Whenever the people are well informed, they can be trusted with their own government. -Thomas Jefferson

A hot-button issue in the American/International Political climate is climate change. This has also been heavily influenced by media interpretation and coverage. The scientific evidence supports the perspective that global climate change is the result of the impact of our species on the environment.

However, some hold the perspective that it is just part of the earth's natural cycle. In the meantime, billions of dollars are being invested in projects and initiatives related to climate change. This has become a very divisive issue, with strong opinions about the topic.

It also raises the question of who should be trusted when it comes to issues such as these-the people running our governments, scientists, or the media.

After reviewing this week's material, in your initial response, consider each perspective. In America, what "side" of the climate change issue do you hear about most from politicians or the media?

Do you think this could have an influence on the direction in which climate change research is headed? Why or why not?