Dr A writes:
I personally believe that this theory that Darwin came up with was something that was encouraged by the adversary [Satan], and it has become what is scientifically politically correct. Amazingly, there are a significant number of scientists who do not believe it but they are afraid to say anything.
It's the last bit that interests me most, that weird meme of a silence which can only mean support. Nixon used it in 1969, trying to silence a national scream against the Vietnam War with silence.
It's like saying, "The absence of strong support is strong evidence of support."
We hear it also from Those Who Doubt Climate Change (in accordance with the new AP style guidelines which eschew "climate change deniers" in the name of balance). In the future, I'll return to saying "deniers" since those who truly doubt have reasons and reason.
So scientists around the world conceal their doubts about evolution for fear of peer and employer vengeance? It's a beautiful thing--almost impossible to disprove without an exhaustive poll, a sort of hermetically sealed argument. Of course, any scientist with good evidence contradicting evolution would achieve historic status.
On the one hand, they're right. Any scientific institution, admin and peers alike, would have qualms about a scientist who spouted such nonsense. On the other hand, there is a boatload of cash and political support waiting for any scientist willing to denounce good science.
But I do understand why he retired from medicine before launching his political career. Hearing your brain surgeon babble nonsense would be off-putting.
His political qualifications? He said it best:
quote:
"I believe it is a very good idea for physicians, scientists, engineers, and others trained to make decisions based on facts and empirical data to get involved in the political arena"
"If you can keep your head while those around you are losing theirs, you can collect a lot of heads."
Homo sum, humani nihil a me alienum puto.
-Terence
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