The child
Hawking compares himself to a child, which emphasizes his sense of curiosity and unrelenting interest in the questions of the universe. He says that: "I am just a child who has never grown up. I still keep asking these "how" and "why" questions. Occasionally, I find an answer." Hawking credits his discoveries to his child-like nature, as it was his sense of relentless curiosity that made him carry on questioning and researching.
God
God and religion are mentioned repeatedly in this text. For example, Hawking writes that finding the answer about why it is that humanity and the universe exist would be to "know the mind of God." He does not necessarily mean this in a religious sense but is instead alluding to the power of knowing the answers. He also discusses religion and the idea of a creator of the universe, saying: "An expanding universe does not preclude a creator, but it does place limits on when he might have carried out his job."
Inclusivity
Hawking constantly reminds his readers that the pursuit of finding the answers to the universe is something that everybody can be a part of. He argues that curiosity has been a universal quality of humanity throughout history: "Ever since the dawn of civilization, people have not been content to see events as unconnected and inexplicable." He suggests that everybody can understand and enjoy science and that if everyone took an interest it would be to the benefit of humanity: "However, if we do discover a complete theory, it should in time be understandable in broad principle by everyone, not just a few scientists. Then we shall all, philosophers, scientists, and just ordinary people, be able to take part in the discussion of the question of why it is that we and the universe exist."
