Science & Cocktails invites all beings from planet Earth and outer space for an introspective talk about their very own existence. Are you living in a simulated world? David Chalmers, philosopher of mind, consciousness, and reality, author of the book “Reality+” will be taking the stage in this episode and make you wonder about the very essence of reality and your own existence. Just before Sitrekin will create a unique atmospheric, electronic-indie sound with a touch of melancholic pop, strong melodies and lots of sonic details. Afterwards, DJ Jens Rasmussen plays soul jazz, grooves and the sound of sunny cruises in the Foyer.

Could we be living in the matrix? Could we live a meaningful life in the metaverse? Is virtual reality genuine reality? Could an AI system be conscious? What is the nature of our reality?

Reality+ is the name that David Chalmers gave for the universe of virtual and nonvirtual worlds. You can think of Reality+ as physical reality combined with the metaverse of augmented and virtual realities, perhaps along with a multiverse of alternative realities, simulated and otherwise. The central idea of his new book is that virtual reality is genuine reality and that this applies both to full-scale simulated universes, such as the Matrix, and to the more realistic virtual worlds of the coming metaverse. Indeed, this sounds as puzzling as fascinating, and you will not be disappointed.

David Chalmers makes use of the concept of virtual worlds to introduce and address some of the oldest and deepest problems in philosophy. Is there a God? What is the relationship between mind and body? What is reality? How can we lead a good life? How can we build a just society? Thinking about virtual worlds illuminates all of these questions, and transforms some of them. Along the way, you’ll receive an introduction to many areas of philosophy.

Event held in English with the generous support of the Novo Nordisk Foundation.