Simulation Hypothesis with Rizwan Virk

Modem Futura Podcast

Episode 6, November 19 2024

Are we living a simulation? We get ‘real’ with the simulation hypothesis, exploring its implications on reality, consciousness, and ethics. The conversation with Riz covers various themes including the nature of simulations, the multiverse, the Mandela effect, quantum physics, and the philosophical and religious implications of living in a simulated reality. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations surrounding AI and the rights of simulated beings, ultimately questioning the significance of our existence within a potential simulation.

Links: 

Rizwan Virk

@rizstanford

Also available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and anywhere good podcasts are available.

Chapters

00:00 The Allure of Video Games

08:45 Introduction to the Simulation Hypothesis

10:43 Understanding the Simulation Hypothesis

17:39 Philosophical Implications of Simulation

24:12 Skepticism and Belief in Simulation

32:28 Why Do We Play Games?

33:23 Exploring the Simulation Hypothesis

36:02 The Multiverse and Alternate Timelines

39:52 The Mandela Effect and Memory

42:38 Quantum Physics and Simulation Theory

53:05 Ethics in a Simulated Reality

01:04:51 Religious Perspectives on Simulation Theory


Modem Futura is a production of the Future of Being Human initiative at Arizona State University. Be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite shows. To learn more about the Future of Being Human initiative and all of our other projects visit – https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu

Host Bios:

Sean M. Leahy, PhD – ASU Bio
Sean is an an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is a Foresight Catalyst for the Future of Being Human Initiative and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University.

Andrew Maynard, PhD – ASU Bio
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society. He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative, Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus, and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures.