In episode 63 of “This Week in Creationism,” I discuss a variety of topics, reflecting on recent developments within the young Earth creationist community and scientific observations that challenge their narratives. Here’s a link to Episode 63 and a summary of the key points addressed in that episode:
Ken Ham vs. Gavin Orland: A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the interaction between Ken Ham of Answers in Genesis and theologian/pastor Gavin Orland. Orland has criticized the young Earth creationist perspective, particularly challenging the interpretation of Noah’s flood as a global event and the literal six-day creation narrative. I highlight Ham’s response to Orland gracious series of criticisms of the young-age viewpoint, pointing out the defensive stance of Ham and his refusal to consider interpretations of Genesis that diverge from his own.
Climate Skepticism at Answers in Genesis: I discuss Answers in Genesis’ stance on climate change, noting their skepticism towards the consensus on climate science and now they have become more and more outspoken in their climate skepticism. I critique an article from Answers in Genesis that questions the reality of Earth’s climate crisis, calling out the organization for using an unqualified writer who uses cherry-picking data and relies on misinformation to make their points.
Dinosaur-Bird Connection Obsession: I also touch on Answers in Genesis’ fixation with disproving the connection between dinosaurs and birds, particularly focusing on the dinosaur Archaeopteryx. I Â find it noteworthy that despite significant scientific evidence that organisms existed in the past that had both bird and dinosaur-like traits, Answers in Genesis, through figures like Calvin Smith, continues to argue against this connection without substantial paleontological expertise and in spite of other Young-Earth creationists with expertise that say they are wrong.
Fossil Footprints Predating Birds: I Â discuss a paper published in the PLOS ONE journal that identifies trackways resembling modern birds’ footprints in South Africa, dated to be millions of years older than the oldest bird fossils. This finding challenges the young Earth creationist timeline and suggests that bird-like footprints existed long before birds, according to the scientific understanding of evolution and the fossil record.
Critique of Young Earth Creationist Arguments: Throughout the episode, I critique the young Earth creationist approach to science, highlighting their selective use of data, reluctance to engage with contrary evidence, and the promotion of misinformation. I also emphasize the importance of engaging with scientific evidence and maintaining an open dialogue on these topics.
Naturalis Historia 