The science of climate change: The clouds of unknowing

Economist | Mar. 18, 2010 (News Analysis)

There are lots of uncertainties in climate science. But that does not mean it is fundamentally wrong

In any complex scientific picture of the world there will be gaps, misperceptions and mistakes. Whether your impression is dominated by the whole or the holes will depend on your attitude to the project at hand. You might say that some see a jigsaw where others see a house of cards. Jigsaw types have in mind an overall picture and are open to bits being taken out, moved around or abandoned should they not fit. Those who see houses of cards think that if ... Full Story »

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Related Comments: Climate Change (9)

4.4

by Dwight Rousu - Mar. 18, 2010

After getting past the intro paragraphs rehash of "scandals" about climate scientists, the author settles down and provides a reasonable tour of the science of climate change. Of course, an expert peer review would help on the technical points.

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4.5

by Walter Cox - Mar. 18, 2010

Certainly one of the most comprehensive and balanced articles I have ever read on climate change. The author gives respect to both polarized positions, while endorsing the sensible viewpoint that we ought to do what we can to limit greenhouse gas emissions. Kudos.

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4.0

by Patricia L'Herrou - Mar. 20, 2010

this article uses much detailed information to explain the data about climate change factors which doubters use to substantiate their claims about what's happening. the article illustrates and discusses the complexities of factors and information along with the uncertainties which the science of climate takes into account. while the writers indicate that the majority of scientists are correct, the focus here tends to make understandable how skeptics use the complexity upon which doubts are based.

i learned a lot about this science from this article which includes factors of which i was unaware, including water vapor and clouds.

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