Is the whole universe just a simulation?

Here’s why some people believe we’re living in a computer simulation of reality – like a giant video game in which we’re all the characters.

By: Zeb Rocklin, Georgia Institute of Technology, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 2, 2026

Words: 1,028

Last Updated: 1 month, 2 weeks ago

By Zeb Rocklin, Georgia Institute of Technology

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com.

Is the whole universe just a simulation? – Moumita B., age 13, Dhaka, Bangladesh

How do you know anything is real? Some things you can see directly, like your fingers. Other things, like your chin, you need a mirror …

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