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Climate Change: Public Perception and Discourses
Analysis of varying public perceptions on climate change, influenced by political viewpoints, personal experiences, and diverse discourses.
Dutch
Netherlands
PoliticsClimate ChangeScienceNetherlandsEnergy SecurityPublic OpinionSociety
University Of OsloTyndall Centre For Climate Change ResearchSociaal En Cultureel Planbureau (Scp)IpccUniversity Of Queensland
Karen O'brienRobin LeichenkoMike HulmeYvonne De KluizenaarMatthew Hornsey
- How does political orientation influence public opinion on climate change?
- Public opinion on climate change is highly politicized, with those identifying with right-wing and conservative parties exhibiting less concern than those supporting green parties. This polarization is influenced by worldviews, values, and beliefs.
- What are the different discourses on climate change and how do they differ?
- Different discourses shape people's understanding of climate change. The biophysical discourse views it as an environmental issue solvable through technological innovation, while the critical discourse frames it as a symptom of systemic injustice requiring social and political change.
- What was the personal experience of Professor Karen O'Brien during Hurricane Milton?
- Karen O'Brien, a sociology and human geography professor, experienced Hurricane Milton in Sarasota, Florida, highlighting the emotional impact of such events on individuals and their varying responses.
- How do individual values, beliefs, and worldviews impact perspectives on climate change?
- Individual differences in values, beliefs, and worldviews significantly influence climate change perceptions. Those prioritizing status, wealth, and pleasure tend to be more skeptical, while those valuing egalitarianism and government intervention show greater concern.
- What are the current trends in public opinion on climate change, and what disagreements remain?
- While 95% of West Europeans surveyed believe the climate has changed in the last century, and 65% attribute it to human activity, there's growing disagreement over the urgency and fairness of climate action. This reflects varying perceptions of risk and the importance of climate change relative to other issues.