Many liberals are afraid to talk to their conservative friends and neighbors about climate change. They think it is a waste of time and that all conservatives are climate deniers. Their conservative friends have similar feelings about liberals. Here is why liberals and conservatives should talk to each other about climate and how a constructive dialog is possible.
Report
Share
Report
Share
1 of 31
More Related Content
Similar to How Liberals and Conservatives Can Talk About Climate change
Writing to Convince Essay (Position Essay) English 10000 â F.docxericbrooks84875
Â
Writing to Convince Essay (Position Essay)
English 10000 â Fall 2015
Writing Assignment
In the second major essay, you were asked to seek a modern social issue that interests you (perhaps
because of your major, a situation in your life, and/or other curiosity). Now that you have begun
researching that issue, youâre asked to identify a specific argument (typically done by finding a problem
to solve). Then, develop a solution (or at least a partial solution) to that problem and craft an argument
that convinces readers that your position on the issue is valid and workable. You may use information
and research from the rhetorical analysis assignment. Your argument must be related to your
professional or academic goals. These arguments need to be real and personal.
When you write to convince, you need to have
ďˇ a specific purpose in mind,
ďˇ a strong sense of your audience, and
ďˇ an idea of what might be an effective way to convince that audience (rhetorical analysis)
In this essay, you need to take a stand on a controversial idea, issue, or practice and provide sufficient
evidence to support that stand, the goal being that your readers will consider changing their behaviors
or beliefs in order to solve a âproblem.â Because argument asks for change, you cannot defend the
status quo (unless the status quo is being challenged.
Rhetorical Knowledge
Purpose
What exactly is your goal (x is so/x is good/x should be done)? What can you reasonably expect?
Rhetorical Situation
Your relationship as a writer to your audience, your subject, your purpose, and your motivation
(exigency) are all factors that must be taken into account.
Voice and tone
Tone is very important in convincing others to adopt your viewpoint â should you come across strong?
Subdued? Casual? Caustic?
Critical Thinking, Reading, and Writing Strategies
I. Craft a clearly stated, arguable claim â one that is reasonable and do-able.
II. Present your issue in a compelling way.
III. Be aware of your audience(s).
IV. Provide sufficient reasons AND evidence for those reasons.
V. Use rhetorical appeals effectively.
VI. Acknowledge and discuss other perspectives on the issue (counterargument).
VII. Conclude with a Call to Action (how individuals can act to solve the problem, a need for more
research/consideration, etc.).
Grading and Submission Guidelines
Your final draft should include at least five academic sources (but preferably six or sevenâyou
should already have at least two from the Rhetorical Analysis with Annotated Bibliography essay) and
should be:
ďˇ Typed in Times New Roman 12 font and double-spaced
ďˇ 5-7 pages (not counting the Works Cited page)
ďˇ In MLA format, including:
o in-text citations and a Works Cited page
o formatting for how to list your information on the first page
o use of header to note your last name and the page number
Outline for the Position Essay
Reminder: You should be using the .
This document discusses the challenges scientists face in communicating their research findings to decision-makers and the public. It describes how the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) addresses these challenges through rigorous assessment processes. However, adapting to climate change at local levels will require different approaches than those used by the IPCC. Knowledge action networks that include social scientists can help connect research to community-level adaptation by building trust between experts and local leaders.
The document discusses the melting of glaciers due to global warming and the problems that this causes. Glaciers around the world, including the large ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland, have been shrinking and retreating in recent decades. This melting is accelerated by rising global temperatures. The shrinking of glaciers threatens water supplies and will displace millions of people as sea levels rise. Scientists use various techniques like satellite observations, aerial surveys, and satellite gravimetry to measure changes in glacier mass and confirm that ice loss is increasing over the long term.
Climate Change and Media and Information Literacy.pdfYsabelleBesorio1
Â
Media and information literacy is one of the determinants as to whether a pressing problem gets the action it needs. If there is one problem that defies all boundaries, it is climate change. A climate crisis knows nothing about our differences and goals, it only happens because something must have created it. Climate change is a global problem that we are all responsible for but what does Media and Information Literacy have to do with it?
