On the one hand, I value that certain patterns are represented in reality by at least one lump of matter, irrespective of how many such lumps there are. On the other hand, I value that a particular lump of matter evolve within certain constraints (e.g., not dissolve into dust), irrespective of what other lumps of matter are doing. These two values have certain weights attached to them, and these weights determine (via expected utility) how I will choose between the values if I’m forced to do so.
In your example, I would likely agree with you and choose option A. I attach a very high value to some lump of matter realizing the pattern of our universe. Therefore, the possibility under option B that all the copies will be destroyed is a huge negative. The possibility that all the copies would be retained is a big positive (because I care about my own lump of matter), but not big enough.
On reflection, I believe that my values work thus: Once I’m assured that some copy of this universe will continue, I only care about another copy insofar as it is my own. As far as my values are concerned, there is no difference between 1 copy and 3^^^3 copies if none of them are my own copy.
On the one hand, I value that certain patterns are represented in reality by at least one lump of matter, irrespective of how many such lumps there are. On the other hand, I value that a particular lump of matter evolve within certain constraints (e.g., not dissolve into dust), irrespective of what other lumps of matter are doing. These two values have certain weights attached to them, and these weights determine (via expected utility) how I will choose between the values if I’m forced to do so.
In your example, I would likely agree with you and choose option A. I attach a very high value to some lump of matter realizing the pattern of our universe. Therefore, the possibility under option B that all the copies will be destroyed is a huge negative. The possibility that all the copies would be retained is a big positive (because I care about my own lump of matter), but not big enough.
On reflection, I believe that my values work thus: Once I’m assured that some copy of this universe will continue, I only care about another copy insofar as it is my own. As far as my values are concerned, there is no difference between 1 copy and 3^^^3 copies if none of them are my own copy.