Revisiting the most important topic of our time The rapid warming of the Earth's climate has been a concern for decades. Though many of us understand that temperatures will-on average-rise, the science and the resulting social, economic, and political implications of such a change are far-reaching and complex. This new edition has been completely overhauled, synthesizing the latest information into an easy–to–read reference that provides a fair assessment of climate change, its costs, and even its short-term benefits.• Covers the newest science and issues surrounding global warming• Written by a seasoned science/nature journalist