When considering the issue of global warming, Americans are in denial. Although there are new, alarming studies released nearly every week about rising temperatures, disrupted animal behaviors or possible coastline loss, they receive little attention or are ignored. While there is not a single, concrete reason for this attitude, there are several issues that make global warming murky territory in the public conscience.

Political Concerns Taking Precedence

After our grandparents survived a world war, our uncles served in Vietnam and our cousins and siblings have been fighting in the Middle East for the past 10 years, the prospect of it being a few degrees hotter next year pales by comparison. Many of those who grew up during the Cold War are sometimes more attuned to the threat of other humans than an ecological crisis.

Financial Panic is Distracting

The American economy has been in a slump for several years. Whether it’s called a recession, a down-turn or a depression, the fact remains that many Americans are facing record job losses, rising prices and fears about financial security. Compared to being homeless or standing in line at a food bank, worrying about global warming falls farther down the priority list.

Feelings of Helplessness

The Americans who are aware of global warming have no idea what to do about it. While some argue that recycling is good, others argue that the extra pick-ups and trucks create more greenhouse gas than they save. Everyone is encouraged to drive less, but many households are already scrimping to afford fuel that is flirting constantly with a four-dollar-a-gallon price tag. Feeling helpless leads to inaction.

Americans are in denial about global warming due to many factors, including financial concerns and fears about continued military disputes. Our feelings of helplessness also stop many from taking action.