IMSIYUDT 10 – “he also seems very very very alien and very hard to understand, and might do unexpected things because of that”

Greg Egan's "Permutation City" delves into the complex implications of digital consciousness and immortality. The novel follows Paul Durham, who uploads his consciousness into a computer simulation, blurring the lines between reality and virtuality. Egan explores philosophical questions about identity, consciousness, and the nature of reality through intricate simulations and thought experiments. The narrative challenges readers to confront the potential consequences of advanced technology and its impact on human existence. The book's exploration of complex scientific concepts, such as the simulation of consciousness and the nature of time, makes it a challenging but rewarding read for science fiction enthusiasts. Ultimately, "Permutation City" leaves the reader pondering the very definition of self and the possibilities of existence beyond our current understanding.