There are a couple of different formulations of the Basilisk I've heard: I agree with you that the version that says the AI will create a simulation of you to t

There are a couple of different formulations of the Basilisk I've heard: I agree with you that the version that says the AI will create a simulation of you to torture for eternity makes no sense as an actual incentive for you to help bring it into being. However, the version that says AGI—as in, the Basilisk—will be created within our lifetimes proposes that it will punish the actual person. All that said, I will reiterate that I think the whole thing is utter nonsense.