Final answer:
Public opinion on the extinction of the passenger pigeon was less informed by science and more impacted by the observable decline, while current opinions on climate change are more complex, with growing recognition of the issue but continued influence from political and industrial interests.
Step-by-step explanation:
The decline of the passenger pigeon in the 1800s and its eventual extinction due to overhunting and habitat destruction can be seen as an early example of the impacts of human activities on species. Public opinion on this event was likely less informed by scientific consensus and more by the noticeable absence of the bird. Conversely, current day opinion about climate change reflects a more complex interplay of scientific consensus, political beliefs, misinformation, and the visibility of climate impacts.
Although 97% of climate scientists agree on anthropogenic climate change, public opinion has been influenced by organized campaigns casting doubt on this consensus. More recently, there has been an increase in public recognition of climate change as a real and immediate threat, with many citizens supporting clean energy and international collaboration efforts like the Paris Climate Accord. However, vested interests and a reluctance to incur additional costs or sacrifices remain challenges in achieving broad consensus.