Climatology: statistical study of climate and weather patterns over a long period of time. Paleoclimatology: statistical study of climate and weather patterns over past geologic time.
Mr. Stern, I do not understand why you believe that geology, biology, volcanology and statistics have nothing to do with the science concerning the past and present climate of Earth. Each one of these subjects is completely interconnected with the climate of Earth.
You might as well say that Milutin Milankovitch, whose work is well known in mathematical climate cyclicity and long-term climate change, was also unqualified because he was an astrophysicist.
If you had researched some of these professors’ recent projects, beyond simply their doctorate degree, you may have realized that many of their current or past research has focused on problems influenced by current climate conditions.
Amanda Izatt
Elko, Nev.
Feeds 
Global Warming is like evolution. There is ample evidence for both, but because the details aren't all in place people claim that they are silly and false. I think it's time that more people accepted both as valid claims and worked on finding a solution, especially to the global climate problem. Especially in a cultural environment where we are supposed to accept everything we learn "on faith" not having a perfect understanding.
Medical sciences and climate sciences can be compared. Medical sciences are are all interconnected with the health of the body. However, much in the same way you would listen to a cardiologist regarding treatment of a heart condition over say, a neurologist or endocrinologist, so it is regarding climate science. As I stated, I'm sure these BYU professors are very smart people, but climate science,in general, is not their specialty. They try to marginalize someone ( Dr. Roy Spencer) who is a climate science specialist by touting the "Ph.d." after their names. I'm just concerned that students will not gain a full understanding of opposing arguments, tainted science and the weakness of reliance on models related to climate change. You can get a glimpse of some of the tainted science here... http://blogs.news.com.au/couriermail/andrewbolt/index.php/couriermail/co...
You have a climate in Elko?