Climate change is not entirely an environmental problem. It is too complex because various interests are involved in this discussion. Media and technologies now have profound effects on our environment and future aside from our digital carbon footprint. Lies and misleading content spread through the Internet, social, and traditional media worsens the problem in more ways than one. Climate misinformation and disinformation can prevent us from seeing our planet's situation and impending fate if we do not act now. Without knowing the intensity and urgency of the problem, nothing will drive us to change something. Climate change denial will hide the truth until there's nothing we can do. Delaying tactics are no better because they delay actions that could have made the difference only if they were done sooner.
Because of technology and digitalization, our fight against climate change is no longer bound to forests, seas, rivers, and mountains among others. The digital space is equally dangerous if it is filled with climate disinformation. This highlights the need for Media and Information Literacy and also discusses how a media and information-literate individual can become a climate warrior. Using my knowledge from the previous modules on how to assess information sources, I was able to compile data and information from reliable sources to present the importance of climate literacy.
The competencies and skills from the course can be used to assess information sources that discuss climate change and our roles in its occurrence. The presentation includes examples of content published by groups that deny climate change and our contribution to it to show how social media can be used to amplify lies and conspiracy theories. Most importantly, the presentation provides ways to fight climate misinformation and disinformation through media and information literacy. Without MIL, we cannot expect climate action because what we do comes from what we know to be true.
This document summarizes the key findings of the American Climate Values 2014 survey. It finds that American perspectives on climate change have become highly polarized along partisan lines. Republicans show more internal divisions on climate issues than differences between the parties. The survey oversampled minority groups to gain independent perspectives. Upcoming releases will analyze connections between climate change and specific themes/sectors. Initial findings show belief in climate change does not correlate to individual behaviors or policy support. However, tying solutions to benefits for Americans could build broader support. The document concludes certain approaches may be most effective for growing public and political backing for climate solutions.
¡ Please first read pages 71 - 90 in textbook (attached).  ¡ Rea.docxoswald1horne84988
Â
¡ Please first read pages 71 - 90 in textbook (attached). Â
¡ Read the lesson 'Is Technology Hazardous to Human Values?' (attached)
¡ view the videos associated with this lesson. Â
Please note, there are a large number of readings and videos associated with this module.  However, you should read and view enough of them to complete the assignment.  Please develop six page paper to answer the the following question:  Should the development of technology be influenced by religious and social values?  In this paper, you may illustrate that both should influence it, or it should be influenced only by religious views, or it should be influenced only by scientific facts. In whatever perspective you take, you must provide illustrative examples of why you have taken this position. Please use resources found in texts, on the web, etc. Please also provide your sources in text and at the end of the paper with references in APA format. Â
Please make sure zero plagiarism
Videos Related to Creationism vs Evolution
Creationism vs Evolution: This video illustrates a poll of the United States citizens regarding our beliefs
about creationism and evolution.
Evolution vs Creationism: Listen to the Scientists: This video presents the views of scientists regarding
evolution and the role of creationism (i.e., intelligent design) in public schools.
Judgment Day: Intelligent Design on Trial (creationism vs evolution): This video illustrates the public
debates associated with intelligent design in Dover, Pennsylvania.
Debate, The Genesis Flood â Creation vs Evolution â Ken T. Hovind vs Till: This video is a debate
between a creationist and an atheist.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6WzaR55rwo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bV4_lVTVa6k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2xyrel-2vI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBJPcbfxJl4
Is Technology Hazardous to Human Values?
Please take the time to review the many links attached to this lesson. It provides further explanations
and illustrations to the concepts addressed in this lesson. The links will also be useful in helping you to
complete the assignment found at the end of the lesson.
There are two main views regarding the compatibility that exists between religion, science, and
technology. The first view is that religion, science, and technology should not be viewed as being
incompatible. In this view, one can find scientists or technologists who believe that they have found
religion in science. The other view is that religion is not compatible with science or technology. In the
views of some, science had forever expunged the notion of a God and that science would eventually
explain everything. This debate has been going on for centuries. However, the debate tended to
subside in the early 1970s. At this time, science came to win the minds and emotions of many educated
Americans. Further, advances in technology promoted the idea that these advances led .
1) Arguing crisis means debating potential solutions to a crucial situation that could lead to significant consequences if not addressed properly.
2) Public crises often spark persuasive debates about various responses across many contexts, including social, institutional, and political spheres.
3) When addressing a crisis through argument, it is important to look beyond the most obvious solutions and consider hidden options, as well as to take into account implications, nuances, and potential outcomes of different approaches.
