The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been a subject of debate among geographers. Early proponents, such as Ellsworth Huntington, argued that climate and topography directly shape human behavior and societal development. However, this perspective lost favor in the mid-20th century, as critics pointed out its simplistic assumptions and potential for justifying colonialism. Modern scholarship instead emphasizes 'possibilism,' which posits that while the environment sets certain constraints, human agency and technological innovation play a decisive role in overcoming them. For instance, the Netherlands, despite its low-lying geography, has thrived through advanced water management systems. This shift reflects a broader trend in geography toward nuanced, multi-causal explanations that recognize the interplay between natural and social factors.
❓ According to the passage, what is the main reason for the decline of environmental determinism?
A. A. It failed to account for the success of the Netherlands.
B. B. It was criticized for oversimplifying the relationship between environment and society.
C. C. It was replaced by a theory that ignores environmental factors entirely.
D. D. It focused too much on technological innovation.
✅ 正确答案
B. It was criticized for oversimplifying the relationship between environment and society.
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