A Study of the Changing Livelihood Patterns in Northern and Southern China from a Geographical Determinism Perspective

Abstract

For a considerable period of time, there has been a divergence of opinion among scholars regarding the concept of "nature". In some cultural systems, the natural environment is regarded as passive and subject to human control. This belief is often accompanied by the idea that human beings can overcome heaven. In contrast, in other cultural systems, the natural environment is viewed as having unlimited magical powers and as being in control of human destiny. This control is seen as absolute and unquestionable. Since the inception of humanity, livelihoods have been the primary means of ensuring survival. From a cultural perspective, the relationship between humans and the natural environment can be examined through the lens of geographic environmental determinism. The evolution of human societies, from their initial primitive forms to the advent of agriculture and pastoralism, and finally to the industrial age, can be seen to be shaped by geographical factors. It is evident that the trajectory of human societal development has consistently followed a similar pattern. It is accurate to conclude that, with the accelerated advancement of science and technology within human society, we have acquired the capacity to influence the natural environment in ways that were previously unfeasible. This has resulted in the natural environment no longer exerting a decisive influence on human beings. However, it is irrefutable that environmental factors continue to exert a significant influence on human activities. This article examines the formation and transformation of livelihoods in North and South China, analysing the evolving roles of environmental factors and their cultural implications throughout this process. It begins by exploring the evolving meanings of geo-environmental determinism itself.