Document Type
Honors Thesis
Publication Date
Spring 5-2010
Abstract
For several decades, global climate change has been an issue addressed in both national and international debates. While much of the rest of the world has adopted a number of treaties aimed at addressing global climate change, the United States has consistently lagged behind its peers. An examination of poll responses, Senate statements, and editorials determined that a number of factors may be causing this effect. Specifically, a disconnect between the public and the scientific community, a political system that has made the question one of elites versus the masses, and a historical tendency for the federal government to prioritize security and economic issues above all others help explain the United States’ policy response.
Recommended Citation
Lyons, James, "An Examination of the Factors Determining American Foreign Policy with Regards to Global Climate Change Treaties" (2010). Honors College. 575.
https://digitalcommons.library.umaine.edu/honors/575