Discussion 1 REPLYDescription     The source I found w.docxduketjoy27252
Â
This document discusses a source used to support the author's thesis about implementing safe needle disposal programs. The source is from the EPA and discusses the health risks of improper needle disposal. The author chose this source because it is from a credible government agency and supports their argument. Using a reliable government source helps provide credibility.
What the Audience Research Tells us About how to Build Consumer Demand for Re...Justin Rolfe-Redding
Â
The document summarizes research on building consumer demand for renewable energy. It identifies six audience segments regarding their views on global warming, from "alarmed" to "dismissive." It recommends aggressively targeting all audiences with unique, values-oriented messaging from trusted sources. Messages should focus on renewable energy benefits and connect through appropriate actions and messengers. Overall, communication should begin and end with the audience's mindset.
The document summarizes research on building consumer demand for renewable energy. It identifies six audience segments regarding their views on global warming, from "alarmed" to "dismissive." It recommends aggressively targeting all audiences with unique, values-oriented messaging from trusted sources. Messages should focus on renewable energy benefits and be repeated clearly and often to have impact. Overall, the research shows supporting policies like renewable portfolio standards are effective at increasing renewable energy support across audiences.
This document summarizes strategies used to undermine public acceptance of climate change science and discusses ways to more effectively engage the public on this issue. It notes that corporate interests have funded front groups and think tanks to manufacture doubt about climate science and make lack of certainty a political issue. As a result, news media often portray climate science as a two-sided controversy when there is actually a scientific consensus. It suggests joining online networks for information and action, developing new communication strategies, and promoting a values-based debate around climate solutions rather than perpetuating manufactured controversies.
This document summarizes a paper addressing climate change and government policy. It reconciles criticisms from Lindzen and Hayward regarding the IPCC's view of anthropogenic climate change. Two studies found over 90% of peer-reviewed articles support the IPCC's conclusion of a human cause. The paper argues government should mitigate greenhouse gas emissions through a cap-and-trade system to reduce costs and benefits of carbon reduction policies. It concludes the Obama administration should immediately implement cap-and-trade to lower emission levels.
This document discusses building a civic science culture to bridge the divide between policymakers and the public on issues related to science. It provides an overview of the current polarized political environment and issues like climate change. It then discusses best practices for science communication, such as identifying opinion leaders, diversifying policy options, framing conversations appropriately, investing in boundary organizations, and coordinating strategies on key issues. The goal is to promote more effective dialogue and decision-making on complex science-related challenges.
Compexity and Climate: Crash in the World's Food SupplyPaul H. Carr
Â
MIT professor Jay Forrester developed system dynamics, which analyzes complex social systems. He suggested counterintuitive solutions often fail with complex systems as causes and effects can be distant in time and space. Forrester and others like Dennis Meadows predicted issues like food shortages, which Meadows now expects could crash by 2030 due to climate change impacts disrupting agriculture. System dynamics examines unintuitive behaviors to better address root problems versus surface symptoms.
The document provides guidelines for writing effective editorials. It discusses focusing on a central theme, understanding viewpoints that need to be refuted, making inductive arguments based on concrete examples, ensuring moral evaluations are fact-based, and relying on readers' implicit knowledge and values. The guidelines emphasize presenting a concise argument centered around a clear theme, using evidence to refute opposing views, and justifying conclusions and language through factual induction rather than deduction or unsupported claims.
Media as a toolLook for indicators of biased. Example media dona.docxARIV4
Â
1. John Kingdon's "garbage can" model of agenda-setting and policy formulation describes three streams that influence policymaking: the problem stream, policy stream, and political stream. When these streams converge, a policy window opens where issues can be addressed.
2. To advance their climate change agenda, WWF could use Kingdon's model by keeping the issue prominent in the problem stream, developing policy solutions in the policy stream, and looking for opportunities in the political stream like elections or disasters.
3. The media could both help and hinder WWF's cause. Media coverage can magnify issues but also follows rather than leads, so WWF would need to actively promote their framing of climate
New Environmentalism: We co-founded Energy for Humanity focused on two of the great environmental and humanitarian challenges we face in this century: how to dramatically cut carbon emissions to avoid catastrophic climate change within our own lifetimes and that of our children, and secondly, enabling billions of people to achieve the modern standards quality of living. Both of these challenges have one thing in common: the energy we use to power the world.
