The Experience Machine
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
Suppose there is a machine that, when connected to your brain, can provide you with any perfect experience you desire (such as writing a masterpiece, becoming the richest person, being adored by millions). You would feel immense pleasure and not know you are in the machine. Would you be willing to stay connected to the machine for life? Most people would refuse. -
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
Pleasure is not the only goal. - This thought experiment refutes hedonism. It demonstrates that humans do not merely pursue 'feeling good' (Subjective Well-being), but also value 'reality' (Reality) and 'agency' (Agency). This explains
Anchor fast decisions
The thought experiment shows that most people reject a machine that only provides perfect experiences, indicating that humans do not only pursue subjective pleasure, but also care about reality (contact with the real world) and agency (causing results oneself). It refutes pure hedonism.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/2Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Experience_machineverified
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