AP Stylebook makes change from climate change ‘skeptics’ to ‘doubters’

Through a simple change in its guide, AP entered into the climate change debate—essentially saying there is no debate to be had.

First, it made the phrases “climate change” and “global warming” interchangeable:

New entry: global warming can be used interchangeably with climate change. Climate change is more accurate scientifically. #aces2015

— AP Stylebook (@APStylebook) March 27, 2015

The nonprofit also changed how it refers to those who think that global warming is not manmade, or doesn’t exist.

Reporters are urged to no longer use the terms “skeptics” or “deniers.” The AP’s current guidance is to use “climate change doubters or those who reject mainstream climate science”:

AP Style tip: For those who don’t accept climate science or dispute world is warming from man-made forces, use climate change doubters.