The Climate Reality Project - 2017 - Be The Voice Of Reality (Action Kit)Selassie Networks
Â
The document provides 12 actions individuals can take to advocate for addressing climate change and be a voice of reality. Some of the key actions include talking to friends and family about climate change solutions in a hopeful and personal way, being an activist online by sharing facts and calling out denial, and contacting elected officials to pressure them to support clean energy policies. The document encourages readers to take simple but meaningful actions to raise awareness and join the global climate movement.
Similar to How Liberals and Conservatives Can Talk About Climate change (20)
This document discusses the importance of reuploading revised versions of slideshows on Slideshare without changing the URL. It allows for short-term error corrections, long-term revisions to keep content up to date, and for classroom materials to link to the latest version. Although Slideshare removed the reupload feature, users can request its return by searching for "Reupload" on the support page and asking them to bring it back due to its value. The document encourages users to submit feedback to potentially have the feature restored if there is widespread demand.
The document discusses the concept of the Non-Accelerating Inflation Rate of Unemployment (Nairu). The Nairu represents the lowest level of unemployment an economy can sustain before wages and prices begin to rapidly increase. It captures both parts of the Federal Reserve's dual mandate to achieve maximum employment and price stability. However, estimating the precise Nairu is difficult because the relationship between unemployment and inflation has changed over time and the Phillips Curve is no longer stable. Nonetheless, the Federal Reserve monitors unemployment relative to estimates of the Nairu when making decisions around interest rates and monetary policy.
This document provides a tutorial on consumer and producer surplus. It explains that the demand curve represents how much consumers will buy at different prices or the maximum consumers will pay for each unit. Consumer surplus is the difference between what consumers actually pay and the maximum they would have paid, which is the area under the demand curve above the market price. The supply curve represents the minimum price producers will accept to supply each unit or their marginal costs. Producer surplus is the difference between the revenue earned and total costs, which is the area above the supply curve but below the market price. The combined consumer and producer surplus represents the total gains from trade.
1) The document discusses why economists fear deflation, noting that sustained deflation can interfere with the smooth operation of the economy.
2) Deflation becomes problematic when nominal interest rates hit 0%, as further deflation causes real interest rates to rise, discouraging borrowing and economic activity. Unexpected deflation can also cause losses for banks by reducing the value of loans and collateral.
3) Deflation limits the effectiveness of monetary policy tools like interest rate cuts once rates hit 0%, and alternative tools like quantitative easing have had mixed results in stimulating economies.
4) Deflation also creates challenges for labor markets, as workers resist nominal wage cuts even if they only match falling prices, which can lead to higher
US GDP Grows at 5 Percent in Q3 2014, Best of RecoveryEd Dolan
Â
The US GDP grew at an annual rate of 5% in the third quarter of 2014, the fastest growth of the economic recovery. This is an upward revision from the previous estimate of 3.9% growth and follows 4.6% growth in the second quarter. Strong growth was seen in consumption, investment, and exports. By the third quarter, inflation and unemployment rates were close to the targets set by the Federal Reserve, indicating the economy was approaching full recovery.
The Economics of a Price-Smoothing Oil TaxEd Dolan
Â
An oil importing country can protect itself from the adverse effects of price volatility and encourage energy conservation by implementing a tax that varies inversely with the global oil price, thereby smoothing the domestic price.
Government agencies reported US GDP growth at a 3.6 percent in Q3. The economy added 203,000 jobs in November and unemployment fell to 7 percent, a new low for the recovery
Banks may take excessive risks due to contagion effects, moral hazard, and agency problems. Contagion effects can cause bank failures to spread from one bank to others. Moral hazard arises from deposit insurance which can encourage banks to take greater risks. Agency problems occur when bank executives are incentivized to pursue high risk strategies that benefit themselves rather than shareholders and depositors. These issues suggest banks may require regulation to limit their risk-taking.
US Adds 204,000 Jobs in October Despite ShutdownEd Dolan
Â
The US added 204,000 new jobs in October. The unemployment rate edged up by less than a tenth of a percent. The data were muddled by the government shutdown
US GDP Growth Revised Downward on Falling ExportsEd Dolan
Â
The US Bureau of Economic Analysis revised US GDP growth in the first quarter of 2013 down to 1.8% from the previous estimate of 2.4%. This represents a slower rate of growth than the previous quarter. Exports declined for the second consecutive quarter as the global economy slowed, while government spending cuts continued to drag on overall growth, referred to as "fiscal drag". Consumption remained the largest contributor to growth.
