You have my apologies, Fuzz.
I didn't mean to bag anyone. I was afraid there was chance I might be taken that way ... guess that "disclaimer" and all the "nice nice" padding I added wasn't enough, or was misunderstood.
Actually, it (disclaimer) was more of a description of where I'm coming from, rather than something absolving me from any responsibility, esp. since I'm relatively new here. I hope only few others take me that way.
To your point, no, its not all totally realistic and, yes, I do think creating phony alliances to clean-up AI's pollution is silly (I read those comments already and that's partly what I meant when I said you made a good point about the AI).
Also, I didn't realize you didn't know the pollution/global-warming connection. I was starting from assuming you already knew that part. We were starting from different places. My fault. That's ok, though. Our corporations don't see the same connection, either.
And I was speaking strictly from a "why is it in the game in standard mode" perspective, which I thought was part of your question. I also tipped my hat to anyone who customizes. At least I tried to state it that way. Guess it didn't work.
None of my comments were meant to be derogatory towards anyone (though I admit I was having a little fun with your comments). Please re-read it as if I was an old friend and see if you can see what I really meant and where I was really coming from. I hope it sounds different to you that way, from a fellow Civ-er who considers nearly all other Civ-ers as buds in the same frat. But maybe I assume too much comradery here too quickly.
Again, sorry for any offence, Fuzz. No ill will intended. Can I offer you a gift: knowledge, or a unit perhaps?
Happy New Year!
Spiff