Elite climate catastrophism

Some academics and mainstream outlets systematically overstate high‑probability climate scenarios or misreport datasets in ways that amplify catastrophic framings. This elite‑sourced exaggeration functions differently from denialism but can be equally misleading and has distinct political effects. — If elites exaggerate climate risks while pushing legal or regulatory limits on 'misinformation', they risk delegitimizing policy, deepening polarization, and undermining free‑speech norms.