• What are universal explainers?

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    Universal explainers are a concept linked to the ability of humans (or intelligent agents) to comprehend and articulate explanations for phenomena across various domains, potentially including everything that is explainable. Scott Aaronson discusses the historical advancements in human capabilities, such as the invention of writing and the development of numerical systems, which have enabled humans to explain the world in ways no other animal can. Aaronson questions, however, whether humans are truly universal explainers, capable of understanding and explaining all phenomena. He reflects on David Deutsch's optimism about explaining capabilities, which extends to include extraterrestrial intelligences, suggesting a broader definition of "people" as universal explainers. Aaronson ultimately highlights that we have no concrete proof of phenomena that are inherently unexplainable, thus maintaining a tentative openness towards the potential of universal explanation 1.

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