Climate Change: A Wicked Problem

by Frank Incropera

Under one cover, Frank Incropera provides a comprehensive, objective and critical assessment of all issues germane to the climate change science, technology options, economic ramifications, cultural and behavioural issues, the influence of special interests and public policy, geopolitics, and ethical dimensions. The underlying science is treated in depth, but in an approachable and accessible manner. A strong case is made for the reality of anthropogenic climate change, while confronting the range of issues that remain uncertain and deconstructing opposing views. Incropera assesses the strengths and weaknesses of technology options for mitigating the effects of climate change, analyzes nontechnical factors – economic, cultural and political - and provides an in-depth treatment of ethical implications. This book is intended for those wishing to become fully informed about climate change and is designed to provide the reader with a firm foundation for drawing his or her own conclusions.

378 pages, Paperback

First published October 31, 2015

Reviews

[Tim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book evaluates the scientific, historical, political, ethical, and future implications of global warming. This is a good starting place for those who want a deeper understanding of the topic from a more educational perspective. It goes fairly in depth into the science of the issue, but remains accessible to most people who have a general scientific background. The figures and explanations are good, although a climate science textbook is probably a more exhaustive resource if you want to fully understand every method used by climatologists (such as proxy readings). Given the more academic approach, the book can be a little dry at times, however, I feel like I have a better grasp on what climate science has shown to be fact and what areas are continuing to develop. Further, Incropera explains what makes this topic so controversial in the U.S. - how politics, religion, and ideology have created a community of climate change deniers - and how this necessitates studying and understanding the climate data for yourself. The chapters that cover this topic provide a crucial analysis and history of the struggle of science and fact in a world full of misinformation and confusion. I highly recommend this book if you want a comprehensive understanding of the subject as Incropera covers all the bases.

[Matias Andrade · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nice review of tech and critique. Could use more analysis of complexity and decision making under uncertain conditions to fit the bill. Also, slightly out of date data at this point, particularly with shale and photovoltaics data. Interesting to note storage tech, particularly pressurized gasses

[Kiof]

A comprehensive overview of a complex topic—analyzing scientific, ethical, and political aspects of climate change equally deftly. Not exactly a ‘sexy’ book like others on the topic with a discernible political perspective, but it’s all the better because of it. For those who are interested in substantive analysis, rather than another (pardon the accidental pun) ‘hot take’, look here.