Originally Posted by Joe Durnavich

Risk assessment must take account not only of the consequence, but also of the probability. If the current data suggests that the possibility of a sudden loosening of the western ice sheet is low, then preparing for it or trying to prevent it most likely wouldn't be the best use of our time and resources right now. (Consider the cost of planning for the worst-case scenario every time you crossed the street.)

Global warming presents potential problems on many fronts: sea level, temperature, drought, rain, disease, hunger, etc. There is no realistic way to plan for the worst-case scenario in each case. A more effective approach is to identify the most likely scenarios as best as we can and put ourselves into a position to manage those as cost effectively as possible. That is, find the most bang for the buck.