CFR Presents

Energy, Security, and Climate

CFR experts examine the science and foreign policy surrounding climate change, energy, and nuclear security.

Argument and Authority in the Climate Fight

by Michael Levi Friday, February 3, 2012

I had planned to ignore last week’s awful Wall Street Journal op-ed in which sixteen “concerned scientists”, few of whom do any climate science research, flimsily slammed basic climate science and invented some pretty specious energy economics. But a response from thirty eight climate scientists that the Journal published this week made me think twice. The climate scientists, after making it clear that they speak from relevant authority, rightly slam the “concerned scientists” for using a patina of scientific credibility to substantiate their empty arguments. Then they explain what the vast majority of those who spend their professional lives picking through the data actually believe. Read more »

Oil Market Policy Options in a Confrontation with Iran

by Blake Clayton Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Wall Street has been busy thinking through what might happen to oil prices (and the global economy) if conditions worsen in the Strait of Hormuz. Various scenarios could unfold, from mild to dire. But an equally important question has escaped similar close scrutiny: What options would policymakers in the U.S. and other IEA member countries have to confront a massive disruption to oil supply in the Persian Gulf, and how should they select from among them? Read more »