The Global Warming Mass Movement

A mass movement requires a simple doctrine that has general appeal and is easy to understand. In addition, it must promote unity among believers, hatred for a Devil and his henchmen and hope for the future. The doctrine of global warming fits the bill since temperature increases are presumed harmful, caused by the Devil (CO2) and those who lift him into the atmosphere. Belief in the doctrine promotes unity among individuals with diverse interests and hope for a better world if only the Devil can be defeated. The doctrine of global warming appeals to people who hate modern technology, free enterprise and developed countries. The grievances, causes, gestation periods, and times required for a mass movement to capture the hearts and minds of large numbers differ greatly but there are similarities. Social psychologists tell us belief in a Devil is a key element in all mass movements. Ideally, the Devil is an abstraction that is easy to hate – not individuals who may eventually accept the movement. For Communists the Devil is Capitalism and the faceless Bourgeoisie who own the means of production and exploit the working class. For True Believers in the gospel of Global Warming the Devil is Carbon Dioxide and those responsible for it. Those that deny global warming is real or that the effects will be less than catastrophic are the Devil’s henchmen. Coal, oil and natural gas producers are also especially culpable. Consumers of gasoline, comfortable homes and electricity are largely given a pass although they are made to feel guilty. But just turn off your cell phone when not in use and all will be forgiven. The men and women who led the global warming movement were economic and political elites with lifelong commitments to noble causes. Self-made billionaire Maurice Strong who was named Secretary General of the First Earth Summit held in Stockholm in 1972 was a leading figure – a man of words. Astrophysicist and political activist James E. Hansen and Guardian journalist George Monbiot were arch typical fanatics so essential in promoting a mass movement. Swiss Billionaire businessman Stephen Schmidheiny was instrumental in forming the World Business Council for Sustainable Development bringing global warming into the mainstream. Delegates to the United Nations and politicians throughout the world played essential roles. Their role in promoting the mass movement and that of many others are highlighted in this volume.