Was at least the first life form created?

[Eilonnwy]

Do you think it is possible to have a basic understanding of evolution (common descent), or even an in depth understanding of it, without actually agreeing with it?

I would have to say yes, because I can't account for everyone's understanding of evolution versus their acceptance of creationism, even though it's hard for me to imagine someone understanding evolution and refusing it. It baffles me that people could have an in depth understanding of evolution and refuse to believe it because of their religious preconceptions. And it brings me back to my original point about religious convictions stifling science. If you can't accept a scientific fact because you would rather believe God created the first humans in the Garden of Eden, that's where the answer of "God did it" prevents scientific inquiry.

Everyone has preconceptions, I understand that. However, to not accept a scientific fact based on religious convictions, to me that's ignorant. There's no nicer way to put it.