Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Disenchanting Modern Myths: A Critique of Linguistic-Geographical Determinism in the Narratives of Maritime and Agricultural Civilizations

Ke YeThe High School Attached to Zhejiang University*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

In recent years, the concepts of maritime and agricultural civilizations have attracted growing attention, particularly in Chinese social media and cross-cultural discussions. These narratives are not only popular in public discourse but also quoted in academic debates about the relationship between geography, civilization, and language. This study critically examines this pervasive dichotomy. While some scholars argue that geography shapes civilization, which in turn shapes language development through distinct scripts, grammar, and pragmatics, this paper challenges the validity and generalizability of such claims. The fundamental flaw lies in the assumption that a civilization is shaped by a single dominant geographical environment, ignoring the reality that civilizations often coexist and interact within diverse geographical contexts. Based on this flawed premise, linguistic-geographical determinism also oversimplifies complex historical and cultural factors and relies on limited qualitative data. Evidence from various linguistic cases further refutes the notion that geography alone determines linguistic development. By pointing out the limitations of this dichotomy and uncovering its ideological underpinnings, this study emphasizes the need to move beyond colonial-era frameworks and adopt a more nuanced, diverse perspective on civilization. This work contributes to the broader discourse on postcolonial studies and highlights the importance of critically examining ideological influences in academic research.

Keywords: Linguistic-geographical determinism; Maritime and agricultural civilizations; Postcolonial critique; Ideological influences
Published: October 23, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.HT28280
Volume: CHR Vol.94
pp. 28-33
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