Joking aside here is what I think is worth considering. But I'll lead in with an old joke.
An Electrical engineer, chemist, mechanical engineer and a Microsoft Programmer were traveling together when their car stalled.
The EE was certain it was a problem with the distributor, The chemist was certain that the problem was due to bad gas, the mechanical engineer said it must be a problem with the timing chain. The microsoft engineer said why don't we all just open the door and get out then get back in and see if it starts.
There is a danger of having to narrow a scope. In reality it was an EMF disturbance created by a government jet flying overhead ; )
I think this is worthwhile to know there are a number of the resources here with slightly different perspectives and basis for concern.
The hook. Generally played down though. News for the masses.
http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2...mar_arctic.htm
"If the Great Conveyor Belt suddenly stops, the cause might not matter. Europeans will have other things on their minds--like how to grow crops in snow. Now is the time to find out, while it's merely a chilling possibility."
Oceanic Climate Change Institute
http://www.whoi.edu/institutes/occi/...?o=read&id=501
Selected topics
Ice and the atlantic and greater oceanic conveyer.
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Common misperceptions about abrupt climate change
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Separating fact from fiction
The day after tommorow
http://www.whoi.edu/institutes/occi/...cle.do?id=9948
Abrupt Climate Change: Should We Be Worried?
Are we ignoring the oceans' role in climate change?
http://www.whoi.edu/institutes/occi/...cle.do?id=9986
An Ocean Warmer Than a Hot Tub
http://www.whoi.edu/institutes/occi/...le.do?id=10366