Dave Chase, who once worked for Microsoft, aptly describes the method of Exxon and other global warming deniers as "FUD" — sowing Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt.
During the late 80’s and into 90’s, there was a major shift away
from so-called “host computing” (i.e., mainframes & minicomputers).
That shift nearly killed IBM and did kill a host of other 2nd tier
players. IBM did all it could to sow fear, uncertainty and doubt
with customers to get them to slow down their migration away from
mainframes. This period saw the rise of companies like Sun, Microsoft,
Intel, Oracle and others who took advantage of the shift though it
would have happened much quicker had IBM not been so effective with
FUD. I was at Microsoft at the time and we saw how IBM was very
effective at using FUD with market analysts through the commission of
studies and using their PR machine to highlight problems with the
mainframe alternatives as well as several other tactics…
And America’s leading climatologist (according to ABC News) suggests a counterstrategy. James Hansen writes in his latest email:
One now sees advertisements by EXXON/Mobil, and other giants, to the effect that they have become “green”. And personal statements of CEOs often acknowledge the reality of global warming and its potential importance. Nobody wants to be remembered as a dinosaur, as a crook who stole from future generations. But it turns out that the fraction of their huge resources devoted to becoming an energy company, as opposed to a fossil fuel company, is minuscule. This pretending to acknowledge global warming while continuing business-as-usual serves mainly to cover one’s backside. Such people may feel better, having eased their consciences.
So the task is back to you, young people. Let your parents and grandparents know that you understand posturing. Appealing on a personal level and expecting accoutability can still be effective. Don’t let them off the hook. “Hey, Grandfather, it’s my planet too!”
Kit Stolz 