simulation theory
Existence as computation
Simulation theory is the philosophical hypothesis that reality as we experience it is actually an artificial simulation—likely a computer-generated construct created by a more advanced civilization.
The idea gained traction from the observation that if civilizations can create convincing simulations, statistically we're more likely to be in one than in base reality.
What if simulation theory is true and none of this matters?
The concept appears frequently in popular culture and tech philosophy discussions.
- virtual realityComputer-created interactive environment
- simulacraInsubstantial likenesses or copies
- codeSymbolic communication system
- science fictionSpeculative fiction with technological themes
- metaphysicsPhilosophy of existence's nature
hyperreality · ontology · free will · augmented reality · consciousness · thought experiment · determinism · existential risk · avatar · moral responsibility · solipsism · perception · glitch · dystopia · multiverse · video game · artificial intelligence · illusion
- Conspiraciesconspiracy, deep state, new world order, chemtrails, flat earth
- fan theoriessecret identity, hidden villain, brainwashing, mind control, memory wipe
- scientific theoriesevolution, general relativity, relativity, plate tectonics, special relativity
- cognitive sciencecognitive psychology, cognitive science, cognitive development, cognitive load, cognitive maps
- abstract conceptsparadox, emotions, justice, truth, beauty
- what-ifswhat if, hypothetical, thought experiment, speculation, conjecture
simulation theorymaterialism
Prioritizing goods over spirit
physicalism · naturalism · actuality · empiricism · spontaneous creation