Which essentially means the debate, while it may involve science, is not about science per se. In arguing from the specific (empirical science) to the general (natural philosophy), each observer will begin with a set of rules into which the evidence may fit. What a shame we are encouraged and free by the laws of our land to engage any assumption, yet prohibted by cultural zeitgeist from letting divergent viewpoints have a voice in public schools.
Cool, someone said zeitgeist!
Zetigeist. Zeitgeist.
I love that word, and a fine point you have made.