Scenarios · 9 universes, and what it takes to run each
Each scenario is a full set of dial settings, with the computing it takes. Open one to see that total and how each of the four schools of ethics leans. Then load it into the sandbox and change it.
Beyond all existing hardwareThe MatrixPresent-day Earth with billions of fully computed minds, drawn in only where someone is looking.8.2 × 1031 FLOPSPossible todayBrain in a VatA real brain in base reality. Only its world is computed, and everyone else is scripted.8.2 × 1015 FLOPSPossible at national scaleSolipsismOne real mind. The world is only as detailed as that mind can test.1018 FLOPSBeyond all existing hardwareThe 2050 ServerEveryone on Earth, with only as many real minds as 2050’s computers can run.1.8 × 1024 FLOPSBeyond an Earth-mass computerLocal UniverseThe Milky Way at atomic resolution, from the Big Bang.7.0 × 1085 FLOPSBeyond an Earth-mass computerUniverse LiteThe observable universe at molecular resolution, with half of it left out.5.8 × 1091 FLOPSToo large to write as a numberFull QuantumThe observable universe as one wavefunction. The upper limit.off the scaleBeyond the Sun’s whole outputBaselineEarth atom by atom since 1900, as a starting point for changing one dial at a time.1.3 × 1068 FLOPSPossible at national scaleThe AfterlifeA world with no suffering, computed only when someone’s there.1018 FLOPS