Our ‘Shrink’ing Planet

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Fellow True/Slanter Jeff McMahon looks at a new report (PDF) on why it’s impossible to make people (well, Americans) care about climate change, conducted by the American Psychological Association:

Uncertainty – Research has shown that uncertainty over climate change reduces the frequency of “green” behavior.

Mistrust – Evidence shows that most people don’t believe the risk messages of scientists or government officials.

Denial – A substantial minority of people believe climate change is not occurring or that human activity has little or nothing to do with it, according to various polls.

Undervaluing Risks – A study of more than 3,000 people in 18 countries showed that many people believe environmental conditions will worsen in 25 years. While this may be true, this thinking could lead people to believe that changes can be made later.

Lack of Control – People believe their actions would be too small to make a difference and choose to do nothing.

Habit – Ingrained behaviors are extremely resistant to permanent change while others change slowly. Habit is the most important obstacle to pro-environment behavior, according to the report.

A perfect storm.