How to Increase Bipartisan Leadership on Climate Change | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Former Congressman Bob Inglis discusses his shift from climate change denial to advocating for a carbon tax, and the importance of bipartisan solutions to address climate change.

Transcript

welcome to voices in leadership live streamed worldwide from the leadership studio at the Harvard th Chan School of Public Health I'm Dean Michelle Williams the goal of voices is to highlight the experiences of leaders confronting major Public Health frontiers and to better understand effective leadership and how it can affect change I hope you fin... Read More

Key Insights

• 💱 Inglis's shift in beliefs demonstrates the impact personal experiences and relationships can have on changing one's perspective on climate change.
• 💍 Overcoming denial and fostering trust is crucial in engaging conservatives in conversations about climate change and finding bipartisan solutions.
• 💟 The growth of the eco-right, which consists of conservatives advocating for climate action, offers hope for bridging partisan divides.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Bob Inglis transition from climate change denial to advocating for a carbon tax?

Inglis's change of heart came after visiting Antarctica and seeing the evidence of climate change, as well as meeting scientist Scott Heron and realizing the importance of conservation in loving God and loving people.

Q: How did Inglis face opposition within his community and did it impact his leadership?

Inglis faced opposition from the Tea Party and was uninvited from their events. The opposition stemmed from a focus on more immediate concerns, like mortgages and finances, as well as a distrust in institutions.

Q: How does Inglis see religion factoring into debates about climate change?

Inglis believes that religion can inform one's reaction to the scientific data on climate change, and it is important to reconcile God's sovereignty with human responsibility to protect the environment.

Q: What is Inglis doing now and what is his message to conservatives?

Inglis is part of a team that aims to persuade conservatives to embrace climate change solutions based on market-based innovations. He stresses the importance of internalizing negative externalities and promoting individual responsibility.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Bob Inglis initially denied climate change but changed his views after interactions with scientists in Antarctica and Australia, as well as encouragement from his children.

• Inglis founded the energy and Enterprise Institute to persuade conservatives to accept climate change and promote market-based solutions like a carbon tax.

• He emphasizes the importance of building trust and engaging in conversations with conservatives to overcome denial and work towards bipartisan solutions.