What makes people irrational thinkers?

[The Architect Of Fate]

"Burden of proof" is way overrated.

Only to those who have a vested interest in avoiding it 

It's not writ in stone. It's often used as a way to avoid defending one's own position. If the goal is to "win" something in a debate club, it may be useful. If we're trying to work out the truth, as best we can, it's an interruption.

Nope it's a good totally defendable position to hold positive claims to the fire and only people who want to push unfounded bullshit would have a serious objection to it

If he has reasons for his position, he should give them. If we have reasons why we find his position unpersuasive, we should give them. Meanwhile if we find better alternative explanations they may be useful.

Nope no one is under obligation to refute him or give an alternative  it's his job to convince other people and if he fails that is that