This book represents one particular valid approach to being alive in the twenty first century. Written by a relatively typical human type brain of that time frame, it is informed by the work of many giants over many centuries - a distillation of whatever knowledge I've absorbed through my psychic skin and whatever conclusions I've come to in contemplating that knowledge. It's the culmination of twenty seven years work. It's what made me want to write in the first place. It's what made me think I had something specific to bring to the table. It's a what-is book. It's a how-to book. And it's a why-bother book. It's also, apparently, a lot-of-hyphens book. It's about skepticism, elitism, the cosmic perspective, relaxation, utilitity, compassion and argument, among other things. It's also, in my opinion, a big bag of chuckles. While writing it and reading it in that process, it reminded me of my best thoughts and helped me to try and live up to my best impulses. I hope it brings you the same kind of nourishment. If not, it can also serve as a perfectly servicable doorstop.