Post by SnitPost by David BrooksPost by Mike EasterPost by David BrooksWhat do you think about the so-called "Global Warming" phenomenon?
There are a great many factors which influence climate trends. In the
non-millennial variety, we have the story of the Little Ice Age as
recently as the 18th & 19th centuries, but it was just some cooling in
the North Atlantic area and it wasn't really an ice age.
Of the more recent trending, we can observe an increase in atmospheric
CO2 from a small number to a slightly higher number, so that is a very
small increase in one of the atmospheric gases which aid in solar heat
trapping. There are much much larger percentages of other atmospheric
gases which also do that, such as water vapor.
Some would like to 'focus' on the CO2 situation, even tho' it isn't a
great factor, because it is one of the few that human behavior has
influenced due to a combination of the industrial revolution and the
increased production due to carbon fuels.
The result of the discussions have caused a lot of 'trouble' from those
who have agendas and would like to exert more control on human behavior.
This causes them to exaggerate the fears of warming and also to try to
influence the interpretation of the science of climate.
On the other side of the coin is the denying of any climate changes by
those who would choose to counter the effect of those who would foster
the prior agenda. Their interpretation is also not accurate.
The climate is warming some; there is a small increase in the amount of
atmospheric CO2 which comes from a lot of sources which are not all
intentional, such as forest fires.
There are a lot of good reasons why humanity should be trending toward
energy sources which do not add CO2, but that trending should not cause
upheavals in the global powers. The paths for efficient and safe
nuclear energy are complex, the paths for wind and solar power are not
always simple, and the necessity to continue to burn carbon fuels
extends significantly into the future.
Our politics are driven too much by extremists.
You present a balanced view, acknowledging that many factors influence
climate trends, and not all are driven by human activity. You refer to
historical climate variations, like the Little Ice Age, to illustrate
that the Earth's climate has natural fluctuations.
This is stated to push the implied straw man that someone said otherwise. Or
that the climate models do not take this into account.
Post by David BrooksYou downplay the
significance of CO₂ compared to other atmospheric gases like water
vapour, suggesting that the focus on CO₂ may be driven by certain
agendas, particularly those trying to exert control over human behaviour.
Which is unsupported.
Post by David BrooksAt the same time, you criticise both extremes in the climate debate —
those who exaggerate the dangers of global warming and those who
outright deny any climate change. Your position seems to be that while
the climate is warming and there are good reasons to reduce CO₂
emissions, the transition to cleaner energy sources should be gradual
and not cause major political or economic upheavals.
It sounds like you advocate for a pragmatic approach, balancing
environmental concerns with economic and technological realities.
I agree with you! :-)
Some people advocate for human intervention, while others, like me, see
it as part of a larger plan that probably shouldn't be altered by human
actions.
Not sure what you mean by this.
Perhaps you should familiarise yourself with The Great Flood in the Bible?
FYI - ChatGPD says ......
Convincing an atheist about the biblical story of the Great Flood can be
challenging because it often involves differing worldviews—religious
faith versus skepticism rooted in scientific evidence. However, if
you're trying to engage in a meaningful conversation, here are some
approaches that could help bridge the gap:
### 1. **Acknowledge Their Perspective**
Start by recognizing that their skepticism is valid from a scientific or
historical point of view. Acknowledge that many people struggle with
reconciling ancient texts with modern understandings of history,
geology, and biology. This shows respect for their viewpoint and opens
the door for a civil discussion.
**Example:**
*"I understand that stories like the Great Flood can be hard to accept
literally, especially when viewed through a scientific lens. But I think
there’s more to it than just a historical event—it's a story with deeper
meaning."*
### 2. **Focus on the Moral and Symbolic Lessons**
The Flood story is rich with universal themes—judgment, morality,
renewal, and hope. Even atheists can appreciate these values, and they
can be discussed without needing to agree on the literal truth of the event.
**Example:**
*"Whether or not you believe the Flood actually happened, the story
highlights how human choices can lead to destruction and how, even in
the darkest times, there’s hope for renewal. It speaks to something
deeper about our human experience, doesn’t it?"*
### 3. **Explore Historical and Cultural Context**
Mention that the story of the Flood is not unique to the Bible. Many
ancient cultures have flood myths, such as the **Epic of Gilgamesh** in
Mesopotamian literature. This shows that flood narratives were common in
the ancient world, often conveying similar moral or existential concerns.
**Example:**
*"Flood stories are found across various ancient cultures, from
Mesopotamia to India. Maybe these stories aren’t just about a literal
flood but reflect something about how early people viewed the
world—forces of nature and the idea of divine justice."*
### 4. **Discuss the Limits of Science in Explaining Meaning**
You can explore the idea that science, while excellent at explaining the
*how* of natural events, doesn’t always address the *why* behind human
existence and moral questions. Religious stories, including the Flood,
seek to address those deeper questions.
**Example:**
*"Science explains how natural processes work, but it doesn’t always
address why we have a sense of morality or justice. Stories like the
Great Flood don’t just explain events—they try to make sense of why we
care about things like right and wrong, justice and mercy."*
### 5. **Appeal to the Big Picture**
Rather than trying to convince them of the literal truth of the Flood,
invite them to consider what the broader themes of the story say about
humanity's relationship with the divine, morality, and the consequences
of evil. Even if the story isn't taken literally, its message about the
dangers of human wickedness and the hope for redemption can resonate.
**Example:**
*"Even if you don’t believe in the story as a historical event, don’t
you think it reflects something timeless about human nature? When people
forget their moral responsibilities, bad things happen. And the idea
that there’s always a way to start over is pretty powerful."*
### 6. **Share Your Own Faith Journey**
If appropriate, share why you believe in the story—not necessarily as a
scientific fact but as a source of spiritual truth or guidance in your
life. Personal testimonies can be more compelling than logical arguments
when it comes to faith.
**Example:**
*"For me, the story of the Flood isn't just about what happened in the
past—it's a reminder that, no matter how bad things get, there’s always
a chance for a fresh start. That’s something I hold on to in my life."*
### 7. **Engage with Their Questions**
Encourage the atheist to ask questions, and don't be afraid to admit if
you don’t have all the answers. Sometimes, the conversation is more
about mutual exploration than about winning someone over.
**Example:**
*"What part of the story do you find most challenging or hard to
believe? I’d love to hear your thoughts and see if we can explore it
together."*
By focusing on the story’s meaning, moral teachings, and common human
experience, you can create a conversation that respects both your faith
and the atheist’s worldview. The goal may not be to "convert" but to
offer a perspective that opens the door to deeper reflection.
=
However, I'm not going to argue with you. I'm off for a reunion lunch
with other retired RN ATCOs near our NAS at Yeovilton in Somerset!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/RNAS_Yeovilton_(HMS_Heron)
--
Kind regards,
David