Steven Koonin: Stop POLITICIZING Climate Science! (#344)
Sep 6, 2023
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Renowned theoretical physicist, Steven Koonin, challenges the dominant narrative on global warming in his provocative book. He discusses the politicization of climate science, the role of climate scientists, the abundant carbon in the ground, accusations and denials, and the indistinguishability of advanced technology from magic. Additionally, he shares advice to his younger self and explores the potential of artificial intelligence in various fields.
Separating politics from the science of climate change is crucial to prevent misrepresentation and distortion of facts.
Improving observations, critical thinking, and communication of uncertainty are essential for advancing climate modeling.
The economic costs of addressing climate change must be balanced with global needs, intergenerational equity, and risk tolerance.
Deep dives
The Role of Politics in Climate Change
The podcast episode explores the politicization of climate change and its impact on public perception and understanding. Dr. Steven Kuhnen, a physicist and former Undersecretary for Science, discusses the need to separate politics from the science of climate change. He emphasizes the importance of relying on the official reports and research literature to understand what is known and not known about climate science, instead of media or political narratives. Dr. Kuhnen criticizes scientists who mix their role as informers with that of policy persuaders and highlights the challenges of distinguishing natural variability from human-induced changes in the climate system.
Understanding Climate Modeling
The podcast delves into the complexities and limitations of climate modeling. Dr. Kuhnen explains that climate models are large computer programs that simulate the behavior of various components of the climate system. He discusses the challenges of modeling processes like cloud formation and natural climate variability accurately. Dr. Kuhnen suggests that improving observations at smaller scales, investing in professional statisticians to analyze data, and encouraging more critical thinking in climate modeling are crucial for advancing climate science. He also highlights the need for better communication of uncertainty and probabilities associated with climate change predictions.
Balancing Risks and Benefits in Climate Change Mitigation
The podcast episode explores the question of whether the economic costs of reaching net zero emissions by 2050 are worth the potential risks of catastrophic climate change. Dr. Kuhnen emphasizes that this is a values discussion and a decision that cannot be made solely by scientists. He suggests that the assessment of risks, uncertainties, and benefits should consider the global context and the differing needs of developing countries. Dr. Kuhnen highlights the importance of balancing the demand for reliable and affordable energy with the need to address climate change, taking into account intergenerational equity, risk tolerance, and economic factors.
Examining the Impact of Temperature Extremes on Global Deaths
The podcast episode discusses a study published in The Lancet, a reputable medical journal, which analyzes the deaths attributed to temperature extremes over the past 20 years. The study reveals that globally, approximately 5 million deaths occurred from 2001 to 2018 due to temperature extremes. However, it is important to note that 90% of these deaths were caused by extreme cold, while only 10% were caused by extreme warmth. The podcast highlights that the warming of the globe has led to a decrease in deaths from cold, resulting in more people being alive despite the increase in temperature-related deaths.
Exploring the Viability of Carbon Reduction Technologies
During the podcast, the viability of reducing carbon emissions in various ways is discussed. Nuclear fusion and high-temperature superconductivity are presented as two potential breakthrough technologies. However, it is emphasized that while these technologies exist, it is crucial to consider their economic feasibility and scalability. Additionally, the podcast raises the challenge of carbon capture and removal from the atmosphere. Different methods, such as enhancing plant growth and thermochemical capture, are mentioned. It is pointed out that while progress is being made, these technologies are not yet economically viable or scaled up. The overall message is that while technological advancements are important, there is a need to carefully evaluate their practicality and impact on other societal needs.
Is climate science being politicized? Are facts being misrepresented and distorted to fit a certain narrative? Are climate scientists trying to dictate policy instead of investigating the actual truth? And what does it mean to be accused of being a global warming denier?
Here today to discuss this controversial topic with me is no other than Steven Koonin! Steven is a renowned theoretical physicist and has recently been working on urban studies and government policies.
He has also published a very provocative book, Unsettled: What Climate Science Tells Us, What It Doesn't, and Why It Matters. The book caused a lot of controversy as it challenged the dominant narrative on global warming, and today, he is here to state his case!
