Book excerpt: How does one’s upbringing determine one’s ethical and religious views? Are humans unique in this universe? Is God dead as Nietzsche declared? Is there any truth beyond scientific facts? How different religions relate to one another? What are the truth and falsehoods in various religions? Are communism and nihilism more in sync with reality than religion? How should’ we prioritise between self-interest and sacrifice? What should be our individual role to seek global peace? Is there a higher purpose in life than just living? The author—a scientist, scholar, innovator, entrepreneur and philanthropist—discusses these questions in a well-argued treatise, sprinkled with memorable episodes and anecdotes.