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.
❓ Согласно тексту, в чем заключается основное различие между экологическим детерминизмом и поссибилизмом?
A. Поссибилизм полностью игнорирует факторы окружающей среды, тогда как детерминизм отдаёт им приоритет.
B. Поссибилизм признаёт влияние окружающей среды, но подчёркивает человеческий выбор, тогда как детерминизм рассматривает среду как основной движущий фактор.
C. Поссибилизм применим лишь к историческим случаям, таким как Гренландия, тогда как детерминизм относится к современным обществам.
D. Поссибилизм акцентирует внимание на культурных изменениях, тогда как детерминизм — на изменениях климата.
✅ 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
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