Healthcare researcher Dr Orson Wedgwood has sparked controversy by claiming that hell is real and that humanity is trapped inside a simulated reality akin to the film The Matrix. According to Wedgwood, the world effectively ended in 2012, and we are now living in an apocalyptic simulation designed by God to test human souls.
Near-Death Experiences as Glimpses of Hell
Dr Wedgwood, a devout Christian, argues that near-death experiences (NDEs) often feature common elements such as foul smells, demonic figures, and violent imagery. He contends these are not hallucinations but genuine encounters with a hellish realm within the simulation. He told the Daily Mail: "Our consciousness, how we behave, and the experiences we have are real, but the rest is not."
The theory links NDEs to simulation theory, which posits that reality is a computer-generated artificial environment—a concept championed by figures like Elon Musk. Wedgwood believes the simulation serves as a moral testing ground: "The simulation is designed to sort us into those who will be with God after the simulation is over versus those who won’t, all in a safe environment where we can’t do any damage."
Biblical Alignment and Rescue from Hell
Wedgwood asserts that his theory aligns with the Bible and simulation theory. He claims that individuals can be "rescued" from hellish NDEs by calling out to God. He cites the case of Ian McCormack, a New Zealand surfer who, after being stung by a jellyfish in 1982, said he experienced hell before being saved.
In a new book, Wedgwood explores negative NDEs, including a 2019 account from a woman who described monstrous beings, furtive creatures, and overwhelming pain. He claims such experiences make people acutely aware they are in hell.
Scientific and Professional Skepticism
Wedgwood acknowledges that many colleagues privately agree that science cannot explain the origin of the universe, life, or consciousness. He added: "Many colleagues I've worked with over the years will agree – perhaps more privately than publicly – that they cannot provide explanations... A lot of them now are adopting this simulation theory that we're living in a simulation, and this is like serious PhDs."
The theory remains highly controversial, with no empirical evidence supporting the claim that reality is a simulation or that hell exists as described. Critics argue that NDEs are better explained by neurological or psychological phenomena.
