Creationist: $10K to anyone who can disprove Genesis

Evann Gastaldo, Newser | USATODAY

A California creationist believes the biblical book of Genesis is a literal account of the universe's origins -- and he's putting his money where his mouth is.

Joseph Mastropaolo is offering $10,000 to anyone who can successfully disprove a literal interpretation, using science, in front of a judge. He's calling the challenge the Literal Genesis Trial, the Guardian reports. Anyone who wants to take him up on the offer must also pony up his or her own $10,000; winner takes all.

A dispute resolution model known as a mini-trial would be used to hear the arguments from Mastropaolo and his opponent. A bailiff and court reporter will attend, in addition to a judge approved by both sides. Per the rules, all "evidence must be scientific, that is, objective, valid, reliable, and calibrated."

Mastropaolo, who has a PhD in kinesiology and has taught both biomechanics and physiology, says his goal is to heighten the quality of the creation science vs. evolution debate. But first he has to find a willing opponent:

"(Evolutionists) are not stupid people, they are bright, but they are bright enough to know there is no scientific evidence they can give in a mini-trial," he says.

Newser also reports that yet another state is calling for Punxsutawney Phil's head.