Tell HN: If the universe can be simulated, it doesn't have to be

Imagine the universe and everything in it—including stars, planets, and every event that happens—can be described by mathematical equations. Now, if it's possible to input all the universe's rules into a giant cosmic computer and run a simulation, then everything that can happen in the universe, from the beginning of time to the end, could be predicted by the computer.

But here's the twist: if we can simulate the universe this way, it means that all possible outcomes and events are already defined by these mathematical rules. They exist in the realm of mathematics, whether or not we actually run the simulation. In other words, running the simulation doesn't "create" these events; it merely reveals what's already predetermined by the mathematical structure of the universe.

So, if the universe can be simulated, you don't actually need to run the simulation to make the universe real. Everything that happens is just the unfolding of mathematical possibilities that already "exist" in a way, independent of any simulation. This suggests that asking whether we are living in a simulation or not is irrelevant because our experiences and the universe's existence don't depend on the simulation being actively run by someone or something.