Theoretical possibilism

Theoretical possibilism is a concept in geography and philosophy that suggests the environment can influence human activity, but does not rigidly determine it. Instead, it recognizes that people have the capacity to adapt and make choices within their surroundings. For example, a region might be physically suitable for farming, but cultural, technological, or economic factors can also shape whether farming actually occurs there. Possibilism emphasizes human agency and flexibility, understanding that while the environment sets constraints, individuals and societies can innovate and adapt to overcome or work within those limitations.