Ep 21. Climate of Doubt

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing our planet, but despite overwhelming scientific evidence, a significant number of Americans remain skeptical of human-driven climate change. This episode of Frontline, titled "Climate of Doubt," explores the efforts of climate change deniers to sow confusion and doubt in the public's mind, particularly through the use of propaganda and false information.

The episode begins by examining the rise of the Tea Party movement and its connection to the climate change denial movement. Many Tea Party members, as well as conservative politicians and lobbyists, reject the idea of human-driven climate change, often claiming that it is a hoax or a conspiracy advanced by liberals and environmentalists. Frontline interviews key figures in the movement, including Marc Morano, the former Republican staffer who runs the climate skeptic blog Climate Depot, and Senator James Inhofe, who famously called climate change "the greatest hoax ever perpetrated on the American people."

One of the key tactics used by climate deniers is the manipulation of scientific data and research. Climate skeptics often cherry-pick data or use it out of context to support their argument that the Earth is not experiencing a warming trend. They also create their own false research and studies, often sponsored by conservative organizations with ties to the fossil fuel industry. Frontline interviews several scientists who have been targeted by climate change deniers, including Michael Mann, a climate scientist who has been the subject of personal attacks and harassment after publishing research that supports the theory of human-driven climate change.

Another tactic used by climate deniers is the use of propaganda and media manipulation. Conservative media outlets, such as Fox News, have given significant airtime to climate skeptics and have often framed the issue as a political debate rather than a scientific one. Frontline speaks with several journalists who have covered climate change, including Emily Atkin, the founder of the climate newsletter Heated, and Jane Mayer, a staff writer for The New Yorker who has reported extensively on the Koch brothers and their funding of climate denial organizations.

The episode also explores the role of money and politics in the climate change debate. Many of the organizations that promote climate skepticism receive funding from the fossil fuel industry, and many politicians who deny climate change receive campaign donations from oil and gas companies. Frontline interviews several experts on money in politics, including Lawrence Lessig, a professor and political activist who has written extensively on the issue of money in politics and its impact on public policy.

Despite the efforts of climate deniers, the scientific consensus on human-driven climate change remains overwhelming. The vast majority of climate scientists agree that the Earth is warming and that human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, are the primary cause. The episode concludes with a call to action for viewers to engage with the issue of climate change and to advocate for policies that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the planet for future generations.

"Climate of Doubt" is a powerful and informative episode of Frontline that sheds light on the tactics and strategies used by climate change deniers to sow confusion and doubt. Through interviews with scientists, journalists, and political activists, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of the issue of climate change denial and its impact on public policy. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the environment, politics, or science.