Today, Explained

The six D-words of climate change

12 snips
Sep 21, 2023
Michael E. Mann, a leading climate scientist and author, dives into the six D-words crucial for understanding climate change this Climate Week. He discusses the 'hockey stick graph,' revealing alarming temperature trends and collective skepticism towards climate science. Mann emphasizes the shift from denial to division tactics used by industries like ExxonMobil. He critiques the deflection of responsibility, stressing that individuals alone can't fix this crisis. The conversation culminates with a call for urgent, systemic action to secure our future.
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ANECDOTE

Hockey Stick Curve

  • Michael Mann's "hockey stick curve" graph illustrates Earth's temperature changes over the past millennium.
  • It shows relatively stable temperatures for centuries followed by a sharp rise coinciding with the Industrial Revolution.
ANECDOTE

Attacks and Intimidation

  • The hockey stick graph became a symbol in the climate debate, drawing attacks from fossil fuel interests.
  • Mann faced personal attacks, including receiving a white powder in the mail, intended to discredit his work.
INSIGHT

Shifting Tactics

  • Outright climate denialism has decreased due to the increasing visibility of climate change impacts.
  • However, fossil fuel interests have shifted to "softer" denial tactics.
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