Could we all be living in a computer simulation? Can we be sure we are not?

Question

Could we all be living in a computer simulation? Can we be sure we are not?

Answer 1

See the link below for a good discussion.

It really doesn't matter if we're in a simulation or not. It needn't make any difference to the way we live our life.

Answer 2

Yes.

No.

Answer 3

Actually, this type of question was asked long before "The Matrix": If you read Plato's 'Republic' or even more-so Rene Descartes 'Discourse on method and Meditations on First-Philosophy', they ask the very same questions, substracting the 'computer-simulation' for another form of mass-unknown-deception.

In fact, here is the original Skeptical-Argument, which is what the Matrix is supposed to be, a skeptical-scenario.

Cartestian skeptical argument:

1. It is possible that right now I am being cleverly deceived by an evil-genius.

2. If is it possible that I am being deceived by an evil-genius, then I don't know that I'm standing here.

Hence,

C. I don't know I'm standing here.

OR: the Matrix-Cartesian Skeptical Argument

1. It is possible that I'm in a Matrix like situation.

2. If premise (1) is true, then I don't know that I am typing on a computer.

Thus,

C. I don't know that I'm typing on a computer.

Both arguments are valid (meaning IF all the premises are true, then the conclusion MUST be true). Most hold that premise (1) is true, and the entailment-premise in (2) is virtually undeniable - if you are in a matrix like situation, and you don't know that your not, then this is clearly incompatible with your knowing that you are standing here, or typing, or eating, or any thing whatever.

See this website for better understanding, as it seems noncredible prima-facie, but once it the argument is fully understood, it is hard to refute: http://setis.library.usyd.edu.au/stanfor...

or: http://setis.library.usyd.edu.au/stanfor...

Answer 4

Just take look at human nature itself and how complex we are, now can see It's enough for you to not even question the fact that, oh maybe everyone is living in a fantasy computer simulation. Please grow up...

Answer 5

another matrix fan

Answer 6

Hollywood...I mean ,"The Matrix has you..."

No, we could not.

Yes, we can be sure.

Be well and please, be wise.

Answer 7

This was a theory in the sixties which was dismissed by many,this theory has now been revived;makes you think??

Answer 8

Can't be bothered to answer. After all, you're only a figment of my imagination.

Answer 9

Sorta yeah, the computer is your brain, the simulation is your perceptions.

Answer 10

computer says no!

Answer 11

No, but by consensus you almost certainly are.

Answer 12

Once when I was a kid I actually unplugged the universal cord and nothing happened.  I did it just to see...

**************************************...

There must be a whole new generation pulling the cord.  I am convinced that that is what is behind all of y/a coffee breaks.

Answer 13

It's virtually untestable.  We would need an input from an outside frame of reference, which by definition would be impossible.

Answer 14

You are, I'm not. The programmers told me so it must be so.

This question gets lamer and lamer every time I answer it.

Maybe start asking if we've been to Middle Earth, since Matrix world has become so cliche.

Answer 15

I have always thought that pixels are the ultimate building blocks of the universe. I'm glad there's another nutjob out there to back me up.

Answer 16

had the matrix not been made no-body would even care to ask this question...

same as if you've never heard of, seen or even know anything about something youve no reason to question, fear, like, or have anything to do with that thing... that includes believing it when told about it too...

h**l why not makes it more interesting i guess...

Answer 17

Pinch yourself....a small 2 year old child has more computing power than all the world computers combined.

Answer 18

No we can't be sure... We don't even know what gravity actually is... it's all "best guess" and even then that's all relative.  

Answer 19

Yes we could. Howvever if that is the case then your simulated life is your actual life and should be treated as such. I don't thing there is any way to be sure that we aren't such a situation.

(Should take a look at the "13th Floor" film when you have the time. It's a variation on the Matrix style theme. A simulation within a simulation!)

Answer 20

OMG, I always wonder that

Answer 21

Is this not the same question as is there a God?

Answer 22

does it really matter?

Answer 23

yes, and we can't be sure.

Answer 24

"There is no spoon"