Hidden Brain The Cassandra Curse
Sep 17, 2018
Delve into the psychology of ignored warnings surrounding disasters, starting with a powerful reflection on the Challenger disaster. Explore a chilling Alaskan permafrost tunnel revealing the urgency of climate change through its pungent aroma. Discover the tragic tale of Cassandra, cursed to foresee doom yet never believed. Learn why effective warnings hinge on credibility and urgency, and how political dynamics influence their reception. Through these narratives, uncover the alarming reasons behind humanity's failure to heed significant warnings.
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Permafrost Tunnel Revelation
- Chris Heimstra shows the permafrost tunnel near Fairbanks and describes 40,000 years of frozen organic matter exposed there.
- He and Shankar note the tunnel's smell and visible thawing that signals large carbon release risks.
Permafrost As Climate Feedback
- Thawing permafrost releases carbon that accelerates warming, creating a self-reinforcing feedback loop.
- Scientists estimate permafrost stores about double the carbon currently in the atmosphere.
Researcher’s Frustration With Skepticism
- Chris describes feeling futility because he sees clear evidence of catastrophe but faces skepticism and misinformation from the public.
- He worries about confronting strangers without alienating them while correcting climate falsehoods.
