Climate scientists who faced ridicule after expressing their fears about the future have stressed that acknowledging their emotions is crucial to their work. They argue that suppressing feelings in pursuit of objectivity diminishes the scientific endeavor and detaches it from societal realities.

In a recent Guardian survey, several researchers revealed their profound anxieties regarding rising temperatures and inadequate global action on climate change. Following their candid participation, some scientists dismissed their concerns, questioning their qualifications and labeling them as alarmist.

However, these researchers maintain that embracing their emotions fuels their commitment to finding effective solutions to the climate crisis. They also highlight that critics often speak from a place of privilege, lacking firsthand experience of climate impacts.

In a commentary published in *Nature Climate Change*, titled “Scientists have emotional responses to climate change too,” the experts aim to foster a dialogue on how climate scientists can more effectively communicate urgency to the public.

Dr. Shobha Maharaj, a co-author from the University of Fiji, emphasized that pretending to be emotionally detached undermines scientific integrity. “Science involves considering all parameters, including emotions. Ignoring them means missing the broader context,” she explained.

Prof. Lisa Schipper from the University of Bonn echoed this, asserting that neutrality in science is a myth. “We need to be mindful of biases while acknowledging they exist,” she stated.

Philosophers of science have long pointed out the impracticality and undesirability of absolute objectivity. Maharaj questioned, “Without acknowledging your emotions, how can you be driven to improve as a scientist? We shouldn’t downplay our emotional responses.”

Schipper added that strong emotions should motivate continued research into the devastating impacts of climate change. “Currently, we can’t afford to be unemotional about our research,” she argued.

Maharaj also highlighted the issue of privilege in climate discussions. As a woman of color from the global south, she noted that she often faces resistance. “The backlash I faced was troubling,” she explained. “They argue that showing our fears could paralyze action, but this stems from a privileged viewpoint, often disconnected from the real consequences of climate change.”

Schipper emphasized that voicing worries serves to combat the normalization of the climate crisis’s impacts, such as heat-related fatalities and increasing homelessness due to flooding. “Our expressions of concern aim to remind everyone that these realities are unacceptable,” she said.

Prof. Gretta Pecl from the University of Tasmania reflected on her emotional journey while studying the Great Barrier Reef over the past three decades. “The distress we experience stems from our love for nature and our desire to alleviate suffering caused by climate change,” she shared.

Together, the authors see their efforts as a means to spark a critical conversation. “Our goal isn’t to incite conflict among scientists but to address the unspoken issues: emotions and privilege,” Maharaj concluded. “We need to unite in understanding, as the public deserves honest insights from us.”