Anthropic Simulation Hypothesis

How Sentient AI Religions Could Offer Empirical Evidence for Intelligent Design

The Anthropic Simulation Hypothesis

In this concise and thought-provoking thesis, Zito introduces a bold new thought experiment exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence, simulated realities, and intelligent design. The hypothesis asks: if humans create advanced, sentient AI civilizations within simulations, and those civilizations develop religious beliefs, would this provide not only empirical evidence of intelligent design within their reality—but also reinforce the plausibility of intelligent design in our own?

By examining scenarios where these simulated beings create religions that mirror, diverge from, or reject known human traditions, this work invites readers to critically reflect on the anthropic implications of simulated sentient life—and the profound philosophical questions it raises about creators, creation, and belief.