The Evil Demon Hypothesis was put forth by the reknowned French mathematician and philosopher, Rene Descartes. To me, it marks the beginning of the popularity of conspiracy theories that are so very pervasive these days. The Evil Demon Hypothesis Postualtes the idea of an evil demon presiding over the universe. This demon is sadistic and loves manipulating this universe for his own amusement. We then, are his toys. Kids play with lego and hotwheels, he plays with stars, galaxies and human beings. Makes a perfect conspiracy theory, doesn't it?
Looking deeper, this hypothesis is another manifestation of the very human need to imagine a certain someone "in charge" of everything. The evil demon can be viewed as a sadistic and imperfect version of the concept of God, although the evil demon didn't necessarily create the universe. We can't seem to come up with a hypothesis that claims that the universe and everything in it is because of an interplay between energies and equilibria. There has to be, someone good or bad at the helm guiding our destinies- be it the three fates spinning their thread or the evil demon causing you to stub your toe at the door for his personal amusement.
This hypothesis is well used by the Wachowski brothers in the Matrix Trilogy. Here the architect represents the evil demon who maniplates the matrix and everything in it and outside of it for his own gain and amusement. While the movies were certainly enjoyable, i think that it would be refreshing tp believe that nothing conspires against our existence. Although admitedly it would be a good excuse to give your teacher or boss to explain your unfinished work!
No comments:
Post a Comment