'Why is there something, rather than nothing?' From the ancient text found on The Emerald Tablet, the motion implicit in achieving higher levels of consciousness is explored through questions surrounding whether evolution proceeds through natural selection or by controlled design and whether the nature of evolution itself is changing. Along our journey we ask whether Gaia theory can by extended beyond an earthly arena, whether science and religion are really incompatible and how do paranormal experiences, such as clairvoyance, actually arise. Considerations of free will, choice, the nature of time and virtue will lead us to identify the obstacles to be found in the way of our survival and whether, or not, we are capable of developing the means to prevent the extinction of the human race.