Originally Posted by
wphamilton
This is where you're mistaken - not the statement here which is correct, but the inferences you've drawn from it. Your evaluation of strategies is self-defeating.
One incorrect inference is that since China and India are unwilling to reduce their emissions, an ultimate resolution is impossible and therefore our taking unilateral steps would be pointless, a waste of resources. That's stated as fairly and objectively as possible. This kind of strategy always fails, but on the other hand if you take those steps which you know are necessary, you'll often find that you've gained leverage or capabilities against the previously insurmountable obstacles, capabilities which were unforeseen. If you refrain from measures which are essential to the solution, you will fail. If you take those measures you may succeed. Which is more logical considering the costs of failure?
The point here is that current political intransigence in no way implies that a solution is blocked. I believe that your position arises from a political calculation, not science. I don't even agree with the political calculation; I think that it's more a maneuver for advantage than an ideological refusal.
Yes, my position is a political calculation since this discussion is about politics. Neither of us appear to be arguing whether the science says that if emissions continue to increase the climate will change. Given that it is foolish for us to make changes that cost resources that are being done ONLY to reduce our emissions until some costs have at least a chance to succeed. You seem to be concurring that until China and India agree to change NO reductions have a chance to succeed.
So how is it you disagree with my point that we should only be focusing on changes that serve additional factors like improving our economy or reducing our demand for external energy sources? Things like I've mentioned, fuel efficiency and technologies and infrastructure to deal with the anticipated effects of climate change?
BTW, unless you expect some miracle to occur, there is no foreseable way the climate change effects can be prevented until and unless China and India agree to REDUCE their emissions. That simply is not debatable unless you in fact doubt the scientific consensus on climate (You like that Roody?)