use its super intelligence to persuade us to be more satisfied with the universe as it is.
Actually, I would consider this outcome pretty satisfactory. My life is (presumably) unimaginably good compared to that of a peasant from the 1400s but I’m only occasionally ecstatic with happiness. It’s not clear to me that a radical upgrade in my standard of living would change this...
Preferences and emotions are entirely distinct (in principle). The original post is talking about changing preferences (though “satisfied” does sound more like it’s about emotions), you’re talking about changing emotions. I think I’d go for a happiness upgrade as well, but (almost by definition) I don’t want my ‘real’ preferences (waves hands furiously) to change.
Actually, I would consider this outcome pretty satisfactory. My life is (presumably) unimaginably good compared to that of a peasant from the 1400s but I’m only occasionally ecstatic with happiness. It’s not clear to me that a radical upgrade in my standard of living would change this...
Preferences and emotions are entirely distinct (in principle). The original post is talking about changing preferences (though “satisfied” does sound more like it’s about emotions), you’re talking about changing emotions. I think I’d go for a happiness upgrade as well, but (almost by definition) I don’t want my ‘real’ preferences (waves hands furiously) to change.
You don’t mind if your preferences or beliefs change to make you happier with the current state of the universe? Then you’re in luck!