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.
❓ Según el pasaje, ¿cuál es una crítica importante al determinismo ambiental?
A. Sobrepone el papel de la tecnología en el desarrollo social.
B. No tiene en cuenta la influencia del clima en el comportamiento humano.
C. Ignora el papel de la elección humana y los factores históricos.
D. Solo se aplica a las regiones templadas del mundo.
✅ 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