Jessica Byrom's column "An indefinite truth" (SN 3/15), is a spit in the face of scientists across the globe. Her anti-global warming arguments are ignorant, and I would like to try to clear up that garbage.

The earth indeed "oscillates between heating and cooling itself." The real problem, however, is how fast the climate is changing, and the vast majority of scientists agree this acceleration is human-induced (check out the extensive group of studies on the Environment Protection Agency's Web site at www.epa.org). As for the percentage of greenhouse gas she said was caused by humans, the real numbers can be found through the U.S. Department of Energy.

Accusing scientists of lusting after funding and fame is atrocious. The whole point of science is to be objective — to look at how the world works independently of political or monetary bias. And when you look at the objective science on this issue, it's a scary picture. Equally frightening is the number of people who refuse to listen.

Ms. Byrom does have a point. Celebrities and politicians should not act as experts on scientific issues. They should "walk the walk" if they "talk the talk." However, the only way to make any headway on this issue is through education — something Al Gore is accomplishing better than anyone else. People should "think for themselves" and avoid being "spoon-fed" their facts. But do it intelligently — educate yourself, use science as a tool and, for your own sake, don't believe everything you hear on talk shows.

Carolyn Schwedler
fisheries and wildlife senior