ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the role and function of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) as a body which provides expertise. It starts with a discussion of the meaning of expertise and establishes a typology that defines four roles of experts: the scientist, the specialist, the advisor, and the commentator. Previous research has emphasized the roles of scientist and advisor, while other roles have been backgrounded. My argument is that we need to examine the role of commentator more closely as it provides important insights into the role of the IPCC. While the IPCC is constitutionally prevented from providing policy advice, it still has some power to define problems and solutions. It does this through metrics, models, and metaphors, which are condensed into alarming and reassuring narratives. The IPCC employs this repertoire in its public comments. The chapter traces the evolution of the IPCC and its function and discusses its limitations.
