This is incorrect. ID can does make such predictions. Behe's approach, for example, predicts that attempt to generate IC systems using undirected natural processes will fail in real time. That is a definite prediction, and readily falsifiable.

"How will we determine the designed differences from the random mutations?"

One way is this: We can try to determine what is the shortest sequence of mutations from one genotype to the other, and figure out whether the number of mutations involved is consistent with what is independently known about rates of mutation, genetic drift, etc.

"SETI would be doomed if all they expected to find were unlikely combinations of naturally occurring signals."

Good point. I'm glad I never asserted such a thing.

"We have lifeforms."

Yes.

"We know they got here somehow."

Yes.

"The only means of origin of these lifeforms that we have evidence for are natural means. We have no evidence of any outside interference (space alien or supernatural)."

No. Irreducible complexity is prima facie evidence of non-natural means.

"The only evidence that opponents have is that they don't understand something, so we should give up and go with something that we have no evidence even exists."

No. We do understand something about irreducibly complex systems, namely that the ones whose origin we have direct knowledge of are all made by intelligent agents. That's real knowledge, and it simply won't do to ignore it. And as I've had to point out repeatedly, evidence for design is evidence for the existence of a designer. Further evidence, though no doubt welcome, is not necessary.

-- Todd Moody, assoc. prof. of philosophy, St. Joseph's University (posted 2/12, 9:20 a.m., U.S. Eastern time)

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