This was inspired by a reddit post I saw regarding how to talk to someone who doesn’t “believe” in climate change. I’m not going to put a ton of words here because I’m not trying to talk about the science, but the intermediary parts – how to message it.
Addressing the deep divisions in America requires us to examine the different foundations of our beliefs. Particularly in issues like climate change, these foundational differences can be stark. Many dispute its existence, despite overwhelming evidence from shifting weather patterns and scientific data. So, how do we bridge this gap?
It’s common to encounter arguments from individuals informed by outlets like Fox News, but it’s crucial to engage these perspectives with understanding. When someone expresses disbelief in climate change, a productive approach is to ask specific questions about their doubts. Point to undeniable changes: the melting of polar ice caps, shifts in local grow zones (like Ohio’s change from 5a to 5b), or the alarming ocean temperatures around Florida. These are tangible, observable phenomena.
The goal here is not to win an argument but to establish a common ground: the recognition that climate change is a real, ongoing process. This is a necessary first step in any meaningful discussion about the issue. Of course, some may remain indifferent due to various reasons – be it the perceived enormity of the problem, religious beliefs, or a cost-benefit analysis. But even then, bringing everyone to an acknowledgment of the issue’s existence is progress.
Moving forward, individual responses to climate change can vary greatly. It’s important to move beyond rehearsed talking points and understand the reasons behind someone’s stance. Highlighting the potential consequences is key – like the impact on coastal cities, global weather patterns, the displacement of populations, and long-term sustainability of life on Earth. The focus should be on helping people see climate change as a significant issue that demands action, even if it’s just at the level of supporting national or global initiatives. Acknowledgment and willingness to address it, even in the smallest ways, are steps towards collective action. Remember that not everyone needs to be a climate warrior, and getting individuals to come around with even a neutral or slight positive view of combating climate change will help go a long way with an average person who gets narratives spoon-fed.
