There are lots of optimizations, I agree, but we know the mechanisms work because of all the natural experiments (volcanos). We definitely need the research—but no one thinks we don’t do this research because it is too expensive. It’s a third rail—and major litmus test. But it is a bit like the greens being antinuclear. If you really want to preserve biodiversity and prevent massive climate shifts, why make your mechanism of action human morality?

“If we can merely engineer our way out of global warming, then humans won’t get what’s surely due.” Something like that, if you know what I mean.