Originally posted by Phosphoros
that when it comes down to it we can be no better than a computer program, evolving mindlessly in an enviroment based solely on preprogrammed responses.
Yeah, it's an interesting idea there. I do find non-lucid dreams disturbing on some fronts, but not so much on the one you're covering. That one, is the age old epistemological problem of free will. Just as NL dreams show, it's a conceptual possibility that none of us exercise free will, in that we're existing in a world in which all external to ourselves are products of our mind. It also brings up that problem you speak of that we're as simple as complex computer constructs, responding with automation - the zombie theorie, i think it's called. It's interesting, but frustrating because it seems to be impossible to argue against. Solipsism (the uncertainty of anyone/thing existing beyond our own mind) is logically undisprovable, which i spose makes it worth exploring. Though most people don't worry about this, as it's commonly dismissed as sophomoric - so unanswerable we're healthier to ignore it for now.

And at least you must all admit nightmares disturb you a little - the fear and panick elicited by imagination. Such an irrational product of a serious emotion is somewhat disturbing. I was surprised to see so many of you dismissing this question.