These are all mere speculations. If these questions could be answered, we would have a clear and concise answer by now. We would have one true path to follow, but instead religions are still fighting over who is closest to god. So here we are, faced with an uncertainty about the cosmos and our place in it. We just don't know the answer.
Uncertainty equals loss of control.
People like being in control. Thats why more lottery tickets have been sold since the lottery commission allowed its players to choose their numbers. If they pick the numbers, they are in more control. Thats why people read their horoscopes, that if they know what is coming, they may be better control the outcome. It's not easy to give up control.