Breakup of the Ruble Area: Lessons for the EuroEd Dolan
Â
After the Soviet Union was dissolved, the 15 successor states for a time shared the ruble as their common currency. The breakup of the ruble area holds lessons for the euro.
Emergency response preparedness for Monsoon in humanitarian response.Mohammed Nizam
Â
Emergency Preparedness for Monsoon presentation will help to know the protection risks due to heavy monsoon in refugee camps, emergency response plan, anticipatory action plan, challenges for monsoon and mitigation measures.
Novel biosynthesized nanosilver impregnated heat modified montmorillonite cla...Open Access Research Paper
Â
We report here the preparation of highly stabilized nanosilver (AgNp) impregnated clay composites by the biological method. Characterizations by various techniques indicate that the silver nanoparticles were intercalated into montmorillonite clay k10 (MMT k10) composite. The adsorption of malachite green dye onto silver nanoparticles impregnated clay (Ag/MMT K10) and calcined clay (Ag/CMMT K10) in aqueous solution was investigated. Experiments were performed out as function of different dosages (1-3g/L). pH (4.7, 6.7 and 8.7) and temperature (30-60oC).The equilibrium adsorption data of cationic dye on both (Ag/MMT K10) and calcined clay (Ag/CMMT K10) were investigated by Langmuir and Freundlich models. The maximum adsorption capability (k) has been found to be 34.3- 44.3mg/g. High adsorptive nature of the calcined clay Ag/CMMT K10 provided reasonable dye removal capacity. The kinetics of cationic dye adsorption suitably followed the pseudo- first and second order rate expression which shows that intraparticle diffusion plays an important role in the mechanism of adsorption. The experimental results indicate that calcined clay Ag/CMMT K10 is potential material for adsorption of cationic dye from aqueous solutions.
Toxicity assessment of dispersit SPC 1000 on Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas...Open Access Research Paper
Â
Unsustainable techniques, human activities, and laws used in the exploration and extraction of petroleum resources have wreaked havoc on the environment of the Niger Delta Region. This research assessed the toxicity of oil spill dispersant- Dispersit SPC 1000 on Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas spp. in water habitats. The bacteria were isolated following standard procedures by the spread plate technique. Percentage log survival was used as the toxicity index. The result of the findings showed that the survival rate decreased with increased concentration of Dispersit SPC 1000 and as the exposure periods increased while the mortality rate increased. The study also investigated the susceptibility of the test organisms to the toxicant concentrations and the result revealed a significant difference between the toxicant concentration and the susceptibility of the test isolates though the degree of toxicity differed in the isolates studied. It was observed that Dispersit SPC 1000 exerted a greater toxic effect on Pseudomonas spp. than on E. coli. The result of the 24th-hour acute toxicity of the toxicant at various concentrations showed that Dispersit SPC 1000 was more toxic to Escherichia coli (386.93) than Pseudomonas spp (459.72) in Freshwater and more toxic to Pseudomonas spp (15.96) than Escherichia coli (1293.96) in Marine water. This was evident in the lower LC50 for Escherichia coli in freshwater and Pseudomonas spp. in marine water.
Toxicity assessment of dispersit SPC 1000 on Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas...
Â
How Liberals and Conservatives Can Talk About Climate change
1. Economics Issues from
Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
How Liberals and
Conservatives Can Have a
Constructive Dialog about
Climate Change
Posted January 27, 2016
Terms of Use: These slides are provided under Creative Commons License AttributionâShare Alike 3.0 . You are free
to use these slides as a resource for your economics classes together with whatever textbook you are using. If you like
the slides, you may also want to take a look at my textbook, Introduction to Economics, from BVT Publishing.
!!!
???
3. Donât Fear Dialog
ď˛ Many liberals are afraid to talk to
their conservative friends about
climate change
ď˛Conservativesâ minds are made up
ď˛They are all deniers
ď˛ Conservatives are afraid, too
ď˛Liberalsâ minds are made up
ď˛Climate change is just a trick to
mask a big-government agenda
ď˛ Here are some reasons why dialog
is not only possible, but necessary!
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
!!!
???
