Snarling Cyclones; Goofy Journalism

Tags: Richard Littlemore, Suemedha Sood, Washington Independent

The Washington Indpendent reports that a new study suggests climate change may generate fewer, but wetter and more devastating hurricanes. The Independent also notes that this contradicts earlier studies suggesting that global warming may generate more hurricanes that would, again, be wetter and more intense.

The author, Suemedha Sood, then arrives at this stunning conclusion:

"The takeaway point is that we shouldn't be so quick to point fingers at global warming. The science isn't [all] in yet."

Read more: Snarling Cyclones; Goofy Journalism

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About the climate cover-up

Democracy is utterly dependent upon an electorate that is accurately informed. In promoting climate change denial (and often denying their responsibility for doing so) industry has done more than endanger the environment. It has undermined democracy.

There is a vast difference between putting forth a point of view, honestly held, and intentionally sowing the seeds of confusion. Free speech does not include the right to deceive. Deception is not a point of view. And the right to disagree does not include a right to intentionally subvert the public awareness.

Although all public relations professionals are bound by a duty to not knowingly mislead the public, some have executed comprehensive campaigns of misinformation on behalf of industry clients on issues ranging from tobacco and asbestos to seat belts.

Lately, these fringe players have turned their efforts to creating confusion about climate change. This PR campaign could not be accomplished without the compliance of media as well as the assent and participation of leaders in government and business.