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Simulation theory: basics part 2

Let’s follow up from our last post on the basic beginner’s definition of simulation theory. This time we will talk a little bit about Talbot’s Holographic Universe and expand on Virk’s multi-layered hypothesis.

Let’s start where we left off. There are many other aspects of Virk’s argument presented in the ‘Simulation Hypothesis’ including the possibility that the simulation we are in may be AI-powered. Virk even suggests that we ourselves could be downloaded artificial consciousness (agents operating within the simulated environment).

There are so many important subjects discussed that each need their own post, but some of the topics that make up this argument include; AI, downloadable consciousness, Eastern/Western philosophy and religion, PCs and NPCs, the role of quantum mechanics and clues it may provide, alien phenomena, NDEs (near-death experiences) and out-of-body experiences, karma and reincarnation, synchronicity and limitations within our reality (such as optimization techniques). As you see, it’s tough to simplify simulation theory.

Virk’s background in the gaming industry was fundamental to his simulation argument as the mechanics are almost identical in the production of video games. The biggest argument against simulation theory is that the world is so deeply complicated, and has so many players and quirks, that it would not be possible to simulate due to resource limitation. Virk believes that the fact that QI (quantum indeterminacy) is evidenced in this world is an argument for simulation theory, as just like in the production of a video game, rendering (only generating what is observed) is a common optimization technique used. This suggests that reality may well be being generated, but probably on computers with power beyond our comprehension.

Elon Musk once stated that the chances we are in a base-reality (not in a simulation) is “one in billions”. His most used analogy is to the rate of technological progression, especially in video games. This was reaffirmed in a 2021 tweet. Virk has the same view and suggests that even in as little as 10 years, games will be almost lifelike (VR and AR being discussed in his book). 100 years from now would be unimaginable as quantum computing (and potentially much greater advances) will revolutionize everything. Essentially, they both believe that an advanced civilization is simulating our world, which could be an ancestry simulation as considered by Nick Bostrom.

Talbot’s Holographic Universe suggests that our 3D environment is more akin to a hologram, again suggesting that the material world we touch and perceive isn’t ‘real’ in the way we might assume it to be. The outside is actually within us and not the opposite way around. Our external environment is just a product of electrical signals being interpreted in the brain, much like a computer. Almost like a dream in real time, Talbot posits that we have a lot more control and influence over this reality through our thoughts and willpower.

Talbot attempts to bridge the gap between science and spirituality, reinforcing the notion of oneness and the illusion of separation that we create. He also zooms in on the idea of non-locality, that maybe our world isn’t constrained by our perceived physical limitations (quantum entanglement), again suggesting our world is more than likely a digital creation.

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