4. Reason 1: Opinions differ, but not as much as you might think
ď˛ 75% of liberal Democrats and 54%
of conservative Republicans think
climate change is happening and
human activity is contributing
ď˛ Only 6% of liberal democrats and
only 9% percent of conservative
Republicans think climate change is
not happening at all
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
5. The real debate is over climate sensitivity
ď˛ Climate sensitivity means
the amount of warming that
occurs if CO2
concentrations double
ď˛ Most liberals accept
estimates used by NASA,
IPCC, and other
mainstream organizations
ď˛Bars in chart give NASA
estimates of sensitivity
ď˛The latest IPCC report
gives a likely range of 1.5
to 4.5o C
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
6. Deniers are rare even among skeptical scientists
ď˛ There are few if any outright
global warming deniers left
even among scientists who
characterize themselves as
âskepticsâ or âdissidentsâ
ď˛ Instead, they point to
sensitivity estimates in the
lower half of the IPCC range
ď˛ This chart shows that many
recent estimates fall in this
low range for both long-run
(ECS) and short-run (TCR)
sensitivity
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
7. Lower sensitivity does not justify doing nothing
ď˛ Both liberals and conservatives
should be willing to accept lower
sensitivity estimates as a
framework for dialog
ď˛ A focus on high estimates leads to
polarization between alarmism and
denialism
ď˛ Low sensitivity does not justify
doing nothingâit just means there
is a slightly longer window of
opportunity to take constructive
action before serious harm occurs
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
Range of future temperatures as
forecast by the IPCC
Source: https://www.ipcc.ch/publications_and_data/ar4/wg1/en/spmsspm-
projections-of.html
8. Reason 2: People want more face-to-face discussion
ď˛ Many liberals are
content to leave
climate issues to
scientists and the
mainstream media
ď˛ Conservatives are
more likely to trust
what family, friends,
and neighbors say
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
ď˛ 65% of Americans are interested in hearing
about climate change*
ď˛ 71% of all Americans* (but only 38% of
conservatives**) trust scientists
ď˛ The mainstream media are the most
frequent source of news about climate
change, but only 27% of conservatives***
trust mainstream media
ď˛ 67% of Americans trust what family and
friends tell them, but only 16% hear family
and friends talk about climate change at
least once a month*
Data sources:
* http://environment.yale.edu/climate-
communication/files/Global-Warming-CCAM-March-
2015.pdf;
**http://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2012/03/29/study-
conservatives-trust-of-science-hits-all-time-low-
*http://www.gallup.com/poll/176042/trust-mass-media-
returns-time-low.aspx
9. Reason 3: Both sides can learn from dialog
No matter how sure you are of
your own point of view, you
cannot truly understand it until
you test it against opposing
opinions held by others
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
âHe who knows only his own side of the case knows little
of that. His reasons may be good, and no one may have
been able to refute them. But if he is equally unable to
refute the reasons on the opposite side, if he does not so
much as know what they are, he has no ground for
preferring either opinion... Nor is it enough that he should
hear the opinions of adversaries from his own teachers,
presented as they state them, and accompanied by what
they offer as refutations. He must be able to hear them
from persons who actually believe them...he must know
them in their most plausible and persuasive form.â
âJohn Stuart Mill
On Liberty
11. Facing the Challenge of Confirmation bias
ď˛ Conservatives and liberals are prone to
confirmation biasâthe tendency to
pay more attention to sources that
agree with what we already think. We
get much of our news from âecho
chambersâ where everyone agrees
ď˛ People are resistant to information that
is inconsistent with prior beliefs
ď˛ Confirmation bias poses a challenge to
dialog across ideological lines
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
Echo chamber at the
Dresden University of
Technology
12. Framing is the Key
ď˛ Proper framing is the key to overcoming
confirmation bias
ď˛ If liberals want conservatives to listen to
what they say about climate change, they
should present a message that is
perceived as consistent with other
conservative beliefs
ď˛ The same goes for conservativesâin
discussing climate change with liberals,
emphasize shared values, avoid
accusatory language
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
13. Unproductive Framing on the Liberal Side
ď˛ Alarmism does not resonate well with
conservativesâit turns listeners off and
triggers denial
ď˛ The 2009 climate documentary film
âAge of Stupidâ illustrates how not to
approach the topic
ď˛Do not start by insulting your audience
ď˛Do not start with the worst possible
case. (This film assumes a rate of
warming that is at or beyond the upper
limit supported by IPCC models)
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
Promotional poster. Fair use exemption claimed for
purpose of criticism and commentary
14. Unproductive Framing on the Conservative Side
Accusations of bad faith are a bad way to
start a constructive dialog:
ď˛ âIf you look at global warming alarmists,
they don't like to look at the actual facts and
the data.â
ď˛ âToday, the global warming alarmists are
the equivalent of the flat-Earthers. It used
to be . . . accepted scientific wisdom the
Earth is flat, and this heretic named Galileo
was branded a denier.â
ď˛ Global warming is a Trojan horse for
"liberal politicians who want government
power over the economy, the energy sector
and every aspect of our lives."
