It apparently is received wisdom on this forum that global warming isn't really happening, and that it's all some grand conspiracy perpetrated by tens of thousands of researchers world wide. However, it is apparent the Earth is warming (it does so on occasion). The only thing in contention is the cause. The best evidence I've heard to date is that this is cyclical, and simply a natural phenomenon.
Tens of thousands? Climate experts?
Politics are involved when there is focus put on the tiny portion of glaciers which may be melting, and the overwhelming mass of ice worldwide (which is growing) is ignored. The Amen Chorus of researchers then know that the key to research grants is to chant "The sky is falling!!!!".
To anyone will a clear head, Global Warming is one big Kohoutek.
"However, it is APPARENT the Earth is warming"
Apparently, like beauty, global warming is in the eye of the beholder.
I haven't seen any incontrovertible evidence that:
1. Temperatures are rising all over the globe(in fact there have been reports that "global warming" may actually result in a new ice age)
2. That it is caused by man's activities
3. That even if it were real, the net effect would be negative
4. That we could do anything to stop it (Kyoto would reduce the temp by at most half a degree)
5. That we couldn't adapt - humans are not exactly the spotted owl.
6. That it's even remotely close to being the imminent disaster that the hysterical reports make it out to be. It just doesn't keep me up at night!
But I agree with you on one point - if it is happening, I would look for natural causes first. Isn't it interesting how little research is being done (as far as I'm aware) on this possibility. The reason in my view is because it doesn't serve the purpose of the people behind this scam.