However, when one measures temperature trends as a function of latitude, the predicted increases at latitudes above +/- 45 degrees are clearly seen. For reference, one can consult a document prepared by NOAA located on the WWW (see http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/gblwrmupd/global.html). This latitude data caused a Sept. 1995 National Academy of Science Panel to conclude, that the signature of global warming was now seen in the noise of the global temperature data.
Furthermore, global warming is a far more complex issue than simple temperature increases. The excess deposition of Carbon Dioxide (from fossil fuel combustion) and Methane (from population growth) increases the ability for the atmosphere and the oceans to retain heat and this drives climatic change. Manifestations include increased hurricane strength and seasonal disruptions of normal jet stream patterns (e.g. the unprecedented Upper Midwest floods of 1993). Increased warming at high latitudes exacerbates ice cap melting, releasing frozen methane thus amplifying the problem. The system remains too complex for climate models to unambiguously predict our future; specifically the role of likely increased cloudiness is not clear.
What is clear however is that the earth is a complex global system and human activities are altering equilibrium cycles at an alarming rate. Excess Greenhouse gas emissions are perturbing a very complex system; the interaction between our atmosphere and the ocean. The system itself is so large that it may take decades or even centuries to respond to our activities. Short term responses of the system such as strong El Nino's, violent hurricanes, and ruined economies make newspaper headlines. Behind the headlines, however, lies our collective belief that if our actions today don't kill our neighbors tomorrow, then they remain justified.