Re: The Dead Albatross Sketch

Hi,

As a person I like James - but I do disagree with him.

The scientific argument against the effects of pollution is, I think,
well-founded. But, as an engineer (shut up, Daft Bugger), I know that the
logic that the pollution that has already happened has had no real effect is
flawed. It mat be that there's been no such effect but there's no evidence
of that.

There is, however, plenty of evidence that there *is* such an effect.

I doubt James really has "a selfish lack of concern for the damage to the
planet caused by plastic (and other types of) rubbish" - and I do think his
scepticism is exaggerated. I am also aware that he relishes the idea of
making others think - though it usually comes across differently. Even true
Devil's Advocates often do. But I think he honestly believes that concern
is totally misplaced.

The simple way of stating it is that the Earth is a complex interlocking
system of mechanisms and interfering with just one may have far-reaching
effects.

But it is also important to realise that humanity is part of that system
and, like the rest of the system, it is evolving continuously. The Earth
system is already in a phase unprecedented in the geological record so any
speculation is just that - speculation. Models of how it will react cannot
take into account how humanity will react as it learns more.

Of course this doesn't mean we should just sit back complacently - we
shouldn't. We have as much to lose as we have to win, and idleness never won
a thing - never.

Take care,
Phil.

--
"Singin' In The Rain" again - the magical dancing of O'Connor, Kelly and
Charisse! "Call Me Madam" next.

"Minimise your therbligs until it becomes automatic;
this doubles your effective lifetime -
and thereby gives time to enjoy
butterflies and kittens and rainbows."
.

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