There is only one fundamental alternative in the universe: existence or
non-existence—and it pertains to a single class of entities: to living
organisms. The existence of inanimate matter is unconditional, the existence of
life is not: it depends on a specific course of action. Matter is
indestructible, it changes its forms, but it cannot cease to exist. It is only
a living organism that faces a constant alternative: the issue of life or
death. Life is a process of self-sustaining and self-generated action. If an
organism fails in that action, it dies; its chemical elements remain, but its
life goes out of existence. It is only the concept of “Life” that makes the
concept of “Value” possible. It is only to a living entity that things can be
good or evil.