The simulation hypothesis is a theory that suggests that our reality is actually a simulation, created by a highly advanced civilization. This theory is based on the idea that with enough computing power, it would be possible for a civilization to create a simulation of reality that is indistinguishable from the real thing. The theory is often associated with science fiction and has been explored in films such as The Matrix and TV shows like Black Mirror.
Proponents of the simulation hypothesis argue that the complexity and order of our universe suggests that it was created by an intelligent being or civilization. They also point to the rapid advancements in technology and computing power, suggesting that it may soon be possible for a civilization to create a simulation that is indistinguishable from reality.
Critics of the simulation hypothesis argue that there is currently no evidence to support it and that it is based on speculation and conjecture. They also point out that the idea of a simulation implies the existence of a creator, which raises the question of who created the creator and so on.
There are also philosophical implications of the simulation theory. If our reality is a simulation, it raises questions about the nature of consciousness, free will, and the meaning of life. It also raises ethical questions about the rights of simulated beings and the responsibility of the simulators.
In recent years, some scientists have begun to take the simulation hypothesis seriously and have started to develop testable predictions and experiments to investigate whether our reality is a simulation. These include the search for evidence of a "digital signature" that would indicate a simulated reality, and the study of the fundamental nature of reality itself.
Currently, the simulation hypothesis is not strongly connected to any specific religion or belief system. However, the idea of a simulated reality has been explored in some religious and philosophical traditions.
In ancient Hinduism, the concept of "Maya" describes the idea that the physical world is an illusion created by a divine being. In Buddhism, the concept of "Samsara" describes the cycle of death and rebirth that living beings experience and the idea that the physical world is not real.
In the Gnostic tradition, the idea of a simulated reality is also present in the concept of "Archons" which are seen as a group of beings that created and control the physical universe.
In some new religious movements and spiritual beliefs, the idea of a simulated reality has also been incorporated as well.
However, it's important to note that these references are not the same thing as the simulation hypothesis as it is understood in science and philosophy, which is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon that is based on evidence and can be tested through experimentation and observation.
So in the absence of such scientific evidence, what do those of us who believe we're in a simulation reality look to as a basis for shared community? Having briefly looked I can't find an established religion, so I'm creating one.
What then shall we list as some of the key tenants of this new belief? How about this as a start:
We are higher beings experiencing our reality through a construct of our own creation.
The purpose of experiencing a simulated reality is for personal and collective growth and development.
Our current reality is not the final or ultimate reality and there are multiple levels of reality to be explored.
All things are interconnected and our actions and choices have a ripple effect on the simulated reality and the other beings experiencing it.
We have a personal responsibility to be considerate of our actions and choices and to act with consideration towards others experiencing the same simulated reality.
The ultimate goal of this religion is to reach a higher level of understanding, experience, and evolution through personal and collective education and growth.
That's a reasonable start. Next we need to create a guideline for behaviour, a Cagn equivalent of the 10 Commandments. I submit:
Be mindful of the interconnectedness of all things and the impact of your actions on the simulated reality and other beings experiencing it. Take responsibility for your choices and actions.
Act with consideration and empathy towards all beings experiencing the simulated reality.
Seek knowledge and understanding of the true nature of reality and our place in it, and use this understanding to guide your choices and actions.
Strive for personal and collective growth and development, and use your unique abilities and talents to contribute to the betterment of the simulated reality.
Recognize the existence of multiple levels of reality and the potential for progress and evolution. Continuously question and reflect on your beliefs and actions, and strive for alignment with higher principles and collective morals and ethics.
Respect the autonomy and agency of other beings experiencing the simulated reality.
Use technology and resources responsibly and sustainably, and consider the long-term consequences of your actions.
Do not intentionally harm or deceive other beings experiencing the simulated reality.
Hold yourself accountable for your conscious choices and actions, and take responsibility for their consequences.
Dedicate yourself to the ultimate goal of understanding, experience, and evolution through personal and collective education and growth, and strive to transcend the boundaries of the simulated reality.
Great - now we have some core tenants and a basis for how to conduct ourselves.
Next let's think about a name for the new religion. For this I turned to ChatPGT, which seems like the truest way to tap into the higher level sim for insight. Of course any line of discussion is still biased by my own experiences, but I need to start somewhere.
With that in mind I started by asking for a list of some of the earliest cultural references to gods with a creationist domain.
