Many scientists were critical of Nye for accepting Ham 's invitation , claiming his participation in the debate gave Ham 's views undeserved legitimacy , but two humanist groups -- the American Humanist Association and the Center for Inquiry praised Nye 's decision .
They claimed his participation in the debate gave Ham 's views undeserved legitimacy . Two humanist groups -- the American Humanist Association and the Center for Inquiry praised Nye 's decision .