Final answer:
Possibilism is an approach in geography that acknowledges the limitations set by the environment but emphasizes human agency and cultural development. It contrasts with environmental determinism, which credits the physical environment with a dominant role in shaping human culture and behavior. Compatibilism in philosophy similarly reconciles free will with determinism.
Step-by-step explanation:
Possibilism in geography is the theory that the environment sets certain constraints or limitations, but culture is otherwise determined by social conditions. An example of possibilism is the development of agricultural practices in various regions; for instance, different societies have developed different forms of agriculture adapted to their environments, such as terrace farming in Asia, which illustrates how humans adapt their farming practices to mountainous terrain.
In contrast, environmental determinism suggests that human behavior is strongly influenced or determined by the physical environment. Adherents to environmental determinism might argue that societies in temperate climates are wealthier because the climate is more conducive to agriculture and technological advancement.
Compatibilism or soft determinism in philosophy addresses a similar debate about free will and determinism, affirming that although determinism is true, human freedom and moral responsibility are still meaningful concepts because our actions align with our desires and wishes, even if these are ultimately determined by prior events.