Final Answer:
Diamond's research in "Guns, Germs, and Steel" exemplifies the theory of cultural materialism by demonstrating how environmental factors, such as geography and the availability of resources, profoundly influence the development of societies. This perspective asserts that a society's material conditions shape its cultural values and practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
Geographic Determinism: Diamond argues that the geographic distribution of resources plays a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of civilizations. For instance, areas with abundant, easily domesticated plants and animals facilitated the rise of agriculture, leading to surplus food production and population growth.
Impact on Technology and Social Organization: Cultural materialism posits that the environment influences technological advancements and social structures. Diamond illustrates this by examining how geographic factors influenced the development of technologies like weaponry, impacting the power dynamics between societies.
Cultural Evolution: Diamond's analysis traces the evolution of cultures, showing how societies adapted to their environments. This aligns with the cultural materialist idea that cultural practices evolve as responses to material conditions.
Environmental Constraints: The theory suggests that environmental limitations can shape societal norms. Diamond's research highlights instances where environmental constraints, such as limited agricultural potential, influenced societal structures and cultural practices.