COURSE NUMBER: 33780

Modern scientific observation has concluded with near certainty that Earth’s climate is changing primarily due to anthropogenic forcings. According to the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), "It is extremely likely (95% certainty) that human influence has been the dominant cause of the observed warming since the mid-20th century.”

Unfortunately, many lacking an understanding of the fundamentals of climate science are in denial that climate change is even real, or vehemently doubt its consequences. Some even perpetuate unsustainable behaviors that are potentially disastrous to our societal and ecological balance. We are in the midst of a climate crisis. Irreparable (on human timescales) damage to our Earth is occurring now, and will seemingly continue if we, as planetary stewards, do not change our ways.

This course seeks to deconstruct and debunk the arguments of climate denialism as an everyday observer, in hopes of equipping students with the tools and talking points to better communicate – and defend in argument – our current climate crisis in an objective, reasonable, and sound manner. Engagement will focus on scientific articles, statistical models, and direct evidence that back the theory of anthropogenic climate change, as well as potential solutions and precedents for a more sustainable future that could mitigate the risks associated with a rapidly warming Earth.

In this course, students will develop a basic understanding of atmospheric science and results from statistical modeling relevant to climate projections and impacts, as well as the analytical and communication skills necessary to discuss course content with fellow everyday commentators. Lectures will be supplemented by weekly readings and in-class discussion.

Course grades will be determined by attendance, climate change discussion participation, and two small deliverables: 1) An outline for a short final paper about a current argument perpetuated by climate deniers, biases present in the argument, and potential impacts of the argument, and 2) The final paper itself. Both are guided exercises with clear rubrics and resources available from course/departmental staff, and not meant to be hard examinations.

Stop by to learn more about climate change, and what we can do about it together, from the protégé of a UN IPCC scientist and Nobel laureate!

COURSE NUMBER: 33780 First come, first served enrollment. There are ~30 spots in the course, with room for extended waitlisting if we get to that point. Please send me an email (caleblee222@berkeley.edu) if you have trouble adding the class or seeing the bCourses site; This may take a few hours after you finalize enrolling. Students who do not attend the first two lectures (assuming a reasonable excuse is not given) may be dropped to make room for waitlisted students (if applicable).