[steve-b]

Of course, the statement that a certain notion "was credible in the twelfth century, but is not credible in the twentieth" is shorthand for the statement that the notion conflicts with knowledge gained during the intervening time. I'll presume that Chesterton addresses this in the larger context from which the quote is drawn.

That said, there is no corresponding defense of Dershowitz's statement -- the threat of aggression, including terrorism, has always been with us.

[The Schnoid from Sheboygan]

Of course, the statement that a certain notion "was credible in the twelfth century, but is not credible in the twentieth" is shorthand for the statement that the notion conflicts with knowledge gained during the intervening time. I'll presume that Chesterton addresses this in the larger context from which the quote is drawn.

I'd considered that very point when citing Chesterton's quote. But, reading his words in context, one sees that he is not talking about knowledge, derived via the scientific method, life experience, or the logical processes. Instead, he is speaking of the creeds and philosophies (i.e., what is right & wrong) which one obtains from one's presuppositions. And it this point of Chesterton's which I was applying to Dipshitwitz's notions. But I think you already knew that, right?