Project summary

I will be creating a research-backed, interdisciplinary exploration of simulation theory, epistemology and AI: combining structured knowledge and public engagement, which I call Simulacrology.

Simulation theory is a widely discussed topic online, particularly on YouTube and in digital philosophy spaces. However, most discussions remain purely speculative, often lacking deeper engagement with epistemological, philosophical and scientific principles.

This project bridges the gap between philosophy, AI and computational science; blending the visibility and cultural relevance of simulation theory with the practicality of other fields.

The Purpose of this Project

My background is in Science Fiction—more precisely, Science Fiction Theatre—the literature of ideas that has shaped how we view not only the future, but the present too.

While Science Fiction provides the backdrop for stunning visual effects, it’s also a language for communicating our fears, desires and needs.

It has been integrated into university syllabuses worldwide—from Florida (US) to Liverpool (UK) to Beijing (China)—influencing how we discuss and imagine the world.

In the same way, Simulation Theory—Simulacrology as a whole—can serve a similar purpose.

Its roots span across Philosophy (think Maya, Plato’s Cave and Zhuangzi’s Butterfly Dream), Psychology, Theoretical Physics, Computation, Biology, and Neuroscience.

Yet it feels as though it hasn’t been condensed into a single, cohesive field—until now.

The history of simulation itself tells us how we view reality and its offshoots—virtual and digital realities, for example. It also deepens our understanding of the self, the other, and relational spaces.

What are this project's goals? How will you achieve them?

1. A GitBook Knowledge Hub (Structured Research Primer)

• A public-access, structured repository of simulation epistemology, AI governance and speculative computation.

• Includes annotated reading lists, primary sources, and core philosophical breakdowns.

• Three Major Sections:

  • The How – Philosophy & Epistemology (Perception, Knowledge, and Truth)

  • The What – Computation & Infodynamics (Information, Physics and Computation)

  • The Why – The Nature of Reality (Quantum Theories, Holography and Determinism)

2. A Discord Community (Public Engagement & Discussions)

• A discussion space for philosophers, AI researchers and speculative thinkers.

• Q&As, AMAs, and guest talks with experts in epistemology, AI and digital governance.

• Expanding EA engagement with interactive discussions and research collaborations.

3. A Weekly YouTube Video Series (Public Education)

• Expanding on GitBook content through engaging video essays.

• Covers both philosophical and computational topics in a way that is accessible yet rigorous.

• Example Topics:

  • The Holographic Principle & Simulation Theory – Finding the connection

  • Quantum Nonlocality: Is Reality more interconnected than we think?

  • Can Information Itself Be Reality? The "It From Bit" Hypothesis.

 My main priorities will include:

• Structuring the GitBook’s research sections.

• Producing 3-5 video essays as the first major public-facing materials.

• Launching and moderating the Discord community for discussions and live Q&A

• Reaching out to communities and researchers in the fields of Simulation Theory, Philosophy, Theoretical Physics, AI Governance and EA.

How will this funding be used?

GitBook Pro Subscription - $65/month x 12 months (annual rate) - 780

Marketing & Outreach - Social media engagement, targeted ads, Discord visibility - 300

Time Compensation - Supporting full-time work on research & community engagement - 2000

Total - $3080

Minimum funding - $2000 - this would allow for the Gitbook subscription alongside partial time compensation.

The goal would be $3100 - rounding up from the total shown above for simplicity.

Who is on your team? What's your track record on similar projects?

This project is primarily led by me, with plans to expand through community collaborations!

My Track Record

• Academic Background: I hold a PhD in Science Fiction Theatre; focusing on dramaturgy, simulation theory and worldbuilding.

• Research & Writing: I have published work on philosophy, AI and computational irreducibility.

• Previous Community-Building Experience: I have experience running spaces for philosophical discussion and interdisciplinary collaboration.

• Content Creation: I have a Substack where I write about epistemology, AI and speculative computation; making complex ideas more accessible: https://suzieexe.substack.com/

 Future Expansion: While I am currently leading the project, the Discord community and GitBook will serve as a foundation for a broader research network; inviting collaboration with philosophers, AI researchers and computational theorists.

What are the most likely causes and outcomes if this project fails?

• Limited Reach & Engagement: If the project struggles to gain traction, then it might not grow as expected.

• Time Constraints: Balancing consistent content creation, research, and community engagement would be challenging without sufficient support.

• Sustainability Issues: Without additional funding in the future, long-term growth could be limited.
  

  Despite these issues, the project would still be a solid base to work upon, with aims/plans to develop in the future. Research and structured discussions would continue on a smaller scale, with potential for future expansion, and could become part of a larger initiative in AI epistemology or speculative philosophy.

How much money have you raised in the last 12 months, and from where?

This is the first round of funding (so currently 0) - this is an entirely new initiative, but is designed to be scalable over time.