The concept of 'environmental determinism,' which posits that human behavior and societal development are largely shaped by climatic and geographical conditions, has been largely discredited in modern geography. Critics argue that it oversimplifies the complex interplay between culture, technology, and environment. However, a more nuanced perspective, termed 'possibilism,' suggests that while the environment sets certain constraints, human agency and innovation play a pivotal role in overcoming these limitations. For instance, societies in arid regions have developed intricate irrigation systems, demonstrating that environmental challenges can spur technological advancement rather than dictate cultural outcomes. This shift from determinism to possibilism reflects a broader trend in social sciences toward acknowledging human adaptability and the non-linear relationship between nature and society.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es la principal diferencia entre el determinismo ambiental y el posibilismo?
A. A) El determinismo ignora la tecnología, mientras que el posibilismo la enfatiza como el único factor.
B. B) El determinismo considera el entorno como una fuerza controladora, mientras que el posibilismo lo ve como un factor limitante pero superable.
C. C) El posibilismo rechaza todas las influencias ambientales, mientras que el determinismo las acepta parcialmente.
D. D) Ambas teorías coinciden en que la innovación humana es el principal motor del cambio social.
✅ 正确答案
B) Determinism views environment as a controlling force, while possibilism sees it as a limiting but surmountable factor.
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)
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