One of the things I have heard/read from the creationists is that "there is no accurate way to tell how old fossils really are." and "scientists have no way of accurately testing ages of old things."

Those statements bother me to no end.

Ummmm... yeah. I'd better keep my mouth shut




Ok, I have to say that there is a difference between accuracy and precision. But I folks who hold these types of opinions are not usually never swayed by logical arguments. As a young college student I used to debate these things vigorously (and enjoyed it!) but I'm past all that now. I think.

Too bad, I know a guy who'd really give you food for thought! I have to say, Biblically based scientific discussions about all of the science/church "controversies" are more engaging than score discussions! His talk on dinosaurs is both fascinating and brilliant, and not nearly as closed-minded as you would think.

I apologize, Dottie. I overgeneralized.

But, I think Dottie, your friend is the exception rather that the rule. I would LOVE to talk to him, though. I became really interested in theology last year, it's fascinating and complex and fun if you find the right people to discuss with!
You have to be careful though, I friend of mine accused me of being influenced/controlled by the devil because I did not agree with her on a point she found defining.
Ouch.

See, I'd have too much fun with that, 'Neato! Oh, so many ways to play with her head after that!!! (And I'm sorry, but someone who actually says that to you mid-discussion is asking for it, said the former teacher of argument...)

I know, I know! Trust me I know how to shut a person down with my verbal skills. It's just that, in this situation, I just backed away quietly.
She scary!

Oh, I'm not talking about shutting her down. I'm talking about keeping her going! <evil cackle>

I'm not usually a mean-spirited person, but saying that you're working for Satan is just too rich. It needs to be played along with!!!

Of course, you did say she was a friend, so maybe this response would be inappropriate on my part, but I probably wouldn't be able to help myself. I hate smug and illogical people. Saying you're in league with the devil as a way to deal with a disagreement is both smug and an illogical, and it BEGS for someone (me!) to poke it!

She's not a friend anymore.
Actually I thing accusing a person of being possessed during a religous debate is pretty diabolical in itself.

EXACTLY! I mean, it's a total conversation-stopper. And it just begs for a response that really DOES sound satanic, or one even more holier-than-thou than hers, or...

The mind boggles!!!!