The Climate Book

Analyze the role of capitalism in climate change. When did capitalism emerge? How does capitalism influence social values and priorities? Are capitalism and sustainability mutually exclusive? Why or why not?

Multiple contributors note that the implications of climate change are uncertain. How does this lack of certainty impact The Climate Book? Does it influence the tone? How does it impact the text’s credibility? How does it affect the book’s persuasiveness?

Describe The Science of Climate Change. What are the main drivers of climate change? Why are life-sustaining cycles, like the carbon and water cycles, important? How are they changing? How would reducing emissions slow climate change?

Examine the theme The Science of Climate Change. Why is understanding the science behind climate change important? How do the authors’ professional backgrounds influence the development of The Science of Climate Change? What literary techniques do the authors use to help relate scientific information?

Analyze the relationship between climate change, colonialism, and Indigenous peoples. How has colonialism contributed to climate change? Why are Indigenous peoples, who make up 5% of the global population, responsible for most environmental protection movements and practices? How can Indigenous voices help humanity in the fight against climate change?

The contributors to the book frequently discuss natural tipping points and thresholds, including the fact that we do not have scientific certainty about them. What is the purpose of discussing these tipping points and thresholds? Do you believe that the uncertainty surrounding them makes climate action more or less likely? Why or why not?

Identify the persuasive techniques used in The Climate Book. Do the authors use pathos, ethos, or logos? How do the literary devices and tones impact the persuasiveness of the text? Who are the authors trying to persuade? What are they trying to persuade their audience to do?

According to the authors, effective climate change mitigation requires a holistic approach. What other social and political issues are connected to climate change? Other than limiting climate change, how else might climate action benefit humanity?