Message Not Getting Through

The number of Americans who think global warming is "exaggerated" is growing, reaching a record high of 41%. Why? I think there are a few reasons. First, media coverage of this issue has been atrocious. Giving equal time to lunatics making things up in the name of fairness has undermined the necessity of changing our lifestyles to combat climate change. Second, it's been a cold winter in much of the nation (though certainly not Texas). People have difficulty thinking outside their current experience. It's snowing, therefore climate change is overrated. Third, the closer we get to asking people to make real sacrifices to fight this issue, the more resistance there is going to be to the idea of it. Fourth, scientists have done a poor job communicating their findings.

The combination of all these factors is leading to people ignoring a problem much more profound and with much more serious long-term ramifications than the current economic collapse.