Ham-Nye Creation Debate Thoughts

No, I don't personally want to debate the issue right now - especially on something like Facebook.    Go on a run with me and we'll debate...while you're in oxygen-debt.  LOL. No, seriously, I would first debate more fundamental issues regarding how we know what we know and what the nature of evidence and proof is before debating the Young Earth Creationion vs. Neo-Darwinian Evolution question.  Philosophy matters.  In any event, Christians of good will can and do disagree on Old Earth vs. Young Earth Creation, but the disagreement is particularly vehement and full of caricature, ill-will, and vitriol when it comes to Christians and Secularists debating the very validity of the Young Earth Creation view.  Christian and Secular names and groups are all abuzz about this debate between Ken Ham and Bill Nye - so it's somewhat of a big deal.  It touches the popular consciousness and popular culture.  I'm not going to listen real-time tonight...there's no rush.  However, I plan on listening later.  I will predict a few things though:

1. If Ken Ham wins the debate the other side will immediately attribute the win to his debating skill, debating "tricks", and the fact he, in essence, had the "home field advantage."

2. If Bill Nye wins the debate Secularists will be happy and attribute it to the superiority of the conventional Neo-Darwinian view as well as of science unhampered by supernatural presuppositions.

3. If Ken Ham wins the debate, those of the Young Earth Creation view will be happy and attribute it to the superiority of what they consider not only the obvious understanding of the Genesis creation account, but of science unhampered by naturalistic presuppositions.

4. Most people will not have their minds changed.

From what little I've read, it seems that Nye's side is preparing for a debate defeat.  Many of his ideological kindred strongly object to his even taking part in the first place  since they feel it lends validity to the opposing view - Young Earth Creationism.  Sorry, that objection is weak.  If Young Earth Creationism is such a weak and outlandish view, then why fear debate?  If the position is so unassailable then why attempt to make it (Neo-Darwinian Evolution) the winner even if Nye loses.  I weary of excuses like this.  If creationists are such boneheads, and Creationism such an unworthy and silly position, then don't fear discussion and debate.

Because I know some out there will suggest doubting Neo-Darwinian Evolution is like doubting gravity, let me say a few words.  Doubting the Neo-Darwinian Evolutionary model is not akin to doubting gravity.  The evolution we actually observe happening is not the same as the evolution we postulate happened but did not in fact observe.  They're different - so let's not use these types of objections which are used primarily to make the Creationist look silly.

As with all debates, I hope that both sides respect the humanity and dignity of their opponent.  I hope both sides start with the assumption that their opponent comes in good will and wishes only to promulgate and support the truth - whatever it is. This is the same attitude we should have regarding anyone with whom we disagree.  It is especially at attitude that someone called by Christ should have.