It is impossible to educate people on any subject if they already have their mind made up.
Most people don't use 'common sense' when it comes to what they are sure is the truth even though there is evidence that they could be wrong.
As far as the politicians are concerned, they can't afford to change their minds (out loud) because usually they have put all their eggs in one basket and it would be political suicide to change in mid stream. Plus it would involve less money in their pockets in the case of Global Warming.