Climate Change Misinformation And Corporate Interference In the 20th Century to Present
Date
2023-05
Authors
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
Climate change has become a major concern among many Americans who fear
for the well-being of the planet if the issue is not properly addressed. Despite this,
little has been done to limit the carbon emissions that cause climate change, and the
discussion around climate change has become partisan. To understand why this has
occurred, this paper studies the actions of leading multinational carbon emitting
companies Exxon, Shell, Koch Industries, and others from the middle of the 20th
century to the present through the leading climate related research. This study reveals
that these companies have pursued a comprehensive agenda for climate change
misinformation. This campaign began with research of the issue prior to other climate
scientists and awareness of the threat of climate change. Next these companies funded
think tanks, news sources, and politicians to stifle the rising concerns of climate
scientists and confuse the public. This study highlights how the narrative of climate
change misinformation is very malleable and resistant to factual correction. This paper
ends with a discussion of how to address climate change through greater education,
the potential for lawsuits against these companies, and anticipation of future problems
in seeking climate change regulations.