Hmm, there is a third group - self-directed & hyper pessimistic. Perhaps the word realistic would be more appropriate. People trained in the logic of cause and effect.

2 degrees of global temperature rise will have a tremendous impact. I don't believe in miracles and even less in politics, so it will happen. It's time to start to deal with the coming - hyper disruptive reality which will manifest in gradual yet exponential steps.

To use your analogy, yes we can see it coming. Just like back then when quite a few people realised perfectly well that the (WO1) treaty of Versaille would again lead to war. But the majority just wanted to stop thinking and party (aka get on with their normal lives)...Interesting similarity indeed.