Relativity tells us every observation of the universe is affected by the temporal and spatial relationship between the observer and the observed.

Quantum theory teaches us the very act of measuring a quantity or an event alters it. Things do not exist as binary, yes or no phenomena. They are statistical wave functions that are collapsed by the act of observation.

Thermodynamics is all about the flow of energy from areas of low disorder to increasing disorder, that the concept of energy itself is intimately associated with the concepts of complexity and information.

The only constant, immutable quantity known is nature is the speed at which it is possible to transmit information: c. c is algebraically related to matter and energy (E = Mc**2). c is written in terms of units of space and time (c = s/t). The universe can be entirely understood as matter and energy interacting in time and space. What else is there?

Observation, measurement, order, complexity, information--these are all ideas associated with perception, which in turn is all about consciousness. Thought and intelligence are intimately involved with the universe, it doesn't make any sense to talk about one and not the other. The universe needs consciousness to impose order on it or it is simply undifferentiated chaos. The universe had to create us in order to establish its own existence, because without observation or measurement the whole 'scientific' concept of reality is simply gibberish. We need to be here. We have a right to be here. Maybe even a duty.

If a tree falls in the forest it will certainly make a noise, but it doesn't really matter unless someone hears it.