Question

Who amongst the following presented the concept of neo-determinism?

• A. Jean Brunhes
• B. Griffith Taylor
• C. E.C. Semple
• D. Karl Ritter

Hint:

For geography exams, create a table of key geographical thinkers, their associated schools of thought (e.g., Determinism, Possibilism, Neo-determinism), and their main arguments or analogies. This helps in quick revision and comparison.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Neo-determinism, also known as 'stop-and-go determinism', is a geographical concept that provides a middle ground between environmental determinism and possibilism.
- Environmental determinism argues that the physical environment dictates human social development.
- Possibilism argues that the environment provides a range of possibilities, and humans have the freedom to choose their course of action.
- Neo-determinism suggests that nature sets limits and offers possibilities for human development, but it does not completely determine it. Humans can react to these limits and make choices, but they cannot ignore the influence of the environment without consequences.
Step 2: Identifying the Proponent:
The concept of neo-determinism was introduced by the Australian geographer Griffith Taylor. He used the analogy of a traffic controller to explain his theory: humans can alter the pace ('go' or 'stop') of development but cannot change the direction set by the natural environment.
Step 3: Analyzing the Options:
- Jean Brunhes was a French geographer and a proponent of possibilism.
- Griffith Taylor is credited with developing the concept of neo-determinism.
- E.C. Semple, a student of Ratzel, was a strong advocate for environmental determinism.
- Karl Ritter, along with Alexander von Humboldt, is considered one of the founders of modern geography, with leanings towards a deterministic view.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Based on the analysis, Griffith Taylor is the geographer who presented the concept of neo-determinism.