ThirstyFish

The Capybara, native to South America, is the largest species of rodent in the world. It is a semi-aquatic animal, traditionally hunted for its meat and fur by the local indigenous population and in some regions, essential to their diet. During the 16th century, Catholic missionaries had difficulty evangelizing the indigenous people as the indigenous people merely added Catholicism to their longstanding traditions. Many native expressions, forms, practices, and items of art were prohibited or destroyed by the missionaries. Other practices were conciliated by the Church; The Capybara was reclassified as a "fish" so that it could be consumed during Lent - problem solved.

Science does not work like that! There may be disagreement or consensus, but, both consensus and disagreement are irrelevant in the light of emerging facts. In science, the authority of an individual or an institution is limited to observed phenomena and on their willingness to submit their work for peer review. A scientists can not simply reclassify a rodent as a fish to settle an argument. In fact, the history of science is a lesson that repeatedly demonstrates the futility of consensus and authority. A young scientist who thinks outside the box can overturn the established scientific consensus with just one discovery. Even the most authoritative scientists can be embarrassed by one single finding. Einstein's General Theory of Relativity (1915) only entered the mainstream of theoretical physics and astrophysics after the findings in the years between 1960 and 1975.

Global Warming is a scientific fact and there is mounting evidence that "human activity such as deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels" is responsible. Yet, instead of scientific literature, if you listen to politicians and popular media, you would think that the debate was far from being settled. In fact, those who argue the science of Climate Change in the popular arena are often scolded. Certain corporate interests, through their politician and media servants, have unleashed their propaganda machine in an attempt to preempt our right to protect the earth and our right to grow old safely. Even the Catholic Church is on the right side of the argument. Global Warming threatens our existence and that of many other species. Species need each other, and only a few of us understand how fragile we are. Omnicide might just well be around the corner.

More Occupy photos.

Song of the Day: Eve of Destruction - Barry McGuire (1965)