[cogitator]

I don't see a problem. The disturbing nature of the scientific data should be an element in the argument that reducing our dependence on foreign oil is good for national security, the economy, and the environment. That's not a moral crusade.

The problem would be if the disturbing scientific data only results in a moral crusade and doesn't produce political change resulting in better engineering! I'd prefer to keep the moral crusade out of it and just get to the better engineering.

[tpaine]

"-- The trouble with the global warming debate is that it has become a moral crusade when it's really an engineering problem. --"

cogitator wrote:
I am in full agreement.

"-- The scientific data is disturbing and we should use it to force political change --"

Absolutely.
cogitator

Cogi, don't you see a bit of conflict in your two statements above?

Which is it? -- Do you back a 'moral crusade' to 'force political change'?

Or not?

I don't see a problem.

Problem? Me neither. -- I simply asked you an easily answered question.

The disturbing nature of the scientific data should be an element in the argument that reducing our dependence on foreign oil is good for national security, the economy, and the environment. That's not a moral crusade. The problem would be if the disturbing scientific data only results in a moral crusade and doesn't produce political change resulting in better engineering! I'd prefer to keep the moral crusade out of it and just get to the better engineering.

Fine, -- I'll just put you down as a moral crusader unopposed to forcing political changes..

[Old Professer]

Common ground; if there is a problem we need to solve it and if we need an engineering exercise, let's go through the motions anyway as long as we cause no harm.