'As an innovative treatment of scientific topics with philosophical undertones, this is an impressive work, Some may not be convinced by the arguments, but for scientists and philosophers alike the author presents a thesis worth exploring.'CHOICEThe book describes a common ground between the biology of life and the humanity of life without compromising either discipline. It attempts to bridge the gap between our 'two cultures' — the sciences and the humanities, as advocated by C P Snow fifty years ago. This book connects our meager existence to the entire living world and the universe, physically and spiritually, through the simple perspective of 'self,' being defined as a system that seeks its own perpetuation.