Shocked Climate Disinformation
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Nov 10, 2025 Bob Inglis, a former Republican congressman and conservative climate advocate, reflects on his journey of promoting climate action within his party, despite the political backlash he faced. John Cook, a researcher on climate misinformation, reveals how fossil fuel companies have intentionally spread doubt about climate science. They discuss the psychological and political barriers to climate policy, dissecting disinformation tactics that undermine public consensus. The conversation highlights the urgent need for framing climate solutions in ways that resonate with conservative values.
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A Congressman Paid Politically For Climate Stance
- Bob Inglis described how his political stance cost him his seat after he refused to lie about President Obama and later supported climate action.
- He lost badly in the 2010 primary and called the defeat a "spectacular faceplant."
Doubt As A Deliberate Delay Tactic
- John Cook explains industry-driven doubt aimed to confuse the public and delay action on climate change.
- The tactics shifted public debate to question scientific consensus and thus stall policy responses.
Trips To Antarctica And The Reef Changed Minds
- Bob Inglis recounted a science committee trip where seeing Antarctic ice cores and the Great Barrier Reef changed his views.
- He described the reef scientist as "worshipping God" in showing nature's wonders, marking a turning point for him.