My discussion with Robin Engelhardt several years ago about cooperation versus confrontation in view of climate change often comes across my mind as of late (“Cooperation, Confrontation,” November 19, 2008). Back then, he leaned toward cooperation, and I leaned toward confrontation. Given his scientific predilections, I miss our discussions, for he has not been to Motovun for years. In fact, he and his Danish friends who together own a house in the hilltown are bent on selling it as soon as possible. At any rate, now I lean toward a dialectical understanding of cooperation and confrontation. That is, climate change will most likely bring cooperation so as to make confrontation more effective. Brigands and bandits cooperate, after all. And so do mafias of all kinds. Corruption and organized crime can take hold of entire governments, as well. Their neighbors are their potential victims. Examples are many, and so-called failed states offer much to ponder about. Returning to Robin, I wonder what he would have to say about this compromise of mine. As well what science can teach us about the dialectics of cooperation and confrontation in view of climate change.