Lecture Notes: Why Facts Don't Convince People About Climate Change

Introduction

• Despite overwhelming scientific consensus, 4 out of 10 Americans remain unconvinced about climate change.
• Even those who accept the science often fail to take action.

Human Brain and Evolutionary Psychology

• Kurt Vonnegut's View: The brain is a poor survival tool.
• John Tooby's Perspective: Modern brains house a 'stone age mind.'
• Humans use evolutionary tools to deal with modern threats.

Response to Threats

• Daniel Gilbert's Insight: People respond more to threats that are:
  • Personal
  • Abrupt
  • Immoral or indecent
  • Immediate
• Climate change is gradual, impersonal, and future-oriented.

Dual Nature of the Brain

• Rider (Rational) vs. Elephant (Emotional):
  • Rational brain knows climate threats.
  • Emotional brain acts only when directly impacted.

Limitations of Rational Thinking

• Daniel Kahneman's Theory:
  • Uncertain future threats lead to inaction.
  • Optimism bias makes people feel immune to risks.

Perception of Climate Change

• Climate change is discussed in future tense:
  • "Caretakers of the future," "Stand up for our future."
• Polls show discrepancy in perceived personal vs. future harm.

Evidence and Belief

• People cherry-pick evidence supporting their beliefs.
• Familiarity with climate threats leads to normalization.

Communication and Uncertainty

• Misinterpretation of scientific uncertainty as lack of confidence.
• Discrepancy between public belief and scientific consensus.
• Overreaction to other threats (e.g., terrorism) vs. climate change.

Social and Psychological Barriers

• Finite Pool of Worry: Limited capacity for concern limits climate focus.
• Framing:
  • Political, religious, and economic frames shape perception.
  • Social conformity influences beliefs and actions.

Climate Change Denial

• Stanley Cohen's Insight:
  • Denial isn't ignorance but choosing not to notice.
  • Risk of social isolation for differing beliefs.

Complexity of Climate Change

• Multi-faceted issue involving:
  • Science
  • Economics
  • Morals
  • Human rights
  • Ideology
  • Technology

Path Forward

• Action vs. Path: Uncertainty about the right path to action.
• Community engagement and exploration of solutions are encouraged.

Further Reading

• Recommended Book: "Don't Even Think About It: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Ignore Climate Change" by George Marshall.

Closing Thoughts

• Call to stay curious and explore solutions.
• Mention of polar bear lobby conspiracy as an example of extreme denial views.