The classical environmental theories erupted from the theories of early theorists who incorporated the environment in the theories of society which were influenced to serve as a basis for contemporary theory or as principles applied in contemporary theory.

Buckle Single factor theory which highlights the importance of the environment in order for nations to reach their peak. This environmental theory is useful in the South African context, as with warm climates comes more production of food and raw materials as the soil will be fertile when it rains.

Huntington’s single factor theory seeks to prove how the rise and fall of civilizations leads to the shift of climatic zones in historical periods through linking climate change and productivity with implications faced by nations over time. This is useful in the South African context; as industrial efficiency is measured by the units produced within a set period of time provided there is a productive climate.

Herbert Spencer’s single factor theory focuses on natural selection that includes survival of the fittest in the social world, where human beings struggle with and against other species for survival in the natural and social universe. In the South African context, individuals who succeed in business and industry through harsh dealings fall under natural selection.