1. An atheist plays God's advocate

Comment #227392 by aheggie on August 9, 2008 at 7:50 pm

The constant use of "fanatical" is irking me in descriptions of RD's clear reasoning in docos, and lectures etc. There seems to be a desire by some commentators to accept the reality of evolution but only if you can also keep some "God-bothering" mystery there as well. It is typical of the fuzzie thought processes of those unhappy with religious criticism.

2. More reviews of 'The Genius of Charles Darwin'

Comment #225003 by aheggie on August 6, 2008 at 4:35 am

The distressed Telegraph reviewer simply could not bear the incontrovertible fact that the superb story of Darwin's great mind and theories makes a mockery of most sacred religious beliefs. I suspect "Journalist James" is possibly a fierce supporter of NOMA and/or is progressively squirming more than ever in a pew on the Sabbath.

3. 'I despise Islamism': Ian McEwan faces backlash over press interview

Comment #197539 by aheggie on June 22, 2008 at 9:58 am

The very fact that it takes courage to speak out, like McEwan has in defending his colleague, is testimony to the fear factor this intolerant, insecure faith has instilled in society by resorting to threats and violence when challenged.

Sam Harris is right in advocating the need for an avalanche of criticism from a large front of society. Change will not occur by cringeing, silent resentment alone.

4. Astronomers find batch of 'super-Earths'

Comment #194176 by aheggie on June 16, 2008 at 1:50 pm

Given the tantalizing prospect of confirming other "Goldilocks planets", the beginning of life, in whatever soup, has yet to be sorted out despite fascinating experimental attempts.

I am sure many of us keep a keen eye on the excellent Pharyngula website. A simple, but thoughtful approach to a possible replicating process leading to life as we understand it was recently posted on Pharyngula::

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U6QYDdgP9eg

5. 3QD interviews Richard Dawkins

Comment #178822 by aheggie on May 12, 2008 at 5:27 am

Enjoyed the less formal, makeshift interview atmosphere compared to the usual TV studio with the "pseudo-clever" anchorperson. I have occasionally wondered why life may not have had a multifocal origin and was pleased to hear this point raised.

Great news to hear RD is planning an evolutionary evidence book that will hopefully help to neutralize much of the distorted arguments against gaps in the fossil record by creationists.