Predicting Our Climate Future: What We Know, What We Don't Know, And What We Can't Know

This book explores the complexities of climate science and argues for a rethinking of how we approach the study of this important subject. It highlights the need for integration of expertise across diverse disciplines and perspectives and emphasizes the importance of separating robust from questionable knowledge.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Climate change presents us with unique and complex challenges that require us to reevaluate our understanding of science and its methodologies. It is a topic of immense societal importance, yet the science itself is still in its infancy, and history has shown that scientists can make mistakes before they arrive at accurate conclusions. Therefore, it becomes crucial to discern which information is reliable and worthy of trust, while also recognizing the areas that remain open to question.

In his book, Stainforth delves into the core of the climate change problem, exploring the fundamental characteristics that undermine traditional research approaches. He advocates for a rethinking of the study of climate change across various disciplines, including the physical sciences, social sciences, economics, and policy. This necessitates a restructuring of academic research to enable the integration of expertise from diverse perspectives.

An effective global response to climate change relies on our collective agreement on the underlying scientific knowledge. Unfortunately, our universities and research institutions fail to provide the necessary clarity, often mixing robust and questionable information. This lack of distinction undermines the credibility of research conclusions and risks the relevance of scientific findings.

Furthermore, the widespread availability of computer simulations can lead to research becoming divorced from understanding. This disconnect risks undermining the trust placed in scientific research and its potential impact on policy decisions.

In this book, Stainforth takes the reader on a journey through the complexities of mathematics, physics, and philosophical questions related to the origins and robustness of knowledge. He provides insights into the challenges of climate prediction and explores the role of uncertainty in shaping our understanding of the planet's climate. Through his comprehensive analysis, Stainforth aims to empower readers with the tools they need to navigate the complex landscape of climate change and make informed decisions.

Climate change presents us with an opportunity to reimagine our relationship with the natural world and to develop innovative solutions to address the challenges we face. By embracing a multidisciplinary approach and fostering a deeper understanding of the science, we can work towards a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.

Weight: 804g
Dimension: 166 x 243 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198812937