So here we go with the answer to the first question in Series 10 of Five Questions.

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Question 1: What is the nature of the universe? Does it function by itself or would it degenerate into chaos without some kind of intelligent control?

As a scientist, I tell you: We haven’t got a clue; it’s being worked on although we don’t believe in intelligent control (or intelligent design).

As a (sort of) vaguely Buddhist-cum-Taoist, I tell you: No-one has a clue, nor ever will have.
As an “ordinary Joe” in the street, I tell you: Nothing the fuck to do with me, mate.
So yeah, basically, search me!