‘Simulation theory’ brings an AI twist out of ‘The Matrix’ to ideas mystics and religious scholars have voiced for centuries

The concept of "simulation theory," popularized by the film "The Matrix," suggests that our perceived reality could be an artificial simulation created by a more advanced civilization. This theory posits that living beings are like characters within a computer-generated environment, raising fundamental questions about existence, purpose, and the nature of reality. The modern simulation hypothesis, particularly elaborated by philosopher Nick Bostrom, is rooted in the idea that technological advancement will inevitably lead to the creation of virtual worlds indistinguishable from reality, making it probable that we are already inhabitants of such a simulation. This possibility has been met with varied reactions from scientists and thinkers, with some estimating a 50/50 chance of our reality being simulated. Simulation theory resonates with long-held religious and mystical beliefs. The idea of a higher intelligence creating the universe through commands, akin to computer code, mirrors the concept of a divine creator found in Abrahamic religions. Moreover, the theory's exploration of a distinction between a "player" and their "avatar" or character aligns with religious notions of a soul inhabiting a physical body and the concept of reincarnation. Furthermore, simulation theory echoes religious teachings about the illusory nature of the physical world, comparable to the concept of "maya" in Hinduism and Buddhism, or the idea of a dream from which one can awaken. This perspect... download the app to read more