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Parent Category: Upper-Intermediate News Lessons

Category: Science and Technology

Written by Chris Cotter

It may sound very strange, but quite a few important physicists and philosophers have suggested that all people and things in our universe are a computer simulation. In other words, although seemingly far-fetched, nothing and no one is real. We are simply computer code in a virtual reality.

The legitimate theory suggests that an advanced civilization is running computer simulations. Perhaps our future descendants thousands of years from now want to gain insight into 21st century humans, for example. However, instead of research, it's also possible that these beings are running the computer simulation for enjoyment, such as when we run video games and virtual worlds for our entertainment. And with access to enormous computing power, such would be possible.

Of course, not everyone agrees. Thinking that we are unique and interesting seems exceedinglyself-centered. These skeptics think the following: Humankind really is not terribly special.

However, some tech billionaires have begun to fund research. They want to confirm whether humankind does indeed live in a computer, even if the evidence will prove difficult to find. And in fact, additional money is being thrown at scientists to find a way to free humankind from the simulation.

Whatever the truth, if we are merely computer simulations on a future descendant's computer, let's hope that the program doesn't crash or the people watching don't grow bored and switch us off.