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.
❓ 지문에 따르면, 환경 결정론과 가능주의 사이의 주요 차이점은 무엇인가?
A. A) 결정론은 기술을 무시하는 반면, 가능론은 기술을 유일한 요인으로 강조한다.
B. B) 결정론은 환경을 통제하는 힘으로 보는 반면, 가능론은 환경을 제한적이지만 극복 가능한 요소로 본다.
C. C) 가능론은 모든 환경적 영향을 거부하는 반면, 결정론은 이를 부분적으로 수용한다.
D. D) 두 이론 모두 인간의 혁신이 사회 변화의 주요 동인이라는 점에 동의한다.
✅ 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)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first