Max –
The positive correlation between self- reported understanding of global warming and climate change denial among conservative white males is compelling evidence that climate change denial is a form of identity-protective cognition, reflecting a system-justifying tendency.
I think a more correct conclusion would be –
The positive correlation between self- reported understanding of global warming and climate change denial among conservative white males is compelling evidence that climate science fails to present a convincing case for future catrastrophic climate conditions and therefore, for the massive sociological and economic disruption that would result from the presently proposed mitigation policies.