Solvent comments on On accepting an argument if you have limited computational power. - Less Wrong

22 Post author: Dmytry 11 January 2012 05:07PM

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Comment author: shminux 11 January 2012 05:56:05PM 0 points [-]

One approach is to apply the scientific method: every model must have testable predictions. For the case of Pascal's mugging, you can ask the mugger to demonstrate their "magic powers from outside the Matrix" in a benign but convincing way ("Please show me a Turing machine that simulates an amoeba"). If they refuse or are unable to, you move on.

Comment author: Solvent 12 January 2012 07:54:03AM 1 point [-]

Well, that sometimes makes it more awkward to design the thought experiment. See the Least Convenient Possible World.

On the one hand, I have to give my friend credit: his answer is biologically accurate, and beyond a doubt the technically correct answer to the question I asked. On the other hand, I don't have to give him very much credit: he completely missed the point and lost a valuable effort to examine the nature of morality.

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