"what's all the hubbub?"

I have no children and am likely to expire before the effects of global warming have any direct physical effects on me or mine. So I have no personal concern. My concern is how science is ignored by those with axes to grind and the general U.S. public. That global warming is occurring AND that it is primarily caused by man's activities (scientific opinions range from a low of "over half" to "almost completely") has been the scientific consensus now for well over ten years. Some would say 20 years. That it is still controversial in the U.S. is maddening to me.

If Copernicus' heliocentric theory was only just now being introduced to the world, along with all its overwhelming supporting evidence, U.S. conservative and religious leaders and commentators would devote themselves to tearing it to shreds. This would be particularly true if there were any negative economic consequences to the theory. And a huge section of the American public would allow themselves to be led along by the nose by these people. And the media would feel obligated to "present both sides of the issue" equally. Jeez!

Here is an example of what I'm talking about:

"87% of scientists say that humans and other living things have evolved over time and that evolution is the result of natural processes such as natural selection. Just 32% of the public accepts this as true.

And the near consensus among scientists about global warming is not mirrored in the general public. While 84% of scientists say the earth is getting warmer because of human activity such as burning fossil fuels, just 49% of the public agrees."

From a 2009 poll conducted by the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press in collaboration with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the world’s largest general scientific society.

Astounding.

Also, Brian, why do you suggest that, since the Earth has experienced just as large, and even larger, fluctuations in temperature and sea level in the past than is being predicted over the next century (though nowhere near as rapidly), that the current global warming is of trifling importance? The world has a population of nearly 7 billion now, and zero then - with populations and their infrastructure concentrated on the ocean margins. Often within a very few meters of sea level. The human community simply will not be able to adjust itself in terms of location, agriculture, storm damage, fires, species extinction etc. etc. anywhere near rapidly enough to accommodate to these changes. And, over and over again, observations demonstrate that mainstream scientific predictions are turning out to be too conservative. Finally, due to the long lag times between CO2 production(and other factors)and results, the concern is immediate for those either young or concerned with succeeding generations.

Mike W.