Science Comprehension vs. Cultural Cognition as Predictors of Climate Change Risk Perception

This study identified factors that affect climate change risk perception in a
community college class. The purpose of this research was to determine if students were
more influenced by cultural cognition (political affiliation) or science comprehension.
Students in an undergraduate level environmental science and biology class were
evaluated, using an online survey, for science comprehension level, political affiliation
and risk perception at the beginning and end of each course. Data were analyzed to
determine improved scientific literacy and any variation in risk perception. The research
found that science comprehension did not contribute significantly to increased risk
perception and that political affiliation or political views had a more significant effect on
risk perception.