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Introduction xx unfortunate thing is that by the time we know which outcome is the true one, it will almost certainly be too late to act. Therefore, the issue leaves policy makers, scientists, and citizens with a profound series of questions. In the face of uncertainty regarding our fore- casts for global warming, how much political will do the American people have to act on the problem? What are the risks to our natural environment if we do nothing or next to nothing? What are the risks to our way of life if we do too much? Climate Change: An Encyclopedia of Science and History aspires to be part of the adaptation process as humans accept the new realities of climate change and the very likely implications of their actions not just as a reason for action but also as a rationale for new patterns of development. Simply put, just as a human with knowledge of how to keep her or his body more fit and healthy strives to change contrary behaviors, we now have more than enough data to demonstrate how we can best keep Earth robust and healthy. This encyclopedia is dedicated to providing ideas and background knowledge to help guide this path forward. Brian C. Black Further Reading “Climate Change and Mitigation.” IPCC, October 27, 2010, http://www .global-greenhouse-warming.com/climate-mitigation-and-adaptation .html. “The Current and Future Consequences of Global Change.” NASA, http:// climate.nasa.gov/effects/. Marsh, G. P. Man and Nature. 1864 reprint, Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1965. Weart, Spencer. “A Personal Note.” The Discovery of Global Warming, Feb- ruary 2011, http://www.aip.org/history/climate/SWnote.htm. Zabarenko, Deborah. “Climate Change Will Boost Number of West’s Wild- fires.” Reuters, June 12, 2012, http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/06/12/ us-climate-wildfires-idUSBRE85B09420120612.