Subscribe now

Letter: Will artificial aliens show empathy?

Published 10 June 2015

From Chris Wilkins

Why would we want sentient life forms to inhabit a computer in a simulated reality (2 May, p 39)? One reason would be to find out whether it is possible for other evolved life forms to be genuinely altruistic. This would inform us of the stance to be taken if we encountered alien life.
Welwyn, Hertfordshire, UK

Issue no. 3025 published 13 June 2015

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up
Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop