In case you are just now catching up, Roger Ebert posted a Q&A of creationist beliefs (6000 year old earth etc) on his blog the other day. The thought that such an apparently intelligent man could believe such nonsense caused quite a stir – PZ Meyers spoke about it here.

Today, PZ posted a follow-up after Ebert himself posted an explanation for the creationism satire. As usual, PZ’s analysis is insightful, as are the many comments left by readers of his blog.

One point I haven’t yet seen mentioned by either PZ or Ebert is that Ebert’s original article will, if my guess is right, be used extensively by creationists to bolster their dark-age views.

We’ve seen it before. Einstein, Stephen Hawking and even Charles Darwin have been quote-mined and taken out of context. And, despite our best efforts, as time passes, the myths of these incorrect uses of their words becomes further ingrained in those who would rather not delve deeper.

So, Mr. Ebert – although you may have made a point about our inability to see satire, you (and we) will pay a price.

Your name is, as we speak, undoubtedly being added to the list of people who believe in creationism. Well done.