ABSTRACT
A modern reader, investigating the theory of 'climate,' or environment as it applies to politics, which he proceeds to expound, must be struck by the fact that some of his most important statements –the distribution of the temperaments, for instance –appear to be made quite arbitrarily, for no explanations are given. Moreover, for Bodin, since he rejected the doctrine that form is latent in matter and the stars merely elicit it, the stars are actually the source from which the multiplicity of forms immediately proceeds. As knowledge of these extremes increased, the seven climates lost their peculiar importance. This may be the reason why Bodin never divides the world in this way, but considers only the three fundamental types of climate –hot, cold, and temperate. When Bodin discusses configuration as the third constituent of environment, he selects the same features as important, mountains –especially their aspect –marshes and tempestuous winds.
