I can provide you with information on how these questions are often addressed from a secular or non-religious perspective:
(a) The concept of the human soul is rooted in religious and philosophical beliefs, particularly those that posit a non-physical essence or consciousness separate from the body. From a secular standpoint, which does not assume the existence of a soul, the origin of human consciousness and subjective experiences is an area of ongoing scientific investigation. Current scientific understanding suggests that consciousness and subjective experiences emerge from the complex interactions of neural activity in the brain.
(b) Humans possess higher cognitive abilities compared to other animals due to a combination of evolutionary processes and the unique development of our brains. Through the process of evolution by natural selection, humans have developed advanced cognitive abilities such as language, abstract thinking, problem-solving, and complex social interactions. Our larger brains and sophisticated neural networks provide the biological basis for our intellectual capacities.
(c) The innate desire for something beyond the material world, often referred to as a spiritual or transcendent longing, is a complex aspect of human nature. From a secular perspective, this desire can be seen as a reflection of our cognitive and emotional capacity to ponder existential questions and seek meaning and purpose in life. Humans have a natural curiosity and a drive to explore the unknown. This desire for transcendence can manifest in various ways, including philosophical and existential contemplation, artistic expression, and the search for personal fulfillment and connection with others.
It is important to recognize that there are diverse perspectives among atheists, and individuals may have different interpretations or explanations for these questions based on their personal beliefs, philosophies, or scientific understanding.