The Rabbit Hole of Research
Rabbit Hole of Research
26: Are we living in a Computer Game? Exploring the Simulation Hypothesis
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26: Are we living in a Computer Game? Exploring the Simulation Hypothesis

Join us as we dive into the simulation hypothesis, discussing its plausibility, cultural representations, and its intersection with AI, multiverse theories, and more.

In the first episode of season two, hosts Joe, Georgia, and Nick, along with guest Wes, dive deep into the simulation hypothesis. They discuss definitions of simulation reality, nested realities, and stage realities, using examples from pop culture such as The Matrix, Westworld, Ready Player One, Free Guy, and The Sims. The conversation also touches on the Double Slit Experiment, AI simulation apps, and the Mandela Effect. This episode raises intriguing questions about the nature of our reality and whether we might be living in a sophisticated simulation.

Question to start you digging your own holes as you listen:

1. If we discovered tomorrow that we’re living in a simulation, how would it change the way you live your life?

2. If we are in a simulation, does free will still exist, or is it an illusion?

3. Do you think advanced civilizations would create ancestor simulations for research, entertainment, or another purpose entirely?

4. If we created simulations populated by sentient beings, would we have a moral obligation to them? How does this relate to artificial intelligence ethics today?

5. Could the rise of VR, AR, and AI be steps toward humans becoming creators of simulations, repeating the cycle of nested realities?

To get more insight and see how deep the rabbit hole goes, check out the (timestamped) expanded show notes.

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Artwork by Georgia Geis: See Georgia’s art on Instagram @atomic_number14


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The Rabbit Hole of Research
Rabbit Hole of Research
Our goal is to have fun learning science through the lens of science fiction, fantasy, and pop-culture. We will start in one place and let the conversation lead us down the winding scenic road exploring the science in science fiction, separating the facts from the Handwavium. We’ll have a little fun and you’ll learn a few facts you can use to impress your friends at a party or use as a conversation starter to go down your own rabbit holes.