This universe is so ancient, that chances are, out there within the void, many other civilizations have already long ago evolved and advanced so far beyond us, that they were able to create ultra complex and elaborate reality simulations and so we are most likely living within one of them now.,(reply>), @Michael Bruns It's a belief on the part of some scientists and philosophers that life, even intelligent life (anywhere in the universe), will necessarily fail to reach the point of things like interplanetary migration.  Part of the thesis for most is that technologically advanced civilizations will necessarily destroy themselves before reaching yet to be observed milestones.  Before becoming "posthuman" is frequently used in discussing it regarding our little corner of the universe.  As a jump off point, I recommend Nick Bostrom's paper: "WHERE ARE THEY?  WHY I HOPE THE SEARCH FOR EXTRATERRESTRIAL LIFE FINDS NOTHING."  (I tried to link to it," but that negated my post.)  <br><br>By the way", just to be clear, I agree with your original comment.  I was just adding on to possibilities.  And Bostrom has written a lot about that too -- including his famous (infamous?) paper:  "ARE WE LIVING IN A SIMULATION?"  That idea, the simulation trilemma discussed in this segment, intrigues me as well.,(reply>), @Dash X what's that about?,(reply>), Unless you accept the idea of the “great filter,” which increasingly intrigues me.