Things like the fact that the planetary temperatures have not risen in almost two decades are virtually unknown among those who think of global warming as a catastrophic problem. It is seldom stated, and nowhere someone of a warmest nature might casually go to read about the issues. How debate can ever be engaged remains a mystery since the exposure to facts such as these, required to temper the debate, never happens.

Which brings me to this today linked at Drudge: Bill Nye demolishes climate deniers: “The single most important thing we can do now is talk about climate change”. I was interested in the article from the headline since if he is to demolish those of a more sceptical nature, he has to actually address the kinds of things they say. Well, once again the article is filled with rhetorical flourish but no facts.

Not knowing who Bill Nye was I assumed that he was some deep intellectual, steeped in climate science. Turns out he is the American version of Tim Flannery.

William Sanford “Bill” Nye (born November 27, 1955), popularly known as Bill Nye the Science Guy, is an American science educator, comedian, television presenter, actor, writer, scientist, and former mechanical engineer, best known as the host of the Disney/PBS children’s science show Bill Nye the Science Guy (1993–1998) and for his many subsequent appearances in popular media as a science educator.

This is how he writes and this is about as informative as the article gets.

On Nov. 10, Bill Nye will release a new book titled “Unstoppable.” As only Bill Nye can, he uses the book to explain the science behind climate change, debunks popular myths, and asks readers to take action in their own lives to create a sustainable future. The book is shot through with optimism, but Nye has no illusions about what lies ahead. The message is simple: Climate change is real; humans are causing it; and we have no choice but to build a better and cleaner world.

With his expertise in mechanical engineering and talking to children, sounds like the ideal person from whom to get the facts.