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The concept of the simulation hypothesis suggests that our universe is actually a highly advanced simulation created by an advanced civilization. Essentially, this means that our universe is a form of virtual reality, similar to a computer game, and we are integrated into this simulation.

What once sounded like pure science fiction has now found its way into scientific research. A study from Oxford University suggests that the probability of such a simulation existing is one in three. This study is based on the assumption that an advanced civilization could create a simulation in which the inhabitants wouldn't be able to distinguish the simulated world from reality.

How Simulations Work

The core idea here is that a highly advanced civilization would have the capability to create a virtual universe so intricately designed that the beings within it, including ourselves, would perceive it as authentically real. Such a simulation could be realized through a type of supercomputer with the capacity to generate and control millions of simulated worlds simultaneously.

Arguments For and Against the Possibility of Simulation

An argument for the simulation hypothesis is based on the rapid advancement of computer simulation technology. In recent decades, we’ve made tremendous progress in developing complex virtual worlds that are becoming increasingly realistic. If this technology continues to advance, it seems entirely plausible that such a simulation could be possible in the future.

Do you remember my 2012 article on the double-slit experiment? To put it briefly and simply, the experiment shows that particles change their behavior depending on whether they are observed or not. This strange interaction between observation and reality could be seen as a hint that our world operates similarly to a simulation, where only what’s being observed is “rendered.”

Here’s an infographic illustrating the double-slit experiment:

Since everything is presented through memes nowadays, here’s the meme edition of the double-slit experiment:

Sure, none of this is concrete evidence that we’re living in a simulation, and many questions remain, like those concerning quantum mechanics and particle behavior, which continue to challenge the credibility of the simulation hypothesis. But it’s not entirely out of the question that this theory could one day be confirmed.

Besides, even if the simulation hypothesis turns out to be true, it raises the question of whether the entities simulating us would even want us to find out. Or could it be that their project, in some sense, has failed? Revealing their existence might affect their intentions.

Closing Words

I am rather skeptical, yet still fascinated by the theory.

However, I believe that the possibility of a simulation as an explanation for the existence of the universe and life on Earth should not be entirely dismissed. From my perspective, it's more plausible that we live in a simulation than the universe being created by a magical divine creator.