Yes.

Not sure. I am sure their beliefs are sincerely held, even if one cannot accept them for oneself. Whether one thinks this constitutes 'delusion', or what other word would be preferable, is something I shall give some thought to. But, taking it that the word is used simply in the sense of 'believing in postulates which appear to us untenable', I can't really see why it should be found offensive. If you nevertheless do find it offensive, what word would you prefer to express our opinion of your [as we see it] beliefs with whose embracing we can find no empathy?

If this makes me a 'jerk' in your view ~~ well, I have been called worse in my time and shall endeavour to live with it. But I can't feel that the word 'jerk' actually contributes much to the discussion; it seems to me far less definable in terms of rational disputation than is 'delusion'.

Regards

~M~