The Extraordinary Costs of Climate Denial (w/ David Lipsky)
Sep 20, 2023
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David Lipsky, New York Times best-selling author, explores climate science history and the industry-funded anti-science movement. He discusses the effectiveness of climate deniers, Republican politicians' involvement, and the heroism of climate scientists. The podcast delves into the history of electricity, early climate change warnings, the 70s energy crisis, and the weaponization of sound science to spread climate denial.
The podcast highlights the tactics used by industries to spread misinformation and doubt about climate change, exemplified by the 1991 Gallup survey and political figures like Newt Gingrich and Frank Luntz.
The challenges faced by climate scientists, including attacks and 'ClimateGate', highlight the importance of supporting and trusting scientific experts in the fight against climate change.
The failures of political leaders and media organizations, such as Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, contributed to the perpetuation of climate denial and hindered meaningful action.
Deep dives
Climate crisis protests highlight the urgency of the issue
The recent protests against fossil fuels in New York City during Climate Week underscore the importance of the climate crisis. Tens of thousands of people attended these massive protests, reflecting the concern and urgency that people feel about the issue. The devastation caused by recent fires, floods, and other climate-related disasters further emphasize the need for action. California Governor Gavin Newsom's lawsuit against fossil fuel companies for their dishonesty about the dangers of their products is a step in the right direction. It is crucial for leaders to recognize the severity of the crisis and take decisive action.
The history of climate denial and its influence on policy
The podcast explores the history of climate denial and its impact on policy. It highlights the tactics used by industries like tobacco to spread misinformation and doubt about climate change. The 1991 Gallup survey, which falsely claimed that the majority of scientists were skeptical about climate change, exemplifies the deliberate efforts to manipulate public opinion. Political figures such as Newt Gingrich and Frank Luntz also played significant roles in spreading climate denial. Their influence, coupled with the lack of action during the Bush administration, hindered progress on addressing the climate crisis.
The challenges faced by climate scientists
The podcast sheds light on the challenges faced by climate scientists, who often find themselves targeted and attacked for their work. The infamous 'ClimateGate' incident in 2009, where stolen emails were used to fuel skepticism and discredit scientists, highlights the adversarial environment they operate in. Despite such challenges, scientists like James Hansen and Ben Santer have shown immense courage and resilience in standing up for the truth. The book underscores their heroism and the importance of supporting and trusting scientific experts in the fight against climate change.
The role of political leaders and media in the climate crisis
The podcast examines the role of political leaders and media in addressing the climate crisis. It exposes the failures of political figures like Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, who hindered progress on climate action. The media's coverage, often giving undue attention and platform to climate deniers, played a significant role in perpetuating skepticism. The manipulation of language, such as using the term 'uncertainty' or 'sound science', further muddied the public discourse and hindered meaningful action. It is critical for leaders and media organizations to prioritize accurate information, support scientists, and take decisive steps towards combating climate change.
The call for urgency and action
The podcast emphasizes the urgent need for action on climate change. The failures of the past, such as the missed opportunities during the Carter and Obama administrations, highlight the consequences of inaction. Despite some positive moments, like Al Gore's 'An Inconvenient Truth' and Rupert Murdoch's acknowledgment of being wrong on climate, progress has been inadequate. The 2009 Copenhagen summit's failure to produce a meaningful international treaty dealt a significant blow to global efforts. However, there is still hope, and the book provides valuable insights into the history and challenges of the climate crisis, inspiring readers to take action.
With his new book, The Parrot and the Igloo: Climate and the Science of Denial, David Lipsky explores the long history of our understanding of climate science and the massive, industry-funded anti-science movement that worked to undermine action and cause an astonishing amount of destruction. In this episode, the New York Times best-selling author explains why he thinks climate deniers were so effective, why they were given such a big platform, and how Republican politicians came to embrace the anti-science cause. He also discusses why he thinks climate scientists are the hero of his story, what electricity can teach us about the history of American innovation, and what surprised him the most looking back on decades of media coverage on climate change.
David Lipsky is the author of the New York Times bestsellers Absolutely American and Although of Course You End Up Becoming Yourself, which was the basis for the movie The End of the Tour. He has written for The New York Times, The New Yorker, Rolling Stone, Harper’s Magazine, and New York, and is a recipient of both the National Magazine Award and the GLAAD Media Award. He teaches writing and literature at New York University.
As always, follow us @climatepod on Twitter and email us at theclimatepod@gmail.com. Our music is "Gotta Get Up" by The Passion Hifi, check out his music at thepassionhifi.com. Rate, review and subscribe to this podcast on iTunes, Spotify, Stitcher, and more! Subscribe to our YouTube channel! Join our Facebook group.
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