Does the Weather Really Matter?: The Social Implications of Climate Change

Description

What has been the real impact of past weather extremes (e.g. cold winters, droughts, floods, heatwaves and hurricanes) on historic events? - Is the frequency and impact of weather extremes changing? - Can we predict how the climate will behave in the future and what will be the consequences of these changes? - Are greater, less predictable changes just around the corner? Bill Burroughs seeks to answer these questions by providing a balanced and accessible analysis of the current debate on climatic change. Combining a historical perspective, economic and political analysis, together with meteorological and climatological explanations of the impact of extreme weather events on all aspects of society, it provides a basis for interpreting what is known about climatic change and the ability to forecast future changes and their economic and political consequences. The book also includes extensive discussions on El Nino. It will be of interest to all those concerned with the future of human society.

'Sooner or later we have to accept our responsibilities. This book brings out what they are, and helps illuminate the way ahead. In Does The Weather Really Matter? William Burroughs looks at the issues from the field of experience ... Climate in history is a fascinating theme, and here it is well described with new evidence.' Sir Crispin Tickell, The Times Higher Education Supplement '... Burroughs makes a very strong case indeed for taking the weather seriously. A good deal of the work is devoted to a fascinating account of the effect of climate on human history.' William Hartston, The Independent 'Burroughs does an excellent job ... In a balanced and accessible way, Burroughs has expertly combined an historical perspective with political and economic analysis.' Anthony Barricelli, SATYA '... accessible analysis of the current debate on climate change.' Environmental Assessment 'In Does the Weather Really Matter? William Burroughs, a former scientific advisor to the British government, is admirably lucid on how changes in the weather have rocked past civilisations.' New Scientist '... an excellent well balanced overview of the current state of the debate on climate change that covers scientific, social political and economic factors ... In conclusion I would recommend this book as essential reading for anyone with an interest in climate change and its effect on society. The subject matter has clearly been very thoroughly researched and the author's first-hand previous experience in government policy formation has been of considerable benefit when explaining some of the more political implications.' A. J. Waters, Weather '... well written ... the book provides useful information to both specialists and nonspecialists.' Michael H. Glantz, EOS 'While there are many excellent books focusing on their own cluster of key climate change topics, Burrough's work deserves to sit alongside these on the bookshelf of anyone who has a serious interest in the subject. For those whose interest is more casual, this title, with its New Scientist level of writing, provides an excellent grounding as to why meetings of politicians, such as took place at Kyoto, are so important even if our statesmen are taking a while to get their act together.' Jonathan Cowie, Chemistry and Industry