Freak Observers and the Simulation Argument. (26th June 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Crawford, Lyle
• Is Part Of: Ratio. Volume 26:Number 3(2013:Sep.)
• Page Start: 250
• Page End: 264
• Publication Date: 2013-06-26
• Subjects: Philosophy -- Periodicals; Analysis (Philosophy) -- Periodicals; 105
• DOI: 10.1111/rati.12009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0034-0006

Abstract

Abstract: The simulation hypothesis claims that the whole observable universe, including us, is a computer simulation implemented by technologically advanced beings for an unknown purpose. The simulation argument (as I reconstruct it) is an argument for this hypothesis with moderately plausible premises. I develop two lines of objection to the simulation argument. The first takes the form of a structurally similar argument for a conflicting conclusion, the claim that I am a so‐called freak observer, formed spontaneously in a quantum or thermodynamic fluctuation rather than through ordinary processes of evolution and growth. The second rejects the basic line of reasoning of both arguments: the sort of evidence they cite is not capable of supporting either the claim that I am a simulant or the claim that I am a freak observer. The evidence that simulants or freak observers exist is not a reason to think that I am one of them.