Post by Week 7 and 8 on Oct 26, 2015 3:31:49 GMT
1. Explain the virtual simulation theory of consciousness.
The virtual simulation theory of consciousness is the process in which a neural network helps us strategize better outcomes to any situation due to experiences. It also helps us understand that the brain is a virtual simulator during the waking state and dream state, because in dreams everything is hallucinated by us, even without us knowing why or how it is being done. There is no consciousness, just the brain itself simulating a situation to act accordingly. As per the example of the student that had schizophrenia, the student was unable to rehearse or play out a scenario because he was unable to rid negative notions from his mind. He would even get sick at the thought of a negative notion once it entered his mind. The fact that this fantasy stuck in his mind, allowed him to understand that his obsessive behavior was actually fueling his brain simulation. He was unable to differentiate reality from fantasy. The fact that he understood that his brain was simulating his past experiences, allowed him to accept that his brain would continue to simulate the same outcomes.
2. How does the brain trick us and for what benefit is it for our genetic survival?
The brain can play many tricks on us. As per the Indian Philosophy, Maya which basically means, “not that”. Since everything arrives in time, not on time, our brain has tricked us to believe otherwise. Even the light from the sun takes 8 minutes to reach us. We are duped into believing the sun is setting and the sky is blue. As per the example of the Autotopia ride at Disneyland, it gives children the illusion that they are steering the car wheel, but in reality it is being controlled by the metal track. As per the book, “Is the Universe an App?, “Deception is part and parcel of nature and is an intrinsic and necessary feature of human existence.” Why? Because we have to be clever and deceive others when in need to survive. As per the quote, “ Our brains were not designed to understand the universe as it is, but rather to eat