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Sunday, April 4, 2021
CONTEXT: Estimating the Probability We Are Living in a Computer Simulation
An interesting paper in the Proceedings of the Royal Society A, “Probability and consequences of living inside a computer simulation” provides a Drake equation-like framework for estimating the probability we are living in a simulation.https://t.co/V5UuOZ4LdB
— John Walker (@Fourmilab) April 4, 2021
Abstract:
It is shown that under reasonable assumptions a Drake-style equation can be obtained for the probability that our universe is the result of a deliberate simulation. Evaluating loose bounds for certain terms in the equation shows that the probability is unlikely to be as high as previously reported in the literature, especially in a scenario where the simulations are recursive. Furthermore, we investigate the possibility of eavesdropping from the outside of such a simulation and introduce a general attack that can circumvent attempts at using quantum cryptography inside the simulation, even if the quantum properties of the simulation are genuine.
The authors do note, however, that one potential solution to the Fermi paradox might be that we are in a simulation and the absence of aliens is due to the simulators using a variable level of complexity to reduce the computing power required. If the simulation is confined to Earth, there would be no reason to include intelligent aliens from other planets. Here is a PDF version of the paper.
Posted at April 4, 2021 10:46