but here, the issue of global warming is split down party lines. I find this the most amazing thing of all because there is not the slimmest, faintest reason why a physical characteristic and whether or not it exists, and if so what might be causing it should be in any way related to politics or a political party. ?? Really, this is truly incredible, at least to me.
There is a full spectrum from those who don't think the climate is changing at all to those who think the world is ending in 5 years. From those who believe man has nothing to do with it to those who think man is 100% responsible. And everything in between. Personally, I believe that the climate is changing and also believe that man has contributed to the matter. How much of a problem the climate change is or is not and how much man has contributed to it is a good debate, one that has been at matter for quite a while now; and it is certain to continue. As a scientist at heart, I welcome and enjoy sensible, non-emotional, fact-based discussion and debate. That is how we learn and grow.
But what makes it so political is what to DO about it. That is where it potentially starts getting scary. One extreme would like the government to ban everything it thinks might be "bad", ruin the economy, lower standards of living, and block any talk to the contrary. The other extreme would like to do nothing at all, or even expand doing activity supposedly causes the issues, while defunding any study of the issues.
Personally, I believe the mostly "natural" progress of technology improvement, combined with the economics of scarcity will take care of the majority of the problem. Plus, reducing & changing the supposed main contributors of warming- energy use, method, and production, have other known good aspects that make them attractive, regardless of where one falls on the spectrum (reduction of pollution, comfort, reliability, energy independence, reduction of nation conflict, better power distribution options, more comfort, etc). Markets and consumers have, will, and will likely continue to respond in ways mostly positive to the situation. I am always encouraged by trying to see win-win situations.
So, where is the electric Concours with 0-60 in 2sec, 300 mile range, 10 minute recharge, and $15K price tag? I want it now