re: A comic related to global warming. Are we doomed?

So...you're going to refute the science then use that same science, showing a longer period, as supporting evidence in your argument? Haha.

After looking at the timeline I have 2 questions:


1. How do scientists know the temperature from 1,000's of years ago

2. What do you think caused the quick upturn in inventions? Meaning, it took 1000's of years to develop writing, paper, language, etc. but within the last 100 years (very short time when considering the entire timeline) we have went from inventing the engine to Internet to crazy sophisticated technology.

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So...you're going to refute the science then use that same science, showing a longer period, as supporting evidence in your argument? Haha.

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Actually I was arguing that it isn't as settled as many would portray; that there are a lot more areas to this field that need to be studied before dramatic definitive statements can be made.

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use that same science, showing a longer period,

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The longer periods aren't derived from ice core samples - which can only go back as far as the formation of the ice. To go back further in time, like the examples I provided, requires the analysis of the fossil record (particularly fauna and insect fossils) and the chemical composition of sedimentary and volcanic rocks. So, no, I was not using the "same science" to argue my point.

All of this is to say that there are many facets to this very complex issue. Hell, we still haven't figured out why bicycles stay up or how to cure the common cold, but to listen to the Obama administration (or Al Gore) they've got the climate so completely figured out that to even question their "science" is caveman level ignorance.

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I didn't laugh once

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The part about dogs was funny.

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Wooly Rhino goes extinct

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Once I learned that there were wooly rhinos I wasn't able to read any further since my mind was blown.

I hate summer too

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Can you elaborate on flora and fauna helping us determine temp?

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The most experience I have (which is admittedly limited) is with the analysis of fern fossils. However, there are a number of plants that are studied. The Climate Leaf Analysis Multivariate Program, CLAMP, has some interesting information about this process. "CLAMP is a method of obtaining ancient climate information from the architecture (physiognomy) of fossil leaves of woody dicot flowering plants."

And there's always the study of tree rings. It is my understanding that is only useful to about a thousand years BP; however, the study of fossilized trees is somewhat helpful. It isn't specifically the rings, but the trees larger reaction to the climate - overall forest growth, health, and locations, the compositions of forest, and their reactions to outside sources like fungi, insects, and geologic activity.

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what plants and what animals.

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Paleoclimatology doesn't/can't focus on certain plants and animals to form a total climate history. They have to use different markers for different periods of the earth's history. Plankton and corals are used when the ocean is studied.

The size and proliferation of ancients animals can also point to the temperature of the time. Warm and cold blooded animals are restricted by certain environmental factors (including climate). Insects, because of their lack of lungs and use of tracheae, are particularly responsive to the atmosphere.

Also, you have to look towards the physical effects of historic climate change. Ancient ice growth can carve out portions of the earth's surface. Sea level rise/fall can promote or inhibit the growth of animals or plants. The climate can affect the earth's ability to respond to volcanic activity. The chemical signatures of rocks formed or transformed can change due to the climate of the time.

It is all about looking at the big picture.

SlapahoeTribe,

You seem interested in this and willing to learn more.


I can help you trimming up some of what you said.


Let me know if that's something you'd be interested to read and I'll put the time into a good response to your post.

Question: climate
Answer: the sun

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Do they account for the fact that we have a shite-ton more places that we are taking our readings from? And for the first time we have the ability to consistently record temperatures from highly isolated "hot" locations like the middle of deserts?

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Thank you sir, these are actually two from my undisciplined scientific mind I have wondered. Actually tried to find info, but at best just general conclusions they have from models...best I recall.