The discussion delves into the philosophical question of whether simulating something is the same as actually realizing it. The speaker questions if simulating the brain mechanisms and functions of a conscious human would truly give rise to consciousness. The distinction between simulation and realization is highlighted, noting that while some tasks like playing chess may not be affected by this difference, it plays a critical role in understanding consciousness. The simulation hypothesis, proposing that we may be living in a computer simulation, is critiqued with emphasis on the assumption that consciousness is solely a matter of computation. The speaker argues that consciousness may be a property exclusive to living systems, not just a result of computation, countering the prevalent view in AI, machine learning, neuroscience, and philosophy that consciousness is purely computational.