In the 1970s, scientists were concerned about the potential for another global ice age. In the 1990s, the concern became "global warming." Today, we recognize this politically charged issue as "global climate change." Involvement of outspoken politicians (e.g., Al Gore and his 2006 film An Inconvenient Truth) and policymakers has managed to confound much of the science. Some people believe that global climate change is the result of the impact of our species on the environment, while others believe that it is just part of the earth's natural cycle. In the meantime, over two billion of our tax dollars are being spent on projects and initiatives related to climate change. This has become a very divisive issue, with strong opinions on both sides. It also raises the question of who should be trusted when it comes to issues such as these-the people running our governments, or scientists.

After reading both points of view, in your initial response, provide one piece of scientific information that supports the idea that humans are altering the earth's climate, and one piece of scientific information that refutes this idea. In America, what "side" of the climate change issue do we hear about most from politicians? Do you think this could have an influence on the direction in which climate change research is headed? Why or why not? Help