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
Ted Cruz quotes from
Washington Post,
March 25, 2015
15. Two Ideas for Good Framing
ď˛ Messages that emphasize shared
values of responsibility, duty, and
stewardship form a good basis for
dialog, especially when Christian
conservatives take part
ď˛ Messages that emphasize risk-
reduction, markets, and property rights
form a good basis for discussion
among people who have a background
in business
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
âPreservation of our
environment is not a partisan
challenge; itâs common
sense. Our physical health,
our social happiness, and
our economic well-being will
be sustained only by all of us
working in partnership as
thoughtful, effective
stewards of our natural
resources.â
âRonald Reagan
July 11, 1984
16. Questionable Framing: Emphasis on Top-Down Regulation
Messages that emphasize top-down
government regulation and increased
government expenditures are a poor
starting point for dialog with conservatives
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
Just 10 percent of
conservatives would support
a candidate who says:
âClimate change is an urgent
challenge and therefore we
need to strengthen the EPAâs
restrictions on carbon
emissions and signiďŹcantly
subsidize clean energy.â
Source: Clearpath.org
http://polling.clearpath.org/docs/clearpath
_survey_report.pdf
17. Better framing: Emphasis on market-based approaches
Policy proposals that emphasize
incentives and market-based approaches
are a better basis for liberal-conservative
dialog than the command-and-control
philosophy
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
71 percent of conservatives
would support a candidate
who says:
âClimate change is a
challenge, and we need an
approach that is market-
based instead of one driven
by more top-down
government regulation
Source: Clearpath.org
http://polling.clearpath.org/docs/clearpath
_survey_report.pdf
18. Better framing: Emphasis on risk management
ď˛ Both liberals and conservatives
understand the idea of insurance
ď˛ Conservative support for climate action
rises when the issue is framed as one
of risk management
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
75 percent of conservatives
would support a candidate
who says:
âEven if we arenât certain
what the climate will be
decades from now, we
should accelerate clean
energy now to minimize the
risk of serious climate
change effects or the need
for harsh regulation.â
Source: Clearpath.org
http://polling.clearpath.org/docs/clearpath
_survey_report.pdf
19. Better framing: Emphasize a full range of benefits
Conservatives are more likely to get on
board when it is pointed out that clean
energy is a good thing regardless of who
is right about climate change
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
82 percent of conservatives
would support a candidate
who says:
âWe should expand the use
of clean energy regardless
of the debate over climate,
because it will reduce our
dependence on foreign oil,
reduce air pollution, and
improve public health.â
Source: Clearpath.org
http://polling.clearpath.org/docs/clearpath
_survey_report.pdf
21. The environment vs. the economy
ď˛ Many progressives see climate
change as such a serious threat
that we should stop it at all
costs
ď˛ Their first instinct is to support
top-down regulations to stop
corporate pollution and force
consumers to change their
lifestyles
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
ď˛ Conservatives who show concern
about climate change worry more
about the cost of environmental
regulation
ď˛ They favor market-based policies
that provide incentives and
encourage innovation
22. Climate Change Action is Good Business
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
ď˛ Steps to reduce global warming are
good business practice
ď˛Product design
ď˛Clean production methods
ď˛Support for environmental causes
ď˛ A third of all consumers reward
companies that behave responsibly
by buying their products
ď˛ A quarter of consumers have
punished irresponsible companies
23. Economists Left and Right Agree on a Carbon Tax
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
Conservative and liberal
economists agree that the most
effective way to moderate climate
change is through a carbon tax
ď˛ Conservative perspective on
carbon tax: ClimateUnplugged
ď˛ Liberal perspective on carbon
tax: Citizens Climate Lobby
Larry Summers
Chief Economist
for Barack Obama
Greg Mankiw
Chief Economist for
George W. Bush
24. Key Framing Issue: Use of Carbon Tax Revenues
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
