Answers in Genesis

[Skwim]

I wonder how much NCSE pays Eugenie Scott? Skwim, will you work your magic?

Eugenie Scott NCSA compensation, $77,000.

Source: Pharyngula June 11, 2010

 

[The_Evelyonian]

... but without it, how will I ever land that position teaching local schoolkids about the evils of evolution and atheism?

I mean, the kids NEED me. They DESERVE to have me. I would be doing God's work.

Without me in the driver's seat, some of these kids could be misled into thinking that their mind is capable of learning things outside of the Bible.

Perish the thought ...

Well, have you considered one of the numerous other Christian degree mills? There's always Patriot Bible University (God's Favorite University). That's where I got my Doctorate in Atheist Studies.

And you're right. We mustn't allow the young ones to start thinking for themselves. That's exactly what Satan wants. :yes:

 

[Autodidact]

Eugenie Scott NCSA compensation, $77,000.

Source: Pharyngula June 11, 2010

Oh, that's good. I am so going to work this into a discussion right here at RF at my earliest opportunity. Consider yourself double-fruballed. Hope you stick around.

 

[RedOne77]

It may not be a salvation issue for them, but it is the road to perdition for their religion. If Christianity depends on denying science, then Christianity is doomed. Fortunately the YECs are wrong, it doesn't. I guess the non-ridiculous Christians figure they're not concerned so much about Christianity as an institution (other than the Catholic Church) as they are about themselves. They've worked it out to their own satisfaction, so they don't care what the YECs are doing.

I don't think it is quite that simple. For the standard YEC it is a very personal thing, you are not just arguing science with them, you are arguing against their entire world view in which they take very seriously and aptly apply it to their lives. IOW, attack a literal Genesis and many perceive it as an attack on their most cherished belief.

In order for the Christian community to address the issue it needs, IMHO, a very personal touch. This requires other Christians to approach this very cautiously, and it will take the effort of both the scientifically literate and the Clergy within the Church.

It is very hard, for me anyway, to tell a fellow Christian (in person) that Adam never existed, God didn't create the world in 6 days and so on. Often it is more trouble than I feel it is worth. The conversation can get very heated, usually they don't even consider the possibility that they are wrong and several resort to the no true Scotsman fallacy.

 

[Autodidact]

Yes, RedOne, I agree, you've touched on some of the problems with arguing this subject. Often the best I can hope for is at least an admission that they are setting themselves against science, and even that takes 20 or 30 pages.

When it starts to look as if you're making progress, they flee, for good reason. They believe their eternal salvation depends on not being swayed. If they feel themselves wavering, that's Satan tempting them, so they'd best flee.

So basically it's a no win. If they manage not to be convinced, the call that victory. If they feel themselves being convinced, they flee.

btw, if you want to make them flee, the magic spray is evidence. That will usually do it.