What is "Scientific Consensus"? Three Views of the 4th IPCC Report

Session Submission Type: Panel Discussion

Abstract

The Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is a paradigmatic example of the way a "consensus of scientists" can affect public policy. But what is a "consensus of scientists," and how is it constructed? Participants in this panel propose models to account for the legitimate rhetorical force of the Report.

Sub Unit

• Association for Rhetoric of Science and Technology

Chair

• William Keith, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee

Presenters

• William Rehg, St. Louis University

• Jean Goodwin, Iowa State University

• Leah Ceccarelli, University of Washington

Session Organizer

• Jean Goodwin, Iowa State University