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THE POLITICIZATION OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND POLARIZATION IN THE AMERICAN PUBLIC'S VIEWS OF GLOBAL WARMING, 2001–2010
Article first published online: 18 APR 2011
DOI: 10.1111/j.1533-8525.2011.01198.x
© 2011 Midwest Sociological Society
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How to Cite
McCright, A. M. and Dunlap, R. E. (2011), THE POLITICIZATION OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND POLARIZATION IN THE AMERICAN PUBLIC'S VIEWS OF GLOBAL WARMING, 2001–2010. The Sociological Quarterly, 52: 155–194. doi: 10.1111/j.1533-8525.2011.01198.x
Publication History
- Issue published online: 18 APR 2011
- Article first published online: 18 APR 2011
- Abstract
- Article
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- Cited By
We examine political polarization over climate change within the American public by analyzing data from 10 nationally representative Gallup Polls between 2001 and 2010. We find that liberals and Democrats are more likely to report beliefs consistent with the scientific consensus and express personal concern about global warming than are conservatives and Republicans. Further, the effects of educational attainment and self-reported understanding on global warming beliefs and concern are positive for liberals and Democrats, but are weaker or negative for conservatives and Republicans. Last, significant ideological and partisan polarization has occurred on the issue of climate change over the past decade.