Simulation Theory: Is Reality a Video Game?
Elon Musk believes there is a 'one in a billion' chance we are in base reality. Philosophers and physicists are starting to agree. Are we just NPCs in a cosmic server?
1. Introduction: The Pixelated Universe
Video games have gone from Pong to Unreal Engine 5 in 50 years. If we extrapolate this speed for another 1,000 years, simulations will be indistinguishable from reality. If it is possible to create a seamless simulation, an advanced civilization will likely create billions of them. Therefore, statistically, it is more likely we are in one of the billions of simulations than in the one "real" world. This is Nick Bostrom's Simulation Argument.
2. Glitches in the Rendering
Physicists look for "clues" that this is code.
- Planck Length: Space is not continuous. It is pixelated. There is a smallest possible unit of length (resolution limit).
- Speed of Light: Why is there a maximum speed limit? Is it the rendering speed of the processor?
- Observer Effect: The world only renders when observed (Optimization/Occlusion Culling).
3. The NPC Problem
If this is a simulation, are we "Player Characters" with souls/consciousness, or "Non-Player Characters" (NPCs) running a script? The creepy feeling of Solipsism: "Am I the only real person here?" But if consciousness is fundamental, maybe the Simulation needs us to observe it to keep running.
4. Does It Matter?
Critics ask: "So what? Real or simulated, pain still hurts. Love still feels good." But it changes one thing: Meaning. If this is a simulation, it implies a Creator (The Programmer). It implies a Purpose (Why was the simulation run? A test? A game? History lesson?). Simulation Theory is just Religion for Atheists. (God = Admin).
5. Conclusion: Play Good
If life is a game, how do you win? You don't win by hoarding gold coins (money); you lose those when you log out. You win by leveling up your character (Growth) and exploring the map (Experience). Don't take the level too seriously. It's just a render. Have fun.