As for Jefferson, after reading some of his letters I’d say no, Darwin’s theory would not have changed his position. Jefferson was deeply skeptical of Biblical stories and myths, yet leaned toward the idea of a higher consciousness, and he admired some of the teachings of Jesus. There is nothing simple-minded about such a position, either then or now.

Richard Dawkins can think whatever he likes, but his opinions are no more valid than anyone else’s on that puzzling question to which no one alive has the answer. What difference does it matter whether a person believes or disbelieves? The truth is that the underlying basis for reality can not be understood in ordinary human terms.The only rational response is abject bewilderment, along with awe and reverence.

I suppose Dawkins thinks that all the matter and energy in the universe along with space and time and the laws and constants of physics all sort of popped into existence in a single moment just as an accident. Boy, what a sucker! Talk about simple-mindedness!