seasons gone by: an examination of perceptions of past weather and views on global warming
DESCRIPTION
In this study we examine the ability of individuals to accurately assess recent weather conditions in relation to historical norms, and validate the veracity of such assessments, with reference to instrumental temperature data. We then examine the relationship between individual assessments of local weather and perceptions of evidence of global warming. We find that subjective perceptions of seasonal temperatures are influenced not only by external climatic conditions but also, and more importantly, by attitudes toward the existence of global warming. The empirical bases of this study draws from surveys conducted in the United States and Canada during the fall of 2014 as part of the National Surveys on Energy and the Environment (NSEE).TRANSCRIPT
CLOSUP Working Paper Series Number 37
June 2015
Seasons Gone By: An Examination of Individual Perceptions of Past Weather and Their Views on
Global Warming
Christopher Borick, Muhlenberg College
Erick Lachapelle, University of Montreal
Barry G. Rabe, University of Michigan
This paper is available online at http://closup.umich.edu
Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the Center for Local, State, and Urban Policy or any sponsoring agency
Center for Local, State, and Urban Policy Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy
University of Michigan
