Mikhil Jaisinghani: After reading your article "The
Truth About Global Warming". I’m no less concerned about the earth’s
environmental condition. You say "Scientists are still differing with huge gaps
in their knowledge." But Lindzen, the writer of the article, is no closer to the
truth simply because he can criticize. Global warming may be far from
understood, but let us act to prevent it anyway, just in case the effects are
real. John Leaver: It’s shameful that you present
Lindzen’s views on climate change as "The Truth About Global Warming." It seems
that your magazine is keeping an open mind, even though you admit that most
climate scientists disagree with Lindzen’s opinions. You characterize the view
that waste gases should be cut as "very European." I take it that it is very
American to pursue a policy of unlimited energy consumption without considering
what most scientists and other countries think. Thomas
Hervouet: How can we believe a man who holds that there is
only a very weak link between lung cancer and cigarette smoking Lindzen’s
position is unacceptable because it shows his lack of knowledge about cancer. I
believe that French President Jacques Chirac is more informed on global
warming--which no serious scientist denies--than President Bush, whose interests
depend on the oil industry. Hans-Joachim Hell: What
Lindzen says makes sense to me. For years I’ve read articles on negative
climatic change and greenhouse effect. The only agreement seems to be "We agree
that we disagree." Considering the recent chilly summers in Germany, I’ve no
idea where the "warming" can be found. In past decades, summers were hot, almost
unbearable. Now, in the midst of summer, we turn the heaters on and wear warm
clothes. Derek Kickinson: The U.S. government should
act for the American people by signing the Kyoto Protocol, instead of acting for
Big Oil in America. Even if scientists cannot agree on the numbers, global
warming is taking place, and this is not beneficial for the planet. The
anti-Kyoto position of the U. S. government is a short-term political move, but
the long-term losers will be the American people and the
environment. Now match the name of each people (61 to 65) to
the appropriate statement. Note: there are two extra
statements. Statements [A] Lindzen seems unqualified to speak
of the effects of global warming on health. [B] America will pay a price for
its shortsightedness some day. [C] Though opinions on global warming vary, we
have to do something about it. [D] Lindzen really has a point to make on
global warming. [E] You really have an open mind to present Lindzen’s
position on global warming. [F] It’s good that Lindzen’s article helps
further the discussion on global warming. [G] America’s attitude toward waste
gas control is to be blamed rather than Europe’s. Thomas Hervouet