According to Chapter 8, what is the true purpose of human life, and how does it contrast with a life of mere survival?

Chapter 8 presents a strong philosophical argument about the purpose of human existence. It posits that the true duty of being human is the attainment of the Supreme Self (Paramatman). The text critically asks if life is merely about being born, growing, and breathing, or engaging in basic activities like eating, sleeping, fear, and mating. As explained in Chapter 8, these activities are common to animals like dogs and pigs. The chapter argues that if these physical and instinctual pursuits are the sole focus, then the precious human birth is rendered useless. A human is meant to be free and fearless, and the realization of the Eternal is presented as the true success of birth.