Discussion – Natural Science
Minimum of 2 paragraphs, work cited must be in APA format
Discussion:
A hot-button issue around the world is climate change. Although most scientists agree that climate change exists and are the result of human activity, debates about this issue remain heated and polarized. In the arenas of politics, media, and public opinion, it seems that the “sides” of the issue are based more on contrasting belief systems and assumptions than on scientific evidence. Before participating in this discussion, make sure you read the module resources. You should include examples and other supporting evidence from the module resources in your posts.
Discussing challenges that face our world often means investigating opinions and ideas different from your own. Remember to remain thoughtful and respectful towards your peers and instructor in your discussion post and replies.
Create one initial post and follow up with at least two response posts.
For your initial post, address the following:
- How might the way climate change is discussed in the media and by politicians influence climate change research and funding for that research?
- How can bias, beliefs, assumptions, and values influence what we know and how we approach contemporary global issues related to the natural sciences?
Answer:
The way that climate change is discussed in the media and by politicians can greatly influence the perception and understanding of the issue, and ultimately impact research and funding for it. The media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and can often sensationalize or downplay certain aspects of the issue, depending on the political agenda or personal beliefs of the individuals involved. This can lead to a distorted representation of the issue and undermine the validity of scientific evidence. Similarly, politicians may use climate change as a tool for political gain, either by emphasizing its importance or denying its existence, which can also have a significant impact on research funding.
The influence of bias, beliefs, assumptions, and values can greatly impact our understanding of global issues related to the natural sciences, including climate change. Our individual experiences, upbringing, and cultural background can shape our perspectives and biases, causing us to approach these issues from a limited viewpoint. This can lead to a lack of consideration for alternative perspectives and limit our ability to fully understand the complexity of the issue. Additionally, certain beliefs and values, such as religious convictions or political affiliations, may play a role in shaping our opinions, which can further impact our understanding of the issue. It is essential to recognize and address these biases in order to approach contemporary global issues in a fair and impartial manner.
