Is Our Reality Just a Computer Simulation?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around the concept of reality as a computer simulation, referencing Nick Bostrom's "simulation argument." Participants mention various films, including "The Matrix" and "Dark City," that explore this theme. The conversation highlights the philosophical implications of simulation theories and suggests search terms for further exploration, such as "the matrix" in quotes combined with "philosophy." The discussion emphasizes the distinction between being a simulation and being within a simulation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Nick Bostrom's simulation argument
  • Familiarity with philosophical discussions surrounding reality
  • Knowledge of key films like "The Matrix" and "Dark City"
  • Basic concepts of cybernetics and quantum physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Nick Bostrom's "simulation argument" in detail
  • Explore philosophical texts on reality and simulation theory
  • Analyze the themes of "The Matrix" and "Dark City" in relation to simulation theory
  • Investigate the intersection of cybernetics and quantum physics
USEFUL FOR

Philosophers, film enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the implications of simulation theory and its representation in popular culture.

martine
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Hi all,

I once read an article about a sort of matrix theory: that we are only a computer simulation which a supercumputer runs in the future to let the people experience there what the past was like. Does that ring a bell to anyone? I really need this article again but am not sure what search terms to use.

thanks a lot,
Maritine
 
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Of course The Matrix was a series of hit movies on this theme, and the first one spawned a number of philosophical discussions of its theme. Try "the matrix" in quotes plus philosophy.
 
A primer on looking at quantum physics from the cybernetic point of view. This is for liberal arts majors. Mostly concepts, no technical jargon, good illustrations
http://www.bottomlayer.com/
 
A philosopher named Nick Bostrom has written about this. I think he called it "the simulation argument".
 
The matrix theory...

Nothing more than a hollywood movie.
 
Fredrik said:
A philosopher named Nick Bostrom has written about this. I think he called it "the simulation argument".

hi fredrik,

thanks a lot for your answer. that's something to continue with. hope i'll find the article now :)

martine
 
Just like to point out that there can be two types of simulation arguments. One where we ARE the simulation. And the other where we are IN the simulation, relatively speaking.
 
perhaps this will help:

http://www.onwardoverland.com/matrix/philosophy.html
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Matrix-like theories have been around before the The Matrix films, but they became popularized after the release of the films.

-Brad Barron
 
  • #10
Brad Barron said:
Matrix-like theories have been around before the The Matrix films, but they became popularized after the release of the films.

There was Dark City with Kiefer Sutherland, for example.
 
  • #11
Many great films are based off great theories. Actually, most interesting themes for films are based off some form of theory or legend.

-Brad Barron
 
  • #12
martine said:
Hi all,

I once read an article about a sort of matrix theory: that we are only a computer simulation which a supercumputer runs in the future to let the people experience there what the past was like. Does that ring a bell to anyone? I really need this article again but am not sure what search terms to use.

thanks a lot,
Maritine
There is a movie with the exact theme that you are talking about. It's NOT The Matrix however; I think the movie was called 13th floor. I could be wrong :(

The movie was about our time (and a few other time periods) only being simulations, and some guy entered one of these simulations, killed a few people, hopped from sim to sim, caused some havoc, etc etc
 

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