Simulation theory is the notion that we’re living in The Matrix. Or at least one of an infinite multitude of Matrix sequels.

‘I think, therefore I am’ as posed by René Descartes in 1647 suggests the most we can know with certainty is that if we’re thinking, we exist. We might be a brain in a jar somewhere dreaming of writing this article for The Brag Dad, but I exist.

This video from the excellent Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell dives right into the thought experiment. They present five assumptions, which if true means we’re living in an episode of Rick and Morty:

  1. It is possible to simulate consciousness
  2. Technological progress will not stop any time soon
  3. Advanced civilizations don’t destroy themselves
  4. Super advanced civilizations want to run simulations
  5. If there are a lot of simulations, you are probably inside one

Yep, this episode. Cooolsies.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtgQskSb4QY

Get unlimited access to the coverage that shapes our culture.
to Rolling Stone magazine
to Rolling Stone magazine