Is there a way we can formalize (that understanding) and make it scientifically rigorous rather than intuitive? ... I think that's a fully legitimate question.

There are polemical extremes that are getting more hostile to each other,

I'm sad to see that in my own (religious) tradition. I do understand what they're responding to. There are aggressive unbelievers. There are scientists who firmly believe that you can't be a scientist and you can't do science if you are a religious person.

I thought the issue was so polarized, I just didn't want to get caught,

I think evolutionary theory is compatible with faith,

I am at a loss understanding why at this point now they haven't just said, 'We're gonna outright dismiss the case.' I feel that's the appropriate thing to do.