Psychology of the Climate Crisis

Catalog description

Climate scientists are largely in agreement that humanity faces a serious crisis, yet responses from the population at large and key decision makers have been mixed. How can we explain this disconnect and the diversity of reactions? In this discussion-based seminar we will read papers with a goal of understanding the psychological factors behind this situation. Topics may include: public opinions about climate; how people evaluate expert testimony; factors affecting the information people depend on; how people value future generations in decision making; and, linguistic issues in framing the debate.