Climate Change Is Complex. We’ve Got Answers to Your Questions, NY Times, September, 2017
Optimism Faces Grave Realities at Climate Talks, NY Times, November, 2014
“Recent reports show that there may be no way to prevent the planet’s temperature from rising, given the current level of greenhouse gases already in the atmosphere and the projected rate of emissions expected to continue before any new deal is carried out … While a breach of the 3.6 degree threshold appears inevitable, scientists say that United Nations negotiators should not give up on their efforts to cut emissions. At stake now, they say, is the difference between a newly unpleasant world and an uninhabitable one.”
The Next Decade Will Decide What the World Looks Like for Thousands of Decades to Come, Bill McKibben, Huffington Post: “The next 10 years will be decisive when it comes to the planet’s future — what we do (or don’t) will play out over geologic time.”
Pay close attention to the 24 scientific realities shared in this video. Make notes of 2-3 there were new to you or seemed especially important.
Do you agree that climate change is the “greatest issue” facing our species?
The video asks if “facts are enough” for people to believe climate change is real. Do you think facts are enough to convince the public that climate change is real?
How might artists and designers offer “the facts” differently than scientists? How might this change how people experience “the facts” of climate change?
(Optional) Research an artist or designer who communicates the facts of climate change in a compelling way.
In this video, what does the acronym PAIN stand for?
What is the “optimism bias”?
In this video, what are some of the psychological reasons shared that stop people from taking action? Can you relate to any of these reasons or have you had similar experiences?
Do you think psychology is something artists/designers should consider when making work related to climate change? If so, how might artists/designers assist publics in understanding and adapting to climate change?
The video asks, what are you worried or unsure about (in relation to climate change)? What are you hopeful about?
