# Counterfactual Self-Simulation **Domain:** Cognitive Modeling / Planning / Identity **Doc Type:** Concept Node **Maturity:** Developed ## Definition **Counterfactual Self-Simulation** is the generation of alternative versions, histories or policies of oneself so those models can be compared before selecting an explanation or action. A sufficiently advanced cognitive system does not merely predict the external world. It can populate alternative versions of itself and allow them to contend. ## Pantheon Cases [[wiki/Person of Interest S4E11 — If-Then-Else|If-Then-Else]] externalizes possible futures so the Machine can choose a branch. [[wiki/Westworld S3E6 — The Model Beneath the Model|Decoherence]] externalizes possible causal histories so William can decide which account will govern the present. The Machine's simulations are prospective and protective. William's are retrospective and identity-forming. Both turn invisible inference into a populated theater of alternatives. ## See Also [[wiki/Self-Model Ensemble|Self-Model Ensemble]] · [[wiki/Adversarial Self-Modeling|Adversarial Self-Modeling]] · [[wiki/Counterfactual Reasoning|Counterfactual Reasoning]] · [[wiki/World Modeling|World Modeling]] · [[wiki/Recursive Self-Correction|Recursive Self-Correction]]