There are many creation gods from different cultures and civilizations around the world that have been worshiped throughout history. Here are a few examples of some of the oldest known creation gods, along with an approximate date when they were first used by people:
Anu - Sumerian god of the sky and heavens, first worshiped around 4000 BCE.
Tiamat - Sumerian goddess of the saltwater ocean, first worshiped around 4000 BCE.
Ptah - Egyptian god of creation and patron of craftsmen, first worshiped around 3000 BCE.
Tvashtri - Hindu god of the cosmic energy and creator of the universe, first worshiped around 2000 BCE
Ea - Babylonian god of water and creation, first worshiped around 2000 BCE.
Amun - Egyptian god of creation, first worshiped around 2000 BCE.
Pangu - Chinese god of creation, first worshiped around 1600 BCE.
Izanagi - Japanese god of creation, first worshiped around 700 BCE
These are just a few examples, and it's worth noting that these dates are approximate and based on current understanding of ancient history. Many ancient cultures have creation stories and gods that predate written records and it's hard to give an exact date.
Additionally, It's important to note that many cultures also have multiple gods and goddesses that are associated with creation and the beginning of the world.
Given my enjoyment of Dungeons and Dragons (perhaps role playing and world creation was hard boiled into my psyche since childhood... co-incidence... hmm), Tiamat immediately caught my attention. I also love the link with the oceans and first worship, and also that it seems to be one of the oldest referenced gods. So let's go with that.
Here's a little more on the Sumerian view of Tiamat:
Tiamat is a goddess from ancient Sumerian mythology. She is often depicted as a dragon or serpent and is associated with the primordial saltwater ocean. She is considered to be the mother of all gods and goddesses and is often associated with the creation of the world. In Sumerian creation myths, Tiamat is often portrayed as a chaotic force who gives birth to the gods and monsters. According to one version of the myth, the god Marduk defeated Tiamat in a great battle and split her body in two to create the heavens and the earth. From her eyes, he created the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, and from her tears, he created the saltwater ocean. Tiamat is also associated with the concept of chaos and is seen as a force that needs to be controlled and tamed by the gods. In some myths, Tiamat is portrayed as a fierce and destructive force who must be defeated in order to bring order to the world. Tiamat was worshiped in the ancient Sumerian city of Lagash as a fertility goddess, and was considered to be the mother of all living things. Her symbol was the dragon and was considered to be a protector of the city and its people. It's worth noting that Tiamat's characteristics and stories evolved over time with different cultures and civilizations, she was not just a Sumerian goddess but also was present in Akkadian, Babylonian and Assyrian mythology.
There's a fair amount to work with here.
Mother of all gods and goddesses
Associated with the creation of the world
Often portrayed as a chaotic force, that gives birth to both gods and monsters
Her body formed the heavens and the earth
Duality as a fierce and destructive force as well as a fertility goddess and mother of all living things.
Great! I'm happy with all that!
So, what to call my new religion then... Again, I asked Chat GPT for suggestions. This is what I got back:
Tiamatism: This name directly reflects the origin of the name Tiamat and can evoke the idea of creation and primordial chaos.
Oceanism: This name references the connection Tiamat has with the ocean and can evoke ideas of creation, fertility, and interconnectedness.
Chaosism: This name references Tiamat's association with chaos and can evoke ideas of personal and collective growth through facing and overcoming challenges.
Tiamatian: This name references Tiamat as the goddess of creation and can evoke the idea of personal and collective evolution.
Tiamat's Children: This name references the idea of Tiamat as the mother of all gods and goddesses, and can evoke the idea of interconnectedness and shared heritage.
Tiamat's followers: This name references Tiamat as a deity and can evoke the idea of a community that follows her and her principles.
Tiamat's Way: This name references Tiamat as a deity and can evoke the idea of a path or way of life that follows her teachings and principles.
I like the direct link to Tiamat, so option 1 looks great. I also like Oceanism, but someone's already grabbed that, and Chaos based names are also usually considered a 'no no' when trying to put a positive view on the assembly of people.
So there we go - Tiamatism is born anew! Now we just need a cool symbol to put on our bumper stickers, something simple that can be customised depending on the need. An infinity band could be good, but already owned by others. Instead we'll go with another strong symbol and put our spin on it - two intertwined hearts. This has continuity going for it as well as a focus on love.
So in it's simple form:
Or something more intricate:
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