Lifting the Curtain on Climate Denial — Naomi Oreskes — Cleaning Up Redux
Jan 1, 2025
auto_awesome
Naomi Oreskes, a leading historian of science from Harvard University and author of 'Merchants of Doubt,' unpacks the pervasive issue of climate denial. She explores the historical ties between funding sources and scientific integrity, revealing how propaganda shapes public perceptions of climate science. Oreskes draws parallels between tactics used by climate deniers and those of the tobacco industry, emphasizing the need for accountability in addressing climate change. Ultimately, she highlights the power of love and compassion in inspiring collective environmental action.
Disinformation campaigns have distorted public understanding of climate change, drawing parallels with past tactics used in smoking denial campaigns.
Naomi Oreskes' transition from geology to the history of science illustrates how funding influences shape climate discourse and suppress vital discussions.
Legal accountability is emerging as a crucial strategy to counter corporate disinformation on climate science, promoting transparency and public health protection.
Deep dives
The Role of Disinformation in Science
Disinformation campaigns have significantly impacted public perception of scientific consensus, particularly regarding climate change. In examining the tactics of disinformation, the discussion highlights the historical connection between groups that denied the risks of smoking and those questioning climate science. Key figures in these campaigns were involved in shaping narratives that promoted doubt rather than clarity, creating an environment where misinformation could flourish. The conversation underscores the scientific community's struggle to communicate facts effectively in the face of organized opposition.
Historical Context and Personal Journey
Naomi Oreskes shares her personal journey from a background in geology to becoming a historian of science. Her work explores how funding and institutional influences shape scientific research, specifically through an analysis of oceanography's evolution post-World War II. This journey led her to uncover significant discussions on climate change among early oceanographers, highlighting how these conversations were overshadowed by media narratives. Her transition into writing about the intersection of science and public policy emerged from the understanding that scientific consensus was being actively undermined.
Linking Economic Ideologies to Climate Denial
The conversation delves into the ideological roots behind climate skepticism, particularly the anti-government sentiment pervasive in certain economic frameworks. Oreskes reveals that some scientists involved in disinformation campaigns were motivated by a market fundamentalist ideology leading to the rejection of scientific findings on climate change. This perspective links their fear of government intervention in the marketplace to a broader narrative that emphasizes freedom over collective responsibility, complicating efforts to address environmental policies. The implications of these beliefs reinforce the idea that economic ideologies can obstruct necessary climate action.
Legal Redress and Accountability
A noteworthy aspect of the conversation focuses on the legal strategies being employed to hold corporations accountable for their roles in perpetuating climate disinformation. Oreskes discusses ongoing lawsuits against major corporations for their misleading narratives around climate science and their consequences on public health and safety. This legal framework illustrates how litigation can serve as a powerful tool for citizens and scientists to challenge misinformation and seek justice. The conversation emphasizes the potential for legal accountability to reshape corporate behavior and promote transparency in environmental matters.
The Importance of Love and Community Engagement
The discussion concludes with an exploration of the emotional and psychological drivers that can inspire action for environmental causes, emphasizing love as a powerful motivator. Oreskes points out that genuine concern for future generations and the beauty of nature can galvanize individuals and communities to advocate for change. This perspective serves as a reminder that fostering positive emotions around environmental stewardship can lead to collective action and reform. By framing climate action within a context of love and community, there is potential to create a more engaged and proactive society.
Happy New Year from all of us here at Cleaning Up. This week we’re bringing you one from our archive of almost 200 episodes. It’s a conversation Bryony Worthington had with Naomi Oreskes in October 2023, her very first episode as a co-host for Cleaning Up.
Naomi Oreskes is the Henry Charles Lea Professor of the History of Science and Affiliated Professor of Earth and Planetary Sciences at Harvard University. A world-renowned earth scientist, historian and public speaker, she is the author of the best-selling book, Merchants of Doubt, and a leading voice on the role of science in society and the role of disinformation in blocking climate action, a topic that feels more relevant than ever.
Please enjoy, and we’ll be back with Season 14 of Cleaning Up on January 8th.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
