Final answer:
Different environments aided the formation of distinct cultures due to the use of local resources, with geography having a significant influence on the development of early societies. Increased globalization and interconnectedness are currently leading to more cultural exchanges and the potential for a global culture.
Step-by-step explanation:
Different environments contributed to different cultures because people made use of the resources in their particular region (Option a). Physical environments—whether natural, constructed, or modified—affect how societies develop their cultures through adaptations and behaviors. For instance, island inhabitants would develop a culture distinct from those living in deserts. This difference is informed by the requirements of their respective environments, affecting subsistence patterns, material culture, and even human biology over time.
Geography played a crucial role in shaping early human societies, influencing their lifestyle, whether nomadic or settled, and their engagement with natural resources like water, soil, and tools. Early civilizations often thrived around large rivers where agriculture could sustain a sizable population, leading to the development and maintenance of a distinct culture.
Today, the potential emergence of a global culture is observed, facilitated by increased communication, travel, and trade. Societies are more interconnected than ever, allowing for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures, which were once limited by geographical boundaries and lack of immediate communication tools.