Reference Reviews

Lawrence Looks at Books

Climate Change: In Context, edited by Brenda Wilmoth Lerner & K. Lee Lerner. 2 vols. 1,108p. Farmington Hills, MI: Gale, 2008. 978-1-4144-3614-2; 2007-51762. $245.

Gale’s In Context series examines various fields of science in relation to their impact on daily life, including social, political and legal issues. Topics are presented in a standardized format that defines the parameters of an issue or concept, traces its historical and scientific background, relates its impact in the world today and reviews current responses to the issue. Entries may include definitions of related concepts, substantial guides for further research and selected primary documents. This format serves an introductory encyclopedia well, and this series is aimed at high school and beginning college students.

The focus of this latest contribution to the series is perhaps the most important environmental issue facing our generation. The premise of the editors and the expert contributors is that the debate among reputable scientists has moved well past the point of questioning climate change. Instead the chief questions are how much of the changes are being generated by human activities, and how may we best go about mitigating those changes? From this point of view, the 247 articles explore a wide range of issues, from acid rain, aerosols and automobile emissions to waste disposal, water shortages and wildfires. Natural phenomena like earthquakes, hurricanes, tornados and volcanism also are examined. The debate of global warming is reviewed in entries on skeptics and media influences. Articles on carbon credits, sustainability and wind power present possible solutions. The importance of international agreements and agencies also are discussed, particularly the projects of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change or the IPCC. More than 250 full-color photographs, illustrations, maps and tables support the articles. As additional aids to students, a glossary of scientific terms, a list of abbreviations and a chronology preface each volume, while an excellent general index serves the entire set. Though designed to meet high school curriculum needs, this excellent guide to a vitally important issue will serve school, public and college library audiences.
—John R.M. Lawrence