EXAMPLE DIALOGUE

Active Listening

1. I understand that you are not convinced that global warming is a scientifically proven problem and, furthermore, you do not feel it is your problem. Is this correct?
2. I have a different view based on the most recent scientific findings, and the teachings of Jesus and the Old Testament.
3. Are you aware that Christians all across the theological/ideological spectrum-from conservative to progressive-are joining together to fight global warming?
4. Is this a subject you feel comfortable talking about-sharing points of view?

Overwhelming Scientific Agreement

5. I'd like to share the most recent scientific findings about global warming.
6. Are you aware that on February 2, 2007 the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) issued a report concluding that evidence of global warming is unequivocal and that this warming is very likely caused by humans? (Richard A. Kerr, "Scientists Tell Policymakers We're All Warming the World," Science, February 9, 2007, Vol. 315, p. 754, hereafter referred to as "Kerr.")
7. This report was coauthored by 600 of the world's foremost climate scientists from 40 countries. (Ibid.)
8. The report warns that if nothing is done, the problems caused by global warming will get worse. (Ibid.)
9. Are you aware that the Bush administration has accepted the report's findings, but opposes any regulation of greenhouse gas emissions? (Zachary Coile, "Report spurs calls for aggressive action," San Francisco Chronicle, February 3, 2007, p. A6.)
10. Would you agree that the debate on global warming has been for the most part settled among scientists?

Industry Campaign to Deny Global Warming (Optional)

11. In an investigative report, Newsweek reports that industry associations representing petroleum, steel, autos, and utilities have been engaged in a well funded media and lobbying campaign to refute global warming, with misinformation such as: global warming is a hoax; there is too much scientific uncertainty; global warming is a theory not a fact; global warming is caused by the increased temperature of the sun, not humans; global warming is a naturally occurring phenomenon; fixing global warming is too costly; and the consequences of global warming do not imperil the earth. (Sharon Begley, "The Truth About Denial," Newsweek, August 13, 2007, pp. 20-29.)
12. Newsweek also reports that an Exxon Mobil funded think tank offered scientists $10,000 to write articles undercutting the February 2, 2007 UN IPCC report authored by 600 of the world's foremost climatologists. (Ibid., p. 21.)
13. Why would industry groups and companies engage in misinformation to refute 600 of the world's foremost experts on climate change?
14. Do you think this media campaign has influenced how you and others feel about global warming?