But China isn't doing it, why do I have to do it leadership

One of the main reasons given by opponents of legislation to reduce carbon emissions is that it is economically unfair to America when other developing nations (China, India, Indonesia) are not participating in such legislation as well. Why should America shoulder such an economic burden when other countries are not. I'm hoping someone can explain this reasoning to me.

I'm sure we can all imagine the economic calamities that will be experienced globally if carbon emissions aren't curbed quickly. Even if only a small portion of the catastrophes that scientist predict actually take place the resulting economic and social effects would be incredible.

Without considering America's wealth in comparison to these developing countries, and the fact that if any country in the world can afford a little economic hardship for the sake of humanity, America is that country. Without considering that we, as a country, are by far the leading source of greenhouse gases even more so when considering population percentages. An issue beyond these stands out as more worrisome, a lack of leadership.

What happened to being a global leader? India and China both claim they are unwilling to commit to a reduction in greenhouse gases because it would hurt their economy and because America is not making a similar commitment. I think the fact that other countries are unwilling to commit to this legislation is the precise reason we should. We are America, dammit.

With the current reasoning if other countries are unwilling to stop torturing our soldiers does this mean we should torture there soldiers? Other countries don't have public education, should we eliminate that too? The fact is public education is a burden on the economy but there is value in it. So, why is the value of having a planet that we can survive on transparent to America's leaders?

The U.S. has asserted its moral authority as a reason for invading countries and overthrowing governments but when it comes to global warming where has that moral instinct gone? Since when has economics been a valid excuse for not doing what is right? Would it have been acceptable for the Enron executives to cite their economic well being as a reason for lying, stealing and cheating others?

Imagine if the multiple millions of dollars, time, and effort that goes into one presidential candidates campaign was put towards curbing global warming. Imagine if one Fortune 500 company's CEO put one year of annual salary towards curbing carbon emissions. We are a rich country, a country powered by ideas and innovation. By denying that America can lead by example and enact carbon reducing legislation while maintaining a steady and healthy economy is to deny the greatness that truly is America.