How does possibilism differ from environmental determinism?

Possibilism emphasizes the role of culture and human agency in shaping societies, asserting that while the physical environment can limit certain actions, it does not dictate them. Unlike environmental determinism, which suggests that human behavior and societal development are primarily shaped and constrained by the physical environment, possibilism recognizes that humans have the ability to adapt to their environments and make choices based on cultural and social factors.

This perspective highlights that people can use technology, innovations, and social organization to overcome environmental challenges, thus allowing for a diverse range of cultures to develop in various environmental settings. In this way, it underscores the importance of human creativity and resourcefulness, positioning culture as a significant factor in human development rather than a mere response to environmental conditions.