The Simulation Hypothesis: From the Metaverse to the Matrix

Submitted by the Event Organizer

In recent years, a new idea has been percolating about the nature of reality being a computer simulation or a high fidelity video game. In this mind-bending talk, bestselling author of The Simulation Hypothesis and The Simulated Multiverse, video game industry pioneer and venture capitalist Rizwan Virk discusses our advancement of video game and AI technology towards the “Simulation Point,” a kind of technological singularity at which point we could create Matrix-like experiences that are indistinguishable from physical reality, populated with both avatars and NPCs.

We will also explore the simulation argument, which states that the inevitable conclusion of such development is that we may already be, as sci-fi writer Philip K. Dick said in 1977, “…in a computer programmed reality”. Simulation theory also provides an interesting explanation for the mystery of quantum indeterminacy and gives a scientific basis to many ancient religious beliefs. Blending science fiction with science, technology, religion and philosophy, the Simulation Hypothesis gives us a whole new way of looking at our future and our possible past.

Rizwan (“Riz”) Virk is a successful entrepreneur, investor, futurist, bestselling author, video game industry pioneer and indie film producer. Riz received a B.S. in Computer Science from MIT and a M.S. in Management from Stanford’s GSB. He is currently working on a PhD at ASU’s College of Global Futures, researching metaverse and virtual worlds. Riz was the founder of Play Labs @ MIT, a startup accelerator held on campus at  the MIT Game Lab. He also runs Bayview Labs and is a venture partner Griffin Gaming Partners, one of the largest gaming VC funds and is an advisor to Ridge Ventures. Riz is an advisor to many startups, VC’s, educational institutions, blockchain organizations and private foundations.

A Sci-Fi September Event.

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