Assessing the Influence of Educational Interventions on the Climate Change Beliefs of Evangelical College Students

Abstract

Despite an overwhelming scientific consensus, much of the American public remains skeptical of anthropogenic climate change. This disparity seems particularly evident among evangelical Christians, who consistently demonstrate greater skepticism with regards to climate change. Indeed, numerous barriers impede evangelical acceptance of human-caused climate change, including theological conservatism, scientific skepticism, political affiliations, and socio-cultural influences. In order to address this problem climate advocates have attempted to engage the evangelical community through various educational initiatives. However, no previous research has yet provided empirical measurement regarding the efficacy of such programs.

The current research addresses this lack of information by measuring the influence of a climate education lecture at an evangelical Christian college. Using pre- and post-treatment surveys to measure participants’ beliefs in climate change, this study provides quantitative data on the influence of an educational intervention on students’ climate change beliefs. The results demonstrate a significant increase in the pro-climate beliefs of evangelical college students following participation in a climate education lecture. Conversely, the research found no additional influence from education specifically addressing common climate misconceptions, or from the use of a live vs. recorded lecture. Ultimately, this research provides valuable data for those working in climate education among evangelicals, and points to several new opportunities for research in the area of faith-based climate communication.