The Science of Why We Exist: A History of the Universe from the Big Bang to Consciousness

by Tim Coulson

From the Big Bang and the evolution of the genetic code to the birth of consciousness, this is the extraordinary story of the chain of events that led to human life on earth.Have you ever wondered why you exist? What had to happen for you to be alive and conscious? Scientists have come a long way in answering this question, and this book describes what they have found out. It also examines whether our existence was inevitable at the universe’s birth 13.77 billion years ago—or whether we are just incredibly lucky. The book is aimed at readers who are interested in science but are not experts. Written in an entertaining and accessible style, the narrative begins by describing how scientists discover facts before taking the reader on a journey from the Big Bang to the creation of the human genome. Covering physics, astronomy, chemistry, earth sciences, the emergence of life, evolution, consciousness, the rise of humanity, and how our personalities are moulded by genes, chance, and the environment, the journey explains how the universe started as point of intense energy that over time, in our corner of the universe, resulted in our wonderful planet—and in you.

Genres: Science, Nonfiction, Physics, Science Nature

459 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 2, 2024

Reviews

[Sekar Writes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review and summary.

A fascinating book that explores how everything—from the universe to human life—came to be. Coulson starts with the Big Bang and explains how the universe formed, covering topics like gravity and other forces that hold everything together. He even discusses how the first forms of life may have appeared, which made me think about how small and simple life once was, and how it gradually became more complex.

What really impressed me was how Coulson explains big scientific ideas in a way that’s easy to understand. He breaks down tough concepts, like physics and biology, into simple, bite-sized pieces that don’t feel overwhelming. Even if you’re not a science expert, this book makes the topics approachable. I especially enjoyed the little jokes and analogies he includes, like comparing Earth to a "scotch egg"—it’s these fun moments that keep the reading light and enjoyable.

Coulson also dives into how scientific research works and why it’s important, helping readers see the bigger picture of science and discovery. The book raises an interesting question: Were humans always meant to exist, or are we just really lucky? This thought stayed with me long after I finished the book.

It’s more than just a science book—it’s a journey through time and space that helps you understand where we come from and why we’re here. If you’re curious about the universe but find science books intimidating, I highly recommend giving this one a try.

[Mariana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Sapiens before this, I like to think this is the prequel. The title captivated me because I’ve been intrigued about consciousness as a DNA for energy and entropy. This book made physics perfectly digestible and I am really thankful for that. The journey of assembly of life is fascinating and I deeply value that Tim made it accessible for the general public rewarding curiosity with digestible science. As a neuroscientist I was left wanting more with the consciousness chapter but overall I think this book is great at sparking curiosity and filling gaps from high school science. What makes it great is having the information together in a book where you are almost reading the biography of life, the story of science.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I appreciate the large font. Very thorough and enjoyable read- though science background allows the reader to appreciate it more. The author seems to have Deist leanings rather than being a true atheist or agnostic- I am Deist myself, so I can identify with that.

[Carlos · Rating 2 out of 5]

An ambitious book that doesn’t always hold the reader’s attention. Coulson’s choice to start his chronicle at the beginning of the universe complicates the narrative as it forces him to jump into several disciplines, from physics, to chemistry, to biology, to sociology and psychology. It is clear that his expertise is in biology where he can enliven the prose and take it out of the textbook-style that dominates all other sections. Unfortunately, this only arrives towards the end of book, which though significantly picking up the reader’s interest also comes after an exhausting trudge through “textbooks” in college physics and chemistry.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. After finishing the book, I felt that not only was it “Big History", it was also a great introduction to physics, chemistry, astronomy, and biology. It really covered all the bases in a clear, conversational tone with some great humour. There was also a lot of great information on how science works. Tim Coulson’s personal journey was also very interesting. If I had any criticism of the book, it would be that too much time was given to consciousness and happiness. Nonetheless, a superb read. Thank you to Edelweiss and Pegasus Books for the digital review copy.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book for those who like science. Some parts are hard, others are easier. It probably depends on the reader’s background. The book has chapters on physics, chemistry, earth science, biology, evolution, neuroscience, and human development. All of which are linked to what is necessary for life and why we exist.