Environmental Determinism

Definition

Environmental determinism is the theory that the physical environment, particularly the climate and geography, shapes human behaviors, cultures, and societies. This concept suggests that people's lives and choices are largely influenced by their surroundings, often implying a fixed relationship between the environment and human development. In literature, particularly in realism and naturalism, this idea plays a crucial role in illustrating how characters are affected by their environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Environmental determinism suggests that geographical features like mountains, rivers, and climate directly influence human behavior and societal development.
2. In naturalist literature, characters often face insurmountable challenges posed by their environment, leading to a sense of inevitability regarding their fates.
3. The theory gained prominence in the 19th century but has faced criticism for oversimplifying the complex relationship between humans and their environments.
4. Realist writers often use environmental determinism to highlight social inequalities and struggles faced by characters due to their geographical settings.
5. The impact of environmental determinism can be seen in how authors depict rural versus urban settings, showcasing different lifestyles shaped by these contrasting environments.

Review Questions

• How does environmental determinism influence character development in naturalist literature?
  • Environmental determinism plays a significant role in shaping character development in naturalist literature by presenting characters as products of their environment. This means that their actions, decisions, and ultimately their fates are heavily influenced by the physical conditions around them. For example, a character from a harsh, unforgiving landscape may display survival instincts that reflect their struggle against environmental challenges, demonstrating how deeply intertwined they are with their surroundings.
• In what ways do realism and environmental determinism intersect in Latin American literature?
  • Realism and environmental determinism intersect in Latin American literature through the depiction of characters whose lives are profoundly impacted by their social and geographical contexts. Realist authors focus on authentic representations of everyday life while emphasizing how environmental factors such as poverty or landscape shape individuals' experiences. This intersection allows readers to understand not only the characters' circumstances but also the broader societal issues influenced by their environments.
• Critically evaluate the implications of environmental determinism on our understanding of cultural identity within Latin American literature.
  • The implications of environmental determinism on our understanding of cultural identity within Latin American literature are profound. By framing culture as a product of geographical influences, it risks oversimplifying the complexities of identity formation. While the environment undoubtedly shapes aspects of culture, it does not account for historical events, individual agency, or intercultural exchanges that also play vital roles. Therefore, while environmental determinism can provide insight into the relationship between people and place, it should be approached with caution to avoid deterministic interpretations that overlook other influential factors.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A literary movement that emphasizes the influence of environment, heredity, and social conditions on human behavior, often depicting characters as products of their surroundings.

Realism:

A literary approach that aims to depict everyday life accurately and truthfully, focusing on ordinary people and their struggles within their specific environments.

Geography: The study of places and the relationships between people and their environments, which plays a key role in shaping cultural identity and societal development.