> > Of course, this could mean that all those simulations have life-forms that are/think they are real, and THEY could be running simulations of life. Thus creating a never-ending thingamabob exending in both directions.

This is what scientists and philosophers refer to as the ... uh ... the "never-ending thingamabob extending in both directions theory." Hrmph. I *know* this is a theory, because I've read it in countless short stories and seen it in films and TV series and science magazines. OK, just what the heck is it called?

There was a really good story based on this idea which I remember reading at school. I have the idea it was an oldish story, perhaps nineteenth century or early twentieth? Or maybe not. It was about a missionary who went nuts from thinking too much about how the specks in his opal ring might really be planets whose life forms were worshipping him as God.

Brunnen-"actually, I like that name for the theory"G