Perspectives on Evolution

[Brian37]

I find it impossible to put up with this much idiocy from you, man, lol.  I have higher standards for you than for any of the random evolution objecting loons we get.

I don't object to evolution.  i object to the way in which metaphorical and objective language is mixed in talking about it.

Ok, I think I might be understanding you better now, feel free to correct me if I am getting it wrong.

We both accept evolution as fact.

But judged on this response, and again, if I am getting it wrong,  correct me.

Language is all humans have to communicate. Words to a layperson cannot be, and should not be confused for how when scientists use language.

So when I first responded to you about describing evolution like a deck of cards, I wasn't literally calling the DNA shuffle a deck of cards. But merely trying to give the reader a simplistic understanding of how it works without the technical deep detail. But I didn't come up with that metaphor to explain evolution, I got that from Richard Dawkins.

If I am understanding you correctly, the same thing can be said with the word "theory". Fearful gullible people use that word to say "that is just a guess". When scientist use the same word, it is not the same thing. "Theory" as used by science means observations rigorously tested and falsified and beat the shit out of by fellow scientists that still stand up to having the tires kicked.

There is no way to avoid human language. You can only point out the different uses in different contexts.

Even with conveying scientific concepts, I like metaphor. I can tell you if it were not for other atheists in my 16 years trying to explain concepts to me with metaphor, I would not have the knowledge in my head I do now.

Lets put it this way. Not everyone will understand the math and science and physics and technology to build a car from scratch. But everyone can understand the simple concept of a combustion engine, even if they cant build the car.

Point being, language is the only thing we have to communicate. There are always going to be people who twist what you say to suit their own agenda.