(Patrick Henry): Searching for the findings of modern science in ancient scripture involves the same technique that the Nostradamus buffs employ. When something happens (which they somehow failed to predict) they start flipping through the pages to find something -- anything! -- that can be spun to be a prophecy.
I agree with both of you that this seems to be what is going on here. It is kind of sad, in a pathetic sort of way.
Then I'll post this next question to the both of you (and anyone else who has an opinion): If, in fact, these people aren't ignorant, but are actively resisting learning why their current beliefs are wrong, then what is the purpose of continuing to dialogue with them? What can we, as conservatives and science-minded folks, hope to learn or accomplish?
I don't dialogue with them. I post links and other information in response to nonsense, but there's no point in going further -- as these rambling threads can abundantly attest.
PH usually says he does it for the lurkers. I don't disagree, but I don't think there are too many lurkers out there who need help.
I ignore the hard core cases and look for the "softer" ones, where an intelligent discourse may have some impact. Unfortunately the "virtual ignore" list is quite long.
It is very difficult for me to accept that people who are purposely ignorant can sleep at night, but I am apparently wrong.