Great post, Chris! As I'm sure you are aware, virtually ALL of the scientists who have made public statements against global warming (either its existence or whether it is due primarily to mankind's activities) have at least some connection to the oil industry. The sole exceptions seem to be scientists whose field of expertise is not geology, geophysics, or climatology, or anything else closely related. Kinda like all the "scientists" signing on to "Intelligent Design". Turns out they're mostly engineers - and not such good "scientists," either, since their objection to evolution is most often a misunderstanding of the applicability of the second law of thermodynamics.

I have also read about the controversy surrounding Crichton and the critical reviews of his book. His political views greatly colored his fiction writing, and I was also scandalized to hear the Petroleum Geologists awarded that prize to him. And Imhofe is among those leaders who would like to lead us all back to the dark ages. Like you, though, I've been a little surprised at Gore's somewhat radical views. In particular, his suggestion that global warming could end human life on this planet. I find that pretty difficult to believe.

Again, good post, Chris! Thanks.

Michael Williams
Arroyo Grande, CA USA