The concept of 'environmental determinism' has long been a subject of debate among geographers. This theory posits that the physical environment, particularly climate and terrain, directly shapes human behavior, cultural development, and societal structures. Early proponents, such as Ellsworth Huntington, argued that temperate climates fostered industriousness and innovation, while tropical regions were associated with slower societal progress. However, critics contend that this perspective oversimplifies the complex interplay between humans and their surroundings, ignoring historical contingencies, technological advancements, and cultural exchanges. Modern scholarship increasingly favors 'possibilism', which suggests that the environment offers a range of possibilities, and human agency ultimately determines which paths are pursued. This shift reflects a broader recognition of human resilience and adaptability, even in challenging ecological contexts.
❓ According to the passage, what is a major criticism of environmental determinism?
A. It overemphasizes the role of technology in societal development.
B. It fails to account for the influence of climate on human behavior.
C. It neglects the role of human choice and historical factors.
D. It only applies to temperate regions of the world.
✅ 正确答案
It neglects the role of human choice and historical factors.
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