The universe has become not only conscious and aware of itself but capable in some respects of choosing its path into the future--though all three, the consciousness, the knowledge, and the choice, are dispersed over a vast crowd of beings, acting both individually and collectively.
Thomas NagelAbsurdity is one of the most human things about us: a manifestation of our most advanced and interesting characteristics.
Thomas NagelEveryone is entitled to commit murder in the imagination once in a while, not to mention lesser infractions.
Thomas NagelIf sub specie aeternitatis [from eternity's point of view] there is no reason to believe that anything matters, then that does not matter either, and we can approach our absurd lives with irony instead of heroism or despair.
Thomas Nagel