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    On the Importance of Strengthening Moderate Beliefs in Climate Science to Foster Support for Immediate Action

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    KrauseR_Sustainability_5(12)5153.pdf (768.5Kb)
    Issue Date
    2013-12-03
    Author
    Wendling, Zachary A.
    Attari, Shahzeen Z.
    Carley, Sanya R.
    Krause, Rachel M.
    Warren, David C.
    Rupp, John A.
    Graham, John D.
    Publisher
    MDPI
    Type
    Article
    Article Version
    Scholarly/refereed, publisher version
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    Abstract
    Whereas many studies focus on climate skeptics to explain the lack of support for immediate action on climate change, this research examines the effect of moderate believers in climate science. Using data from a representative survey of 832 Indiana residents, we find that agreement with basic scientific conclusions about climate change is the strongest predictor of support for immediate action, and the strength of that agreement is an important characteristic of this association. Responses indicate widespread acceptance of climate change, moderate levels of risk perception, and limited support for immediate action. Half of the respondents (50%) preferred “more research” over “immediate action” (38%) and “no action” (12%) as a response to climate change. The probability of preferring immediate action is close to zero for those who strongly or somewhat disbelieve in climate change, but as belief in climate change grows from moderate to strong, the probability of preferring immediate action increases substantially; the strongest believers have a predicted probability of preferring immediate action of 71%. These findings suggest that, instead of simply engaging skeptics, increasing public support for immediate action might entail motivating those with moderate beliefs in climate change to hold their views with greater conviction.
    Description
    This is the publisher's version, also available electronically from "http://www.mdpi.com".
    URI
    http://hdl.handle.net/1808/17335
    DOI
    https://doi.org/10.3390/su5125153
    ISSN
    2071-1050
    Collections
    • Public Affairs and Administration Scholarly Works [60]
    Citation
    Wendling, Z.A., Attari, S.Z., Carley, S.R., Krause, R.M., Warren, D.C., Rupp, J.A. & Graham, J.D. On the Importance of Strengthening Moderate Beliefs in Climate Science to Foster Support for Immediate Action. Sustainability 2013, 5, 5153-5170. http://www.dx.doi.org/10.3390/su5125153

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    KU Libraries
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    785-864-8983

    KU Libraries
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    Lawrence, KS 66045
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    Contact KU ScholarWorks
    785-864-8983
    KU Libraries
    1425 Jayhawk Blvd
    Lawrence, KS 66045
    785-864-8983

    KU Libraries
    1425 Jayhawk Blvd
    Lawrence, KS 66045
    Image Credits
     

     

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