Dan

I saw “Root of All Evil” and also his series on Science he did a few years ago (I forget its name) and many of his appearances in other programmes – e.g. he was recently on Jonathan Miller’s history of atheism. I have read the “The Selfish Gene”, “The Blind Watchmaker”, “Climbing Mount Improbable” and parts of “The Ancestor’s Tale”. I have twice heard him speak live. I also strongly disagree with much of what he says. I am not an acolyte.

I have accepted above that I was wrong and you were right – I forgot some of his comments that could be taken as being personal abuse. My main point was to compare him to what I hear about Ms Coulter. Would you disagree that she is far head of him in the personal abuse league?

Well babbling it is. I’ve been too hasty basing my comment on just one slanderous remark derived from the book’s forum on Amazon. Too bad for me. She’s apparently single.

Family values anyone?

Take a hike. Make it a long one. -ds

These are a few quotes he is well known for. If you are unfamiliar with these quotes, I think you most likely have not read any of his books, watched any television appearances or have read any of his newpaper articles. I recommend that you consider spending some time reading these. Also, if you disagree with a person, it is recommended that you read their work so you can know what you are disagreeing with.

Best
Dan

Re #9 – I don’t understand your argument. That was to make a TV programme for a UK audience. Many people in the UK are aware of, and somewhat interested in, the US religious right. He talked to a number of other people in the US at the same time. It was clearly a good use of his time. (Incidentally we have lots of churches but are rather low on congregations).

Re #12 – well, of course, I don’t know all the details of his life. These fist-pumping rallies don’t appear in his public schedule – have a look at the link Dave has kindly provided. But maybe you have another source of information.

“It is absolutely safe to say that if you meet somebody who claims not to believe in evolution, that person is ignorant, stupid or insane (or wicked, but I’d rather not consider that).” Dawkins, Richard (1989), “Book Review” (of Donald Johanson and Maitland Edey’s Blueprint), The New York Times, section 7, April 9.

But GilDodgen’s reference is more recent.

From Wikipedia: “The primary aspect of the Nuremberg Rallies was the almost religious focus on Adolf Hitler, portraying Hitler as Germany’s savior, chosen by providence.”

So Dawkins compares Haggard to Hitler and says that Hitler’s Minister of Propaganda would be proud. I’d say that’s a pretty good example of personal abuse.

Stu Harris
http://www.theidbookstore.com

Well, yes and when making the video in which he portrays American Christians as dangerous zealots, Dawkins could edit the tape to his advantage and his opponents disadvantage. Can’t do that on someone else’s TV show.