There is really only one question for human beings that matters. What, if any, is the purpose of existence, and what are we here for? It is a question that has underlain religious conviction and philosophic inquiry throughout human history, and to which scientific rationalism in recent centuries has added some important insights. It highlights two contesting views of the nature of reality: is there a purpose behind the universe, or is it a mechanistic universe driven by blind natural forces? Or is there indeed some alternative third explanation?
What is one to believe about the ultimates of human existence? What Michael Meacher seeks to do in this book is rather to assess the evidence without a predetermined worldview as a premise, and to decide objectively what the evidence points to.
I could not put this book down! I'm constantly trying to figure life out and Michael expressed many interesting ideas. If you're looking for a good mind-bender, this is your best option. I would give it 4 out of 5 stars.
Michael Meacher: Biography
Born in 1939, Michael Meacher was educated at Berkhamstead School, New College Oxford and the London School of Economics. He joined the Labour Party in 1962 and has been Labour Member of Parliament for Oldham West (now Oldham West and Royton) since 1970. He contested Colchester in 1966 and Oldham West in 1968.
Political career
His political appointments comprise: Under Secretary for Industry, 1974-75 Under Secretary for Health and Social Security, 1975-79 Candidate for Labour Party Deputy Leadership, 1983 Member of Labour Party National Executive Committee 1983-89 Member of Shadow Cabinet 1983-1997 Principal Opposition Front Bench Spokesman on: Health and Social Security 1983-87 Employment 1987-89 Social Security 1989-92 Overseas Development and Co-operation 1992-93 Citizen's Charter and Science 1993-94 Transport 1994-95 Employment 1995-96 Environmental Protection 1996-97 Minister of State for the Environment and Privy Counsellor May 1997 - June 2003
He is a Parliamentary representative and member of UNISON.
He was a member of the Select Committee on the Treasury and Civil Service (1981-83).
His other affiliations are the Fabian Society, SERA and the Child Poverty Action Group.
His hobbies include reading, sport and music.
O Books
February 16, 2010
272 pages
$19.95 US
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Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for free from Ascot Media Group, Inc. All opinions expressed are 100% mine. If you purchase a book using my Amazon or Barnes and Noble link, I will receive a small portion of the purchase price.
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