There is at least a 90% chance that more than half of the increase in global temperature since 1950 is due to human activity. [Literal translation.]

—Climate Change 2007: U.N. Synthesis Report, IPCC

A myth has confounded the understanding of climate science. While its source has been discovered, its power remains. The myth claims that climate science is still too uncertain to serve as a guide to policy. In part, as a counter to this myth, some supporters of climate policy exaggerate both the certainty and conclusions of climate science. This adds to the confusion and, if anything, reduces the credibility of the climate science it seeks to support.

In November 2000, officials began the permanent evacuation of more than 40,000 people from their traditional home. …. The islands are just 12 feet above sea level, and water levels are rising at 11.8 inches per year. —Ross Gelbspan, Boiling Point, 2004

This particular legend, still circulating after seven years, makes it seem that climate science has pointed the finger of global warming at a dramatic human catastrophe. But, as explained below, the report is simply wrong. ...