Post by frank on Jul 19, 2016 0:28:34 GMT
1. Explain the virtual simulation theory of consciousness.
As explored in "Is The Universe An App?", consciousness can be argued to be "a virtual simulator" that has "evolved over eons of time to enable mammals with higher brain functions" and allow self reflection and memory management to find solutions to problems (107). The comparisons between the brain and a computer are oft made, both for the processing power and contemplation/consideration through simulation of events before they occur, but most importantly for their "memory". This memory is what allows simulation of situations, and fuels dream sequences during sleep. The brains imagination is as much a virtual simulator as a video game, in which we can try new things and attempt to predict or imagine their consequences, a trait lacking in organisms without a conscious, which we continue to explore and consider, yet currently assume to act on "animal instinct". If humans are just a type of animal, what prevents any other organism from having a similar consciousness? Or is it only possible due to the highly developed brain of human beings, and will that development happen in the remaining lifespan of the human species?
2. How does the brain trick us and for what benefit is it for our genetic survival?
"Is The Universe An App?" also explores the development of philosophy as an extension of consciousness, and why nature would give human beings a self awareness when the survival and progression of a species is usually dependent on unconscious "animal" instinct (Introduction p.2). This brain and its processes allow for the compression of an immense load of data to be streamed and processed, yet in it of itself tricks us through believing some are true when they have not yet been confirmed in anyway, causing anxiety and restless contemplation. This incredible ability of simulation is detrimental as well, as one can often be caught up in their own simulations and interpretations of events that may or may not happen that the actual end results are a surprise, possibly good after having imagined much much worse. The simulation theory of consciousness is a powerful phenomenon, and the endless ability of being able to recreate scenarios of life and the possible responses one could have with them is beneficial to survival, yet may lower the quality of life amidst that survival as well.
Diem-Lane, Andrea, and David Christopher Lane. Is The Universe An App? Walnut: MSAC Philosophy Group, 2014. Web. 13 July 2016.
Neuralsurfer. "Brain Burn: Consciousness as a Virtual Simulator." YouTube. YouTube, 25 Nov. 2008. Web. 13 July 2016.
As explored in "Is The Universe An App?", consciousness can be argued to be "a virtual simulator" that has "evolved over eons of time to enable mammals with higher brain functions" and allow self reflection and memory management to find solutions to problems (107). The comparisons between the brain and a computer are oft made, both for the processing power and contemplation/consideration through simulation of events before they occur, but most importantly for their "memory". This memory is what allows simulation of situations, and fuels dream sequences during sleep. The brains imagination is as much a virtual simulator as a video game, in which we can try new things and attempt to predict or imagine their consequences, a trait lacking in organisms without a conscious, which we continue to explore and consider, yet currently assume to act on "animal instinct". If humans are just a type of animal, what prevents any other organism from having a similar consciousness? Or is it only possible due to the highly developed brain of human beings, and will that development happen in the remaining lifespan of the human species?
2. How does the brain trick us and for what benefit is it for our genetic survival?
"Is The Universe An App?" also explores the development of philosophy as an extension of consciousness, and why nature would give human beings a self awareness when the survival and progression of a species is usually dependent on unconscious "animal" instinct (Introduction p.2). This brain and its processes allow for the compression of an immense load of data to be streamed and processed, yet in it of itself tricks us through believing some are true when they have not yet been confirmed in anyway, causing anxiety and restless contemplation. This incredible ability of simulation is detrimental as well, as one can often be caught up in their own simulations and interpretations of events that may or may not happen that the actual end results are a surprise, possibly good after having imagined much much worse. The simulation theory of consciousness is a powerful phenomenon, and the endless ability of being able to recreate scenarios of life and the possible responses one could have with them is beneficial to survival, yet may lower the quality of life amidst that survival as well.
Diem-Lane, Andrea, and David Christopher Lane. Is The Universe An App? Walnut: MSAC Philosophy Group, 2014. Web. 13 July 2016.
Neuralsurfer. "Brain Burn: Consciousness as a Virtual Simulator." YouTube. YouTube, 25 Nov. 2008. Web. 13 July 2016.