ď˛ Support for a carbon
tax depends critically
on how revenues from
the tax are used
ď˛ Support is low when no
use of revenue is
specified
Source: Issues in Energy and Environmental Policy, No. 13,
2014 U. Michigan and Muhlenberg College
http://closup.umich.edu/files/ieep-nsee-2014-spring-carbon-
tax.pdf
25. Support is stronger for a tax-and-rebate plan
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
ď˛ Support for a carbon
tax increases among
both Democrats and
Republicans when
revenue is returned as
a rebate
Source: Issues in Energy and Environmental Policy, No. 13,
2014 U. Michigan and Muhlenberg College
http://closup.umich.edu/files/ieep-nsee-2014-spring-carbon-
tax.pdf
26. Support is stronger still if revenue used for research
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
ď˛ Support is stronger still
if revenues are used to
fund clean energy
research
ď˛ This variant gets
majority support from
both Democrats and
Republicans
Source: Issues in Energy and Environmental Policy, No. 13,
2014 U. Michigan and Muhlenberg College
http://closup.umich.edu/files/ieep-nsee-2014-spring-carbon-
tax.pdf
28. Conservative-leaning Climate Websites
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
ď˛ Climate, Etc. ( http://judithcurry.com/ ) is a forum for cautious but open-minded climate
scientists. Conservatives who read this will learn that real climate scientists, even those
who criticize the political agenda of liberal climate activists, do not deny that the climate
is changing and that human activity is a significant cause of global warming
ď˛ Climate Unplugged ( https://climateunplugged.com/ ) offers fresh ideas to advance
effective climate and energy policy from libertarian and conservative perspectives. It
strongly supports carbon taxes as the most efficient and effective policy for dealing with
climate change.
ď˛ The Carbon Tax Center ( http://www.carbontax.org/ ) is a nonpartisan organization that
seeks to build a consensus for a carbon tax across the political spectrum.
ď˛ ClearPath ( http://www.clearpath.org/ ) is an organization founded by a wealthy former
entrepreneur to show why clean energy should be a conservative cause
ď˛ R Street Institute ( http://www.rstreet.org/tag/carbon-pricing/ ) maintains a page with
many links to conservative policy views on climate change
29. Liberal-leaning Climate Websites
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
ď˛ RealClimate (http://www.realclimate.org/ ) Is an explicitly nonpolitical forum for climate
research that includes contributions from climate scientists whose work is often cited by
liberals
ď˛ Climate Progress (http://thinkprogress.org/climate/issue/ )is the climate page of the
website ThinkProgress.org
ď˛ Citizensâ Climate Lobby (http://citizensclimatelobby.org/ ) is officially nonpartisan but is
regarded favorably by many liberals and progressives
ď˛ Center for American Progress (https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/green/view/ )
discusses climate change on the âenergy and environmentâ section of its website
30. Further Reading on All Sides of the Issue
January 27, 2016 Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
ď˛ âWhy Conservatives Should Love a Carbon Tax,â Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog, July 1, 2013. First in a
series that also covers why progressives and libertarians, too, should love a carbon tax.
ď˛ âOne Answer to Global Warming: A New Tax,â Greg Mankiw (formerly George W. Bushâs Chief
Economic Adviser), NYT, Sept. 16, 2007
ď˛ âA Progressive Carbon Tax Will Fight Climate Change and Stimulate the Economy,â Richard W.
Caperton, Center for American Progress
ď˛ But Will the Planet Notice? Gernot Wagner. In this book Wagner tells his fellow liberals why
climate change policy needs a grounding in sound economics.
ď˛ âWhy We Support a Revenue-Neutral Carbon Tax,â George P. Shultz (Nixon Treas. Sec and
Reagan Sec. of State) and Gary Becker (Nobel Prize in Economics)
ď˛ âBreaking the Link between a Conservative World View and Climate Skepticism,â The
Conversation, Oct. 29, 2015 Prof. Andrew Hoffman, U. Mich.
ď˛ âA Conservative Answer to Climate Change,â The American Conservative, Dec. 9, 2015, Catrina
Rorke, R Street Institute
ď˛ âClimate Change: Itâs Time for a Conservative Alternative,â Environmental Law Institute, Sept.
2013, Eli Lehrer, President, R Street Institute
31. Click on the image to learn more about
Ed Dolanâs Econ texts
or visit www.bvtpublishing.com
For more posts and slideshows, Follow Ed Dolanâs Econ Blog
Follow @DolanEcon on Twitter