What is possibilism?

Possibilism is a philosophical theory that suggests that humans have the ability to make choices and influence their own destiny, despite external factors and limitations. This theory opposes the idea of determinism, which posits that all events are predetermined and human choice is illusory.

In the context of geography, possibilism is the idea that the natural environment sets constraints on human activities, but humans have the ability to adapt and overcome these limitations through innovation and technology. This concept was popularized by French geographer Paul Vidal de la Blache in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Possibilism emphasizes human agency and the role of culture, technology, and social organization in shaping human interactions with their environment. It suggests that while the physical environment may present challenges and limitations, humans have the ability to adapt and thrive in a variety of environments through their own ingenuity. Ultimately, possibilism asserts that human choice and action play a significant role in shaping the course of history and geography.