It’s unfortunate that so many of the pro-Derbyshire posts here confirm what Berlinski says about scientists and atheism. Particularly the arrogance of atheist science, and the reduction of faith and belief in God to literal readings of Genesis (the comments about IQ, which are simply bigoted, are a good example).
Unlike others who want to say that either Berlinski or Derbyshire (take your pick) is a hack, I think both make good points. I *have* read recent issues of many science magazines, and the opposition to theism isn’t as casual as Derbyshire implies. It is *often* virulent and bigoted. More so among the fellow-travelers than the scientists themselves, of course.
For the record, I am a theist who does not read Genesis literally (like most Christians), and who has no particular problem with Evolution. I think the conflict over these things has more to do with science intruding rudely on theology (Dawkins being a good example) and vice versa with ID. It’s the constant sniping that’s the problem. Dawkins and his ilk only make the debate more difficult (same with ID). Neither side really seems to want to admit their own role in poisoning the debate. It’s all about reducing their opponent to the most ridiculous theory.
There is a wide middle ground here.
