"How do we discover the individual laws of Physics, and what is their nature? It should be remarked, to begin with, that we have no right to assume that any physical law exists, or if they have existed up to now, that they will continue to exist in a similar manner in the future. It is perfectly conceivable that one fine day Nature should cause an unexpected event to occur which would baffle us all; and if this were to happen we would be powerless to make any objection, even if the result would be that, in spite of our endeavors, we should fail to introduce order into the resulting confusion. In such an event, the only course open to science would be to declare itself bankrupt. For this reason, science is compelled to begin by the general assumption that a general rule of law dominates throughout Nature. " German Physicist, Nobel Laureate Max Planck
A brand new debate on the topic crossed my feed today. With a few key takeaways and insights.
Though I think the much under explored aspect - touched upon briefly here - is consciousnesness. Particularly when it comes to looking for proofs to validate or invalidate the hypothesis. One of the possible red-flags for this could be Deja vu and similar sensations.
On the other hand is anything we can't explain merely an aspect of the limits of our intellect?
Possibly a limit to consciousness as well?
The current leading theory (on consciousnessness) being that it exists as a primary; that it's greater than both our intellect and any ability we may have to perceive, while at the same time being the vehicle through which we have perceptions in the first place. A paradox, or possibly just an enigma we can't yet - or ever solve.
Add to this the possible complexity of any consciousness, system or actor in a higher state of being which could create this universe. Whether that be an individual actor or a manifestion from the laws as consciousness itself, or perhaps even a quality that transcends laws... and it all gets more confounding and vastly more interesting.
Is becoming aware of the parameters of this existence, the so-called simulation similar to being awake in the dream? What would that mean for the rules that govern our action. Can they be bent, where does meditation and ancient eastern practices come into this? The mystical, paranormal, etc.
If you're still with me, the video and subsequent article posted below go into much greater depth on this topic.
I'd like to know what fellow Steemians think. Are we living in some sort of simulation? How could we possibly know or not know? What would be the best test for this? Also, would it change (positively or negatively) the way you view your existence? And/Or would it change what you consider a simulation? Any theological, philosophical or another observations, ideas and theories are welcome.
Lastly, a friend once posed the brilliant question:
"If everything's an illusion, what's an illusion?" and one more from Planck:
"I regard consciousness as fundamental. I regard matter as derivative from consciousness. We cannot get behind consciousness. Everything that we talk about, everything that we regard as existing, postulates consciousness."
Here's the debate at The 2016 Isaac Asimov Memorial
One perspective and possible takeaway:
https://is.gd/pHTyzv
Tangentially related:
https://www.mpg.de/5925490/meta-consciousness-brain