MP’s book examines the meaning of life

A BOOK written by an Oldham MP which examines why humans exist will be published next month.

“Destination of the Species: The Riddle of Human Existence” by Michael Meacher looks at why we are here, is there any purpose in existence and what does it all mean. The question has surrounded religious conviction and philosophic investigation throughout the years.

The 272-page paperback includes the tough issues of the evolution of the universe, the origin of the earth, the solar system, how did life begin and the process of the human — is there anything distinctive about people.

Mr Meacher said: “I wrote it because I was concerned about exactly what the book addresses. What is the purpose of life, was it to go into politics, make money, or something else?

“It is about 70,000 words and written very tightly, it is not an easy read. I am not a scientist but I have read extensively in science, cosmology, biology and chemistry and physics.

“In a way, the question — what are we here for? — is systematically unanswerable in any authoritative way, it is what people have asked for a millennia.

“I did not want to answer it, I did not come at it from any particular view point as I tried to avoid my pre-conceptions. The book looks at all the evidence there is out there and the contrary evidence.

“It took me 10 years to write it but I found it very satisfying.”

A review by George D Chryssides, head of religious studies at the University of Birmingham said: “I think it makes a worthwhile contribution to the field of religion and science.”

The Oldham West and Royton MP has written three other books, including one on the Bush administration and the 9/11 terror attack. He has also published many papers on varying subjects.

The book is available from January 31.