To Samuel: Thank you for your considered, articulate, and courteous response.
My issue is not with theories per say, they are certainly a starting point, but they create potential traps.  I take issue with narrow thinking on both sides of the “Evolution Theory”.  Creationism leaves no room for change or facts.  If I may say, by your and my definition it isn’t even a theory; it’s a belief. 

I am fascinated by our origins and the present explanations, even if I find them lacking.  I would hope the leading archeologists would look carefully at the apparent “sudden” appearance of us “modern humans” and realize there are more questions than answers.  As a layman in this field I can only use my intelligence to question and ask for an open-minded exploration of the origins of our species.

It is interesting to note that our intelligence does not seem to be significantly, if at all, greater than that of ancient cultures, to wit: the Greeks.  It may only be our technology (an extension of our intelligence) that makes us appear more intelligent than our ancestors.

I do not have an alternative theory, only questions and a lot of curiosity.  So I will continue to question.

Thank you,

Verne Arnold,
Ban Pong, Thailand

In response to Verne #52948, the debate between evolution and creationism has been greatly disserved by people who do not understand the word “theory” in a scientific context. In science, “theory” does not refer to a guess or an unfounded hypothesis. It is the highest label of certainty attainable based upon measured evidence and experimentation. Note some other “theories” in science: gravitational theory, molecular theory, germ theory, etc.

A theory is the best explanation of known facts and the best predictor of future experimental results in any particular field. The only way that a theory is removed and/or replaced is by something that offers even more explanatory power and better predictions based on new tangible evidence.

As one who doesn’t believe the CURRENT THEORY (and I stress, it is a THEORY) of evolution, I find this highly disturbing.  Brainwashing on any level is clearly wrong. 

The “Clovis Point” in America, is the holy grail and the mainstream Archeologists hold it dear.  It essentially says humans weren’t here before 20,000 years ago.  A German woman researching in Brazil has found evidence humans were here 60,000 years ago.  I might add this refers to modern humans!  The Clovis Point people think she’s mad.
So, what’s my point? 
The present theory of evolution is skewed with assumptions and narrow thinking.  Creation almost and again I stress ALMOST, makes more sense than the current “theories” of evolution.
As for myself, I think we haven’t yet got a clue and when is all said and done we will be very surprised, possibly shocked at our origins, if we ever actually find the facts.

Thank you,

Verne Arnold, Ban Pong Thailand

I agree completely with Stephen #52764.
Nothing Sullivan said referred to evolution.
Scientists aren’t committed to destroying anyone’s faith.  I believe in God, and Evolution.

There is a big difference between denying accepted scientific facts, as anti-evolutionists do, and having an unwavering faith in God, as is the case of Andrew Sullivan. It seems like a cheap shot to link him to this documentary.