What is simulation theory?

Answer

Occasionally, a philosopher or scientist may suggest that our reality is not truly “real.” While this theme is often found in science fiction and fantasy, some argue that it could be a valid concept in the real world. Their assertion—or at least, their inquiry—implies that all of reality might actually be a simulation, where what we perceive as “real” is artificial and just a fragment of a broader existence. This idea manifests in various forms but shares fundamental elements, collectively known as simulation theory. These assertions are heavily influenced by solipsism, which casts doubt on the reliability of our observations. Any hypothesis or theory proposing a simulation must address the inherent weaknesses of solipsism.

Scripture suggests that our earthly lives are merely a part of a grander whole, indicating the existence of a “real reality” beyond our daily encounters. The Bible teaches that our “reality” is intentionally created and designed. However, many proponents of “simulation theory” reject the notions of God, an afterlife, or other spiritual concepts. This parallels how some atheists use evidence supporting the Big Bang Theory to challenge biblical perspectives, despite historical opposition to concepts like a “beginning” within atheism.

Ultimately, theories proposing that reality is simulated are either inconsequential or align with the fundamental tenets of theism. These theories typically stem from either philosophical arguments or scientific observations.

Philosophically, arguments about reality as a simulation revolve around potential technological advancements. A prevalent viewpoint suggests that if technology could simulate reality, then it is probable that we currently exist within a simulation; if not, such technology is likely unattainable. This premise assumes that a civilization capable of creating simulations would likely do so, an

And the number of such simulations will likely become extremely large. This, in turn, would lead to a scenario where simulated minds far outnumber “real” minds, making any given mind— including our own— statistically more likely to be part of a simulation than “actual.”

Scientifically, observations of the universe suggest a certain “resolution” to space and time. Below that, it appears that there is no possible division. Quantum physics derives its name from the concept that components of the universe are not infinitely divisible— they are measured in fundamental, discrete quanta, which are the smallest possible “bits” of those things. Quanta somewhat correspond to the pixels on a computer screen or the binary language used in most programs. This approach to simulation theory raises the question of whether our perceived reality is simulated, similar to the way the pixels on a TV screen combine to “simulate” an actual scene.

By definition, those who perceive evidence of the “simulation” of reality are essentially arguing for a designer. This makes the simulation hypothesis, in a way, an argument for Intelligent Design, as it suggests that the very nature of the universe implies deliberate, intentional arrangement. Similarly, the simulation hypothesis would strongly support the possibility of miracles, as a simulation could be adjusted by whoever is in control of it.

The Bible directly informs us that our universe was created «In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. », (Genesis 1:1). It indicates that God thinks and functions in a way that is “above” our own «For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. », (Isaiah 55:9). Scripture makes it clear that God is not subject to the laws that govern the “natural” universe «And the LORD

D said unto Moses, “When thou goest to return into Egypt, see that thou do all those wonders before Pharaoh, which I have put in thine hand: but I will harden his heart, that he shall not let the people go.” (Exodus 4:21). Mankind, according to the Bible, has a destiny that extends beyond the reality we currently know, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” (Hebrews 9:27), and there is a “spiritual realm” somehow distinct from the realm we ordinarily perceive, “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” (1 Corinthians 2:14). Scripture also indicates that we are more than physical, “we are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8) and that there is something “more real” than what we see or experience on earth (Hebrews 9:11;Hebrews 9:24).

Ultimately, the claim that all of reality is a simulation is something that cannot be proved, at least not in philosophical or scientific terms. This is mostly due to the self-defeating nature of solipsism: the more sure we are that our experiences are false, the less we can trust those experiences—including the experiences that lead us to believe in solipsism!

Further, if we can interact with something “outside” our simulation, then both the “outside” and the simulation are part of the same “reality.” If we can’t interact with this “outside,” then it’s no different fromTo claim something as imaginary means we lack grounds to deem it real. Various versions of the simulation hypothesis suggest that human knowledge may be limited. The existence of something beyond our usual rules doesn’t render it unreal. Instead, such inquiries delve into spirituality. Essentially, they are supernatural ideas: they refer to something surpassing the natural world we know.

From a biblical perspective, the debate on reality as a simulation boils down to terminology. Arguing whether reality is “simulated” or “created” is akin to debating if clay was “formed” or “shaped.” Or if Pluto qualifies as a “planet.” Ultimately, both terms, simulated and created, suggest that the world we encounter was intentionally organized by a force beyond our reality. Christianity asserts the existence of a higher realm than our universe and that our world was deliberately arranged by God. Logically, any substantial indication of “simulation” in reality would demonstrate an intelligent creator (Psalm 19:1;Romans 1:18-20).