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What must the PC view say about the teleportation duplication case that arises? Why is this incoherent?

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Final answer:

The PC view must address the philosophical and physical issues around consciousness and identity that arise from teleportation duplication, which are similar to those in the twin paradox resolved by general relativity. The duplication case is seen as incoherent due to conflicts with conservation of energy and Ockam's Razor, and because a comprehensive understanding of metaphysical laws governing non-physical entities like the mind is lacking.

Step-by-step explanation:

The PC (physical consciousness) view would need to address the teleportation duplication case by discussing the implications of duplicating a person's consciousness, which involves deep philosophical and physical questions about identity and the nature of consciousness. The crux of the dilemma is whether the consciousness of the teleported individual remains the same or if a new, separate consciousness is created at the destination. This situation is often deemed incoherent because it raises paradoxes similar to those discussed in the twin paradox of space-time.

Regarding the twin paradox, the paradox arises from the special theory of relativity, which predicts time dilation effects for a twin traveling at relativistic speeds compared to the twin who stays on Earth. However, this is not actually a paradox as the situations of the two twins are not symmetrical; the traveling twin experiences acceleration, which brings general relativity into the picture, thereby resolving the paradox.

The PC view would likely find teleportation duplication incoherent due to contradictions with physical laws, such as conservation of energy, and principles such as Ockam’s Razor, which suggests the simplest explanation without unnecessary entities is preferable. Additionally, if non-physical entities like the mind or consciousness exist, they could potentially follow metaphysical laws that are not yet understood, making it difficult to reconcile with the current understanding of physical reality.

User Bruce Payette
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