Environmental change certainly would have an influence on the rate of evolution. Kauffman points out that complex systems often display a degree of order which is inherent in the system and the way in which its components interact. This order doesn't have to be explained by a tedious trial and error process such as natural selection. He uses computer models to support his ideas. It is often claimed that belief in evolution is no different from belief in religion.
Biologists are, of course, human.
In their debates with creationists and intelligent design advocates they can indeed become dogmatic and emotional. This is a mistake, but we should forgive it on both sides of the argument because we humans are naturally emotional and subject to making numerous kinds of mistakes. But natural selection is not a dogma. It is first of all an observable process. Therein lies the problem.