[Coral-List] What is the long-term trend for coral reefs?

[Peter Sale]

Hi all,
I watched the discussion generated by Doug Fenner concerning the recent trend in coral cover on reefs globally.  I was struck that nobody questioned the precision of the data being used, but I was not surprised at the diversity of views on what is happening.  As most of you may know, I've been pondering the effectiveness of the messaging around coral reef decline for some time now - its what some retired academics do.  I think there are many reasons why the 'average person in the street' has difficulty forming a clear and accurate view on such topics.  Many different voices with differing perspectives, some deliberate denial of such things as climate change, and a considerable lack of awareness of just how difficult it is to derive an accurate picture of complex issues, such as the decline of coral reefs, using the sources of information we usually turn to.  Not criticizing anyone here; just pointing to some of the issues that cloud our judgements, or allow rational people to come to opposite conclusions, or even let individuals hold contradictory views on related topics simultaneously.  I say a bit more (not a lot) at https://www.petersalebooks.com/?p=3239
Peter Sale
University of Windsor (very emeritus)
sale at uwindsor.ca
www.petersalebooks.com<http://www.petersalebooks.com>