Physics Colloquium, April 27, 2004

On the meaning of global warming claims -- or When Anxious, Alarm Accompanies Innocent Climate.

Richard Lindzen

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Despite the claim that global warming is a scientifically contentious issue, there really is relatively little disagreement among scientists on many of the basic aspects of the issue. The real problem in public communication is that simple facts about climate are often presented, and/or perceived as having ominous implications -- even when they don't. Although there is certainly room for skepticism, the emphasis on controversy often gets in the way of understanding the meaning of what is agreed on.

3:30 p.m., Smith Laboratory, Room 1005

Refreshments served in Smith 1094 at 3:00 p.m.