J.P.: The thing is, as far as the science is concerned, there really is no debate. Krauthammer is dead right: ID is not a scientific theory, period. It makes no positive assertions that are falsifiable. That is, its falsifiable assertions are entirely negative, variations all on “natural selection doesn’t explain X.” Its positive assertions (an Intelligent Designer did it) are not falsifiable. As far as the metaphysics goes, there’s a lot to mull over, as Krauthammer acknowledges (“Intelligent design may be interesting as theology”). But science isn’t metaphysics, and it’s a mistake to rely on Edward O. Wilson’s theological conclusions. I’ve mentioned here before that lots of scientists are flakey, even nuts, when it comes to serious thinking about religion. It’s no more profitable to ask them about the nature of God then to ask a priest or philosopher to lead a paleontological dig.
And Dave, you’re throwing around terms you don’t seem to understand: “The real kicker here is that Krauthammer doesn’t hold evolution to the same standard as ID. As a scientific theory, evolution should not only be disprovable, but also repeatable, with a more complete fossil record between these jumps in species.”
A scientific theory must be falsifiable. A scientific experiment must be repeatable.
ADVERTISEMENT
SPONSORED LINKS
A man of faith in a godless age is hitting Americans where it hurts.
Mr. and Mrs. American Spectator Reader, let P.J. O’Rourke talk sense to your kids.
In Britain, defending your property can get you life.
The debacle of this president’s administration is both a cause and a symptom of the decline of American values. Unless Congress impeaches him, that decline will go on unchecked. An eminent jurist surveys the damage and assesses the chances for the recovery of our culture.
It won’t take long for conservatives to scratch this presidential wannabe off their 2008 scorecard.
The American Christmas, like the songs that celebrate it, makes room for everybody under the rainbow. Is that why so many people seem to be hostile to it?
Was the President done in by the economy, or by the politics of the economy?