That incredibly rapid rate of change—
10 times faster than any change recorded over the past 65 million years—
is extinction-worthy
....!!??
I'm only really a passive observer of the great climate debacle and read with interest the various comments here, whilst I have no claim to expertise in meteorology, I also tend to read the odd scientific articles written by both pro and anti warmers. They offer differing views as one would expect from scientists, add to that the mix the “informed” journalist and their take on the popularist consumable re-interpretation of the science and then it gets emotive as per the above from the linked article.
So, for what it’s worth my take, well;
Is the planet getting warmer… yes it probably is
Is this solely caused by humans… no it probably isn’t
Is there something we should do about it… yes there probably is
Will it make a difference… no it probably won’t
Are we all going to die… bollocks
Like anything when Governments, quasi-government bodies and lobbyists become involved in social, economic or scientific endeavours I look at motive and agenda; who gains and why? What is the benefit of proving that there is no imminent social or economic threat or outcome from a global warming scenario – if you prove a negative then the status quo surely prevails. If, on the other hand your “science proves” a significant threat of a likely occurrence or outcome then you create a dynamic – who, what, why, where and when. That opens up the delicious possibility of creating a social movement and industry which creates a demand for consequence and remedy: bringing us back to Governments, quasi-government bodies and lobbyists;
Government = tax
Quasi-government bodies = funding
Lobbyists = influence
The scientists of course being the guardians of fact suddenly find an ear and a ready market for their services in all of the above organisations - for a fee of course.