What Exactly Is This Climate Phenomenon?

Are we witnessing a warming trend? A cooling one? Or is the climate remaining relatively stable? Numerous scientists, funded to validate the existence of a problem, seem to be affirming its reality—at least to themselves. However, let’s entertain the notion that they are indeed accurate in asserting that human activity is contributing to climate change. What should our next steps be?

History: A Valuable Teacher

Reflecting on the history of our nation, we often overlook a critical concept: evolution. This is not merely about Darwinian theories on biological changes, but rather the evolution of innovation. America's unique freedoms have fostered some of the most brilliant minds in history—think of Edison, Bell, and the Wright Brothers—who collectively transformed our world, albeit not instantly.

The Journey of Technological Progress

Alexander Graham Bell received a patent for the telephone on February 14, 1876, yet it took a decade before 150,000 Americans owned one. Why the delay? Bell needed time to refine his invention for commercial viability. Similarly, no one rushed to texting the moment the phone gained popularity. Consider the time it took for cell phones to eclipse CB radios, or for CDs to replace eight-track tapes.

Even though jet engine technology was known during World War II, it took decades before jet planes became commonplace. Likewise, computer technology was present in the 1940s, but it took another 40 years for personal computers to permeate everyday life. Horses and automobiles coexisted for half a century. Shooting all the horses would not have accelerated the development of cars.

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Fossil Fuels and the Misguided Approach

Attempting to hasten the transition to alternative energy by demonizing or attempting to eliminate fossil fuels is akin to eliminating horses to promote automobiles. Progress in alternative energies will emerge naturally, similar to advancements in aviation, telecommunications, computing, and entertainment technology. Each innovation requires a suitable timeframe for development and enhancement.

Why didn’t Bell just incorporate microchips when developing his telephone? It would have saved us a century of waiting for mobile texting.

Concluding Thoughts

The debate over the existence of climate change is secondary to the challenge of persuading the global community to adopt lifestyle adjustments. Some changes can be mandated, such as the ban on incandescent light bulbs, while others, like adjusting your thermostat or choosing a hybrid vehicle, remain personal choices.

I recall President Carter urging us to lower our thermostats during the 1970s oil embargo. We complied for about a week before reverting to our old habits. My recommendation? Relax and embrace the fact that fossil fuels will fade away in due time. Until then, appreciate the presence of your "horse."

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