The Obsession with Simulation Theory: Are We Even Real?

Are we living in a simulation? Explore the emotional and psychological roots of simulation theory obsession—and why more people are questioning the nature of reality.

😱 DARK, TABOO & DANGEROUS

7/18/20253 min read

The Glitch That Makes You Wonder

You think of someone—and they text you. You dream of a place—and see it on your feed the next day. You notice patterns, coincidences, and strange repetitions.

And then the thought creeps in:
“What if none of this is real?”

Welcome to the world of simulation theory obsession—a growing cultural fixation on the idea that our reality might be artificial, programmed, or controlled.

But is this just a philosophical curiosity? Or is it a deeper emotional response to a world that feels increasingly surreal?

What Is Simulation Theory, Really?

Simulation theory suggests that our universe might be an artificial construct—like a hyper-advanced video game or digital environment created by a higher intelligence.

Popularized by thinkers like Nick Bostrom, and echoed in pop culture through films like The Matrix, Inception, and Westworld, the theory proposes:

  • If it’s possible to simulate consciousness…

  • And if civilizations tend to create simulations…

  • Then it’s statistically likely we’re in one.

The Emotional Core: Why This Theory Resonates Now

Simulation theory isn’t just about physics or philosophy. It’s about how we feel in the modern world:

  • Disconnection: “Everything feels distant, filtered, unreal.”

  • Overstimulation: “There’s too much information to process—like a broken system.”

  • Powerlessness: “If this is a simulation, maybe someone else is in control.”

  • Existential anxiety: “What’s the point if none of this is real?”

In a world shaped by algorithms, avatars, and artificial intelligence, simulation theory feels less like science fiction—and more like emotional truth.

The Rise of “Glitch in the Matrix” Culture

Online communities are filled with stories of:

  • Déjà vu loops

  • Unexplainable coincidences

  • Time slips and memory gaps

  • NPC-like behavior in others

These aren’t just anecdotes. They’re modern myths—ways we try to make sense of a world that often feels too strange to be random.

“I don’t believe we’re in a simulation. But I also don’t not believe it.”
Khalid, 24, Reddit user

Real Stories: “I Can’t Unsee the Patterns”

“I started noticing numbers repeating everywhere—11:11, 333, 777. It felt like the universe was winking at me.”
Maya, 29, graphic designer

“I had a dream about a conversation. The next day, it happened word for word. I felt like I was watching a script.”
Jon, 21, student

These aren’t just coincidences. They’re emotional data points—moments that make people question the fabric of reality.

The Line Between Wonder and Obsession

Simulation theory becomes problematic when it:

  • Triggers anxiety or derealization

  • Leads to detachment from real life

  • Becomes a coping mechanism for trauma

  • Replaces critical thinking with magical thinking

Like any obsession, it’s not about the theory—it’s about the emotional need behind it.

Why This Obsession Is Actually About Meaning

At its core, simulation theory is a search for meaning:

  • If this is a simulation, is there a purpose?

  • If someone created this, do they care?

  • If reality is code, can we rewrite it?

These questions aren’t just philosophical. They’re spiritual. They reflect our deepest human need: to feel that our lives matter.

How to Engage With Simulation Theory Mindfully

You don’t have to stop wondering. But you can stay grounded.

✅ 1. Use It as a Thought Experiment, Not a Belief System

Let it expand your thinking—not shrink your reality.

✅ 2. Stay Connected to the Present

Even if it’s a simulation, your feelings are real. Your choices matter.

✅ 3. Balance Curiosity With Critical Thinking

Explore, but don’t fall into rabbit holes that disconnect you from life.

✅ 4. Talk About It

You’re not alone. Many people feel this way. Start a conversation.

Conclusion: Real or Not, You’re Here

Whether we’re in a simulation or not, one thing is certain: you’re experiencing this moment. Your thoughts, your emotions, your connections—they’re real to you.

And maybe that’s what matters most.

You don’t need to know the nature of reality to live a meaningful life. You just need to be present in it.

💡 Remember:
Take a moment to reflect: How does this relate to your own obsessions?
Not everything you obsess over needs a cure ... Not every fascination needs fixing. 
Some obsessions just need understood, Some just deserve to be seen.
🧭 This entry is just the beginning — Obsessionpedia is just getting started — and it's growing.  Stay tuned for updates and new features coming soon. 🔍 Keep exploring — discover more topics that speak to you. New posts added daily , every obsession has a story , Reflect on your own. 

Suggested Reading 

  • Explore the origins of simulation theory 

  • How existential obsession affects mental health 

  • Guide to navigating existential thoughts