Have you ever felt it difficult to express your climate anxiety in conversation with older relatives? You are likely not alone, as climate change is a topic rife with high stakes, differing views and strong emotions. Discussions can devolve into arguments, and arguments invite fallacies.

Climate change is making communication harder as temperatures flare tempers and we struggle with the right words to describe our global circumstances. These factors can further help explain why you might find it difficult to discuss the climate crisis with people, particularly older loved ones, who may hold views that differ from your own.

While most people of all ages believe the climate crisis urgently requires action, in the United States, Millennials and Gen Z people are those far more likely to take that action.

In Canada, young people are choosing more walkable neighbourhoods, supporting public transit and donating proportionally more of our incomes to environmental organizations. Still, younger generations are pessimistic about the future, and we largely hold previous generations responsible for our anxiety.

These three scenarios reveal common argumentative fallacies. You may want to be aware of them before your family’s next summer get-together.

No one’s 20s and 30s look the same. You might be saving for a mortgage or just struggling to pay rent. You could be swiping dating apps, or trying to understand childcare. No matter your current challenges, our Quarter Life series has articles to share in the group chat, or just to remind you that you’re not alone.

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