global warming

Definition

Global warming is the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning, which releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. It is a major issue of concern within political science as it influences public policy, international relations, and political agendas.

Analogy

Imagine Earth wrapped in a blanket; this blanket represents the greenhouse gases. The thicker the blanket (more gases), the warmer Earth gets, just like how you'd feel hotter under a heavy blanket compared to a light one. This process mirrors global warming, where increased greenhouse gases trap more heat, raising Earth’s average temperature.

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