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The '''controversy over the science of [[global warming]]''' is mainly over the extent of [[human]] contribution to warming, as well as a dispute over predictions of near-future warming and its effect on human beings and the environment.
The '''controversy over the science of [[global warming]]''' is mainly over the extent of [[human]] contribution to warming, as well as a dispute over predictions of near-future warming and its effect on human beings and the environment.
Among registered U.S. voters, opinion is split neatly down the middle, with 75% of Democrats believing that "the science is settled" in favor of Al Gore's view and 73% of Republicans affirming that there is no scientific consensus.
Among registered U.S. voters, opinion is split neatly down the middle, with 75% of Democrats believing that "the science is settled" in favor of Al Gore's view and 73% of Republicans affirming that there is no scientific consensus. Both main party candidates have no doubt that the issue is real and urgent.
In any event, it is important to remember that public opinion does not change the physical reality. Even if 100% of people of both parties believe in anthropogenic climate change, if the reality is that mankind is not responsible, then public opinion to the contrary does not change that fact--and vast amounts of money could be wasted in curbing CO<sub>2</sub> emissions when there is no need. On the other hand, if anthropogenic warming is occurring, then no amount of public denial will cool the climate down again--only positive action will, and curbing CO<sub>2</sub> emissions could save people money (such as with more efficient cars and homes).
In any event, it is important to remember that public opinion does not change the physical reality. Even if 100% of people of both parties believe in anthropogenic climate change, if the reality is that mankind is not responsible, then public opinion to the contrary does not change that fact--and vast amounts of money could be wasted in curbing CO<sub>2</sub> emissions when there is no need. On the other hand, if anthropogenic warming is occurring, then no amount of public denial will cool the climate down again--only positive action will, and curbing CO<sub>2</sub> emissions could save people money (such as with more efficient cars and homes).