prioritizes them.
B. Possibilism recognizes environmental influence but stresses human choice, while determinism sees environment as the primary driver.
C. Possibilism is only applicable to historical cases like Greenland, while determinism applies to modern societies.
D. Possibilism focuses on cultural change, while determinism focuses on climate change.
✅ 正确答案
Possibilism recognizes environmental influence but stresses human choice, while determinism sees environment as the primary driver.
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