A recent study from UBC Okanagan has challenged the popular notion of living in a computer simulation, often depicted in science fiction. The research asserts that not only is the simulation theory unlikely, but it is mathematically impossible.
Led by Dr. Mir Faizal, an adjunct professor at UBCO”s Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science, the research team, which includes Dr. Lawrence M. Krauss, Dr. Arshid Shabir, and Dr. Francesco Marino, concluded that the fundamental nature of reality operates in a manner beyond the scope of computational capabilities.
The findings were published in the Journal of Holography Applications in Physics, revealing insights that extend further than the idea that we are not living in a simulated world like “The Matrix.” According to UBCO, the research demonstrates that the universe is based on a type of understanding that transcends any algorithmic interpretation.
“It has been suggested that the universe could be simulated. If such a simulation were achievable, it might lead to the emergence of life that could, in turn, create its own simulation,” Dr. Faizal explained. “This recursive nature raises the question of whether our universe is the original one or merely a simulation within another simulation.”
Dr. Faizal noted that this concept was previously considered beyond scientific scrutiny, but their recent work has shown it can indeed be explored scientifically.
With advancements in quantum mechanics, UBCO states that our understanding of reality has drastically changed. The contemporary theory of quantum gravity suggests that even fundamental concepts like space and time are not foundational; instead, they emerge from a deeper layer characterized by pure information.
The research team demonstrated that this information-based foundation cannot adequately represent reality through computation alone. To illustrate, UBCO likens a computer”s operation to following a recipe step by step, regardless of the complexity involved.
However, UBCO points out that some truths are only accessible through a non-algorithmic comprehension—insight that does not derive from a sequence of logical steps. Dr. Faizal emphasized that their findings indicate it is impossible to encapsulate all aspects of physical reality using a computational theory of quantum gravity.
“Thus, no physically complete and consistent theory of everything can emerge solely from computation,” he elaborated. “It necessitates a non-algorithmic understanding, which is more fundamental than the computational principles of quantum gravity and, consequently, more fundamental than spacetime itself.”
Dr. Krauss remarked on the significant implications of the research, stating, “The fundamental laws of physics cannot be constrained within the bounds of space and time, as they are what generate them. While there has been hope that a comprehensive theory could eventually describe all physical phenomena through computations based on these laws, our findings demonstrate this is not achievable. A complete and coherent portrayal of reality requires an understanding that transcends algorithmic processes.”
Dr. Faizal concluded that the research marks a major scientific milestone, asserting, “All simulations are inherently algorithmic; they must adhere to programmed rules. Given that the essential level of reality rests on non-algorithmic understanding, the universe cannot be a simulation, nor could it ever be.”
For further details on the study, you can visit the UBCO website.
