The one-electron universe[1] was also a dreamy theory, but it inspired some groundbreaking ideas in quantum mechanics. I think the universe as a simulation is

The one-electron universe[1] was also a dreamy theory, but it inspired some groundbreaking ideas in quantum mechanics. I think the universe as a simulation is less interesting as it's really just taking the notion of materialism to its logical extent. But in fairness to it, it's now part of culture, so if it's causing us to think in ways we wouldn't be aware of, it's harder to see it influencing someone than if he's Feynman getting a sudden phone call from Wheeler. Many thought experiments can also be useful insights into nature of things. The idea of a Boltzmann brain[2], for instance, challenges your intuitions of infinity and thermodynamics. [1]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One-electron_universe https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One-electron_universe [2]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boltzmann_brain https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boltzmann_brain