CUET UG Geography and Geology - 2025 Question Paper with Solutions

# Q1 of 50

The following activity can be termed as an example of possibilism:

Options
A.

Forest worship

B.

Ports on the coasts

C.

Being afraid of the fury of nature

D.

Collecting fruits and herbs from the forest

Show Answer
Correct Answer

Ports on the coasts

Solution

The correct option is Ports on the coasts.

To understand why this is the correct answer, we must examine the difference between the two main geographical perspectives regarding human-nature relationships: Environmental Determinism and Possibilism.

1. Environmental Determinism: This concept represents a stage where humans are completely subservient to nature. In a primitive state of society with low technological development, human activities are dictated and restricted by natural forces. Activities like forest worship, being afraid of the fury of nature, and collecting fruits and herbs from the forest are all examples of humans adapting directly to nature without altering it.

2. Possibilism: As technology, knowledge, and society advance, humans develop the capability to overcome environmental constraints. Nature no longer dictates human action completely; instead, it offers opportunities and possibilities. Humans use these possibilities to create their own cultural and infrastructural landscape by modifying nature.

Establishing ports on the coasts is a prime example of possibilism. Rather than accepting the natural coastline as an impassable boundary, humans apply technology and engineering to modify the coastal environment, constructing harbors to facilitate global trade and maritime travel.

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