Final answer:
The author supports their claims about human artifacts and intelligence through comparisons between artifacts and the universe, discussions around human intellect, acknowledgment of counterarguments, and a summary of unique human characteristics.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author supports the claim stated in the book by presenting a series of arguments and evidence throughout the text. For instance, the claim that human artifacts are products of intelligent design is supported by drawing parallels between these artifacts and the complexity of the universe. This comparison suggests that the universe itself may be a product of design, much like human artifacts that are intentionally crafted.
Additionally, the book points out the unique capacity of human intellect to wonder about our planet and what lies beyond it, which indirectly supports the view that humans have an innate drive to understand and possibly shape their environment. This claim is reinforced in the book by the idea that the universe becomes aware of itself through humans and possibly other intelligent life forms.
Furthermore, the author engages with counterarguments to their core message, such as the optimistic view that humans are innovative and capable of overcoming challenges. However, this is counterbalanced by highlighting the current realities of environmental impact and planetary boundaries that humans are encountering, thus strengthening the original claim by suggesting that this time in history might be unique and more challenging.
The final section on inhabitants and a chapter summary provides a conclusion that encapsulates human characteristics, suggesting that these qualities contribute to our ability to manipulate and understand our surroundings, thereby supporting the claim regarding the significance of human intelligence in the universe.