This is a very well expressed post (as one expects from Charlie); it's been bothering me for a while that in our accommodating culture we are expected to “respect” other's beliefs if they are based on religion, but not necessarily if they are based on facts, experience or reason. I think that makes no sense, and well done Mr Glickman for pointing it out.
I don't even discuss my theological views because they are entirely subjective, based on my personal experience and not therefore verifiable, or deserving of the slightest thought on anyone else's part. The idea that my opinion should get extra credit precisely because it has no basis in objective reality is nonsense.
I'm sure you have an opinion: do share!