Opinion: "Is This a Joke?" (Facebook and Climate)

"Facebook’s plan to combat climate misinformation running rampant on its site is here. It is a... “climate science information center” of facts, figures, and news stories about the climate crisis that obscures the systematic changes needed to address climate change while peddling tips that mirror Big Oil talking points. The whole thing is a giant hand-wave to distract us from looking at the real solutions to climate change and the role Facebook is playing in corroding them.

Here is where I would usually say it is good Facebook is doing something about climate change. But the era of corporate malfeasants getting belly rubs is over. What Facebook is doing is akin to the National Rifle Association’s argument that the only way to stop a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun. In this case, Facebook is the arms dealer handing out guns to both sides.

Facebook’s announcement of the information center opens with the line, “climate change is real,” which is usually a precursor to bullshit. Congrats. Welcome to the party that scientists have been having for more than 100 years."

Brian Kahn writes for Earther September 15, 2020.

SEE ALSO:

"Facebook VP Nick Clegg On New Climate Change Information Hub" (NPR)

"Facebook Says It's Cracking Down On Climate Change Misinformation. Scientists Say It's Not Doing Enough." (USA TODAY)

Source: Earther, 09/17/2020