Simulation Hypothesis Flashcards
What is the simulation hypothesis?
The simulation hypothesis suggests that reality as we experience it may be an artificial simulation, possibly created by advanced computing systems.
Who first proposed the idea of the universe as a computational construct?
Konrad Zuse, in his 1969 book ‘Rechnender Raum’ (Calculating Space), proposed the idea that the universe is a result of computation.
Who popularized the modern simulation hypothesis?
Philosopher Nick Bostrom popularized the hypothesis with his 2001 simulation argument.
What is Bostrom’s trilemma in the simulation hypothesis?
Bostrom’s trilemma suggests that one of three propositions is almost certainly true: 1) Technological maturity is never reached, 2) Advanced civilizations choose not to simulate past entities, or 3) Most conscious beings are in simulations.
According to Bostrom, if advanced civilizations can simulate consciousness, what is the implication for conscious beings?
If advanced civilizations can create conscious simulations, most conscious beings are likely in simulations rather than in biological realities.
What philosophical tradition does the simulation hypothesis relate to in ancient Greek thought?
The simulation hypothesis relates to Plato’s ‘Allegory of the Cave’ and Descartes’ ‘Evil Demon’ concept, which question the nature of perceived reality.
Fill in the blank: Bostrom’s argument assumes that consciousness can be _____.
replicated computationally.
What is the ‘Butterfly Dream’ in Chinese philosophy?
The ‘Butterfly Dream’ is a philosophical scenario by Zhuangzi where he questions if he is a man dreaming he is a butterfly or a butterfly dreaming he is a man, illustrating doubts about reality.
What does the term ‘computationalism’ refer to?
Computationalism is the theory that cognition is a form of computation, suggesting conscious entities could exist in a simulation if the theory is valid.
What are two major scientific objections to the simulation hypothesis?
Two major objections are: 1) Practical physical limitations make universal simulation improbable, and 2) Computational constraints due to complexity make high-fidelity simulations difficult to achieve.
What experiment was proposed by physicists to test for a simulated universe?
Physicists proposed observing ultra-high-energy cosmic rays for anisotropies that could indicate a grid-like structure in space-time, as might be expected in a simulation.
Which philosopher argued that discovering we are in a simulation could end the simulation?
Philosopher Preston Greene suggested that discovering the truth might lead simulation operators to end the simulation.
According to Bostrom, how might simulated beings discern they are in a simulation?
Bostrom suggests they might notice glitches or imperfections, or even a hypothetical ‘pop-up’ revealing their simulated nature.
What does the ‘anthropic principle’ mean in the context of the simulation hypothesis?
It is the idea that if most conscious beings exist in simulations, it follows that a randomly chosen conscious being, like a human, is likely in a simulation.
Fill in the blank: The philosophical concept that questions the reality of perceived experiences through dreams or illusions is known as the _____ hypothesis.
skeptical.
