Whether or not the Earth is getting warmer, things are getting hot for George Taylor, the state climatologist in Oregon. He does not believe that human activities are the primary cause of global warming.

"Most of the climate changes we have seen up until now have been a result of natural variations," Taylor asserts.

Democratic Governor Ted Kulongoski wants to do what many progressive, enlightened leaders support doing to a dissenter — shut him up or fire him.

The governor said Taylor’s contradictions interfere with the state’s stated goals to reduce greenhouse gases. Yes, and in a world of progressive enlightenment, there is no room for dissent.

In Delaware, a number of folks are unhappy with David Legates. Like Mr. Taylor, he is the state climatologist and, like his Oregon colleague, he believes human activities are not to blame for global warming. And, as in Oregon, a lot of people want to shut him up too.

Then there is Virginia resident S. Fred Singer, who is the professor emeritus of environmental science at the University of Virginia. With Dennis Avery, Professor Singer has authored a book, "Unstoppable Global Warming – Every 1,500 Years." The Earth is in one of its natural cycles, the two authors say. Since the advent of recorded history, the Earth has experienced both warming and cooling cycles, many of which occurred before the industrial age, they note.

Some pundits claim that to dissent, even in a time of war, is patriotic and courageous. So, isn’t dissenting on a scientific opinion also courageous and patriotic? Shouldn’t the dissenting scientists be listened to and not fired?

Besides, shouldn’t the global warming supporters be a tad humble in their views since the nation is currently experiencing record-breaking freezing temperatures?