[No_Foolin'?]

I see what you're getting at. Well, my guess is based on the general case. I guess that he's ill-informed and on some level knows he is, but is unwilling to admit it to himself. My guess is that in his mind there's too much at stake to ask too many questions and be open to too much discussion.

But, no, I don't think he is making these arguments in a consciously-manipulative way. I think he is simply unable and unwilling to face the truth.