MTW writes:
the universe has less meaning without sentient awareness
I have long thought that conscious to be a major change in the state of the universe.
Prior to conscious thought (any where in the universe) the mechanics of the universe on a macro level must be mechanically mediated. That is to say that classical physsical laws appear to apply (on the macro scale). Changes on the quamtum level have no real effect on the macro level.
Cometh conscious thought and you add choice into the mix. One can choice to move the mouse on your desk in a way that would never happen (at that space/time) if you had not done so. Quantum changes in our brain effect a macro change in the internal state of the universe.
I would hazard that the coming of consciousness brought a massive increase in entropy.
We are indeed special, very special. But I see absolutley no support for Theism here.