Annu. Rev. Energy Environ. 1998. 23: 83-105
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J. D. Mahlman
Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory/ NOAA, Princeton University,
Princeton, New Jersey 08542; e-mail: jm@gfdl.gov
KEY WORDS: mathematical
modeling, greenhouse
warming, public controversy,
infrared trapping, atmospheric
carbon dioxide
The human-caused global warming problem is now the focus of intense
international attention in many sectors of society. As we learn more about
the science of the problem, the sense of controversy about the state of
the science has actually increased, sharply so over the past decade. This
essay highlights the fundamental aspects of the science underlying global
warming. The vital roles of climate models and of climate data in sharpening
scientific understanding are featured. Finally, the roles of controversy
in the science and the sociology of this problem are addressed, and new
insights are offered on the inevitability of future major conflicts and
controversies as society begins to deal with the need to either reduce
the use of fossil fuels considerably or adapt to substantial changes in
Earth's climate.
WHY CLIMATE MODELS ARE IMPERFECT AND WHY THEY ARE CRUCIAL ANYWAY
WHY CLIMATE DATA ARE IMPERFECT AND WHY THEY ARE CRUCIAL ANYWAY
THE KEY ROLE OF "OFFICIAL" ASSESSMENTS
THE EVOLVING REAL GREENHOUSE WARMING CONTROVERSY
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