Climate Change in the American Mind:  Anthony Leiserowitz

Antony's presentation focused on identifying the key perceptions that American's hold towards global warming.  Most of the global warming information that is presented to people doesn't quite connect well.  For example, imagery of melting glaciers is easily comparable to melting ice in a glass of water.  This is a great way to show a relatively immediate impact of warmer temperatures.  However, this does not get people to buy into the long-term effects that melting glaciers will have.  Also, it limits the sense of urgency that people should take action because a majority of the human population does not live near the poles.  The glaciers are at the poles but we are not.  Therefore, it is difficult for people to feel the impact of melting glaciers on a daily basis.  Anthony offered some possible solutions towards resolving global warming before closing his lecture.


I asked Anthony how he would persuade the public to adopt such solutions that would alter their behavior and how they could incorporate such changes into their lifestyle?  He replied with two examples.  The first example he used regarded the shift towards organic produce in the UK.  The starting point for this shift in demand was due to the introduction of fruit smoothies.  He also alluded to the social acceptance of smoking in America.  Although his answer was thorough, I still questioned how adaptable people would become.  Sure they may adopt smaller methods but I am not convinced that people are willing to make very severe behavior changes.  I believe people will change behavior up to a certain point.