ABSTRACT
Global climate change may very well be the most important socio-scientific issue the world faces today and in the future. The expected increase in average global temperatures will likely have devastating ecological, economic, health, and socio-cultural impacts that may result in unprecedented social justice and geopolitical consequences. The relationship between nature of science understanding, acceptance of climate change science, and a willingness to take action to mitigate climate change is not straightforward. Many additional factors influence one's acceptance and response to global climate science. These factors include: science content understanding; cultural identity and risk perception; personal beliefs and costs; empathy with those who suffer; media literacy and an understanding of the nature of technology/engineering. Science education efforts directed at informed decision-making regarding climate change must inculcate habits of mind that apply accurate nature of science knowledge to assist in assessing the knowledge claims of experts.
