Hooray, let's save the world!

How politics and the media have their
way with climate research

From Dirk Maxeiner

wjs-Verlag,
Berlin 2007
ISBN 9-783-937989-29-7
230 pages,
19,90 euros

Summary

When nothing less than saving humankind is at stake, time is of the essence and opposition cannot be tolerated. This holds true for the debate on climate change. Certain terms have become taboo, certain truths may not be pronounced, and certain questions may not be asked. The debate has reached a level where journalists and scientists alike are caught in a ‘spiral of silence’. Nobody dares to disagree anymore. Fear can be a good tool for oppression, but it does not give good advice. Dirk Maxeiner would like to reassure his readers and enable them to form an independent view of what is happening in our environment and our society. Which aspects of climate change really can be measured and observed? Is there any new science that justifies the hypothesis that the situation is growing more severe? What can theoretical model estimates predict about the future and how accurate are these models? Who has an interest in invoking a catastrophe? In his book the author follows one principle: a journalist should stay objective and present a balanced view. He comes to science’s defense and describes the striking parallels between climate alarmists and an apocalyptic worldview historically shared by revivalist groups. His book is an exciting and entertaining case study on one of the key issues at the beginning of the 21st century.

Reviews

"Dirk Maxeiner, a professional sceptic and co-author of bestsellers like the ‘Encyclopaedia of Eco-Myths and Misconceptions’ settles the score with climate alarmists in a competent and experienced manner."
Der Spiegel (Buch Spezial)

"I read this book in one sitting. It is the best on this topic."
Jan Veizer, earth scientist, Leibniz Prize winner

"Maxeiner brings up many a painful subject and addresses a broad audience. Science needs controversy."
Deutschlandfunk, Politische Literatur