They have full control over the simulation, but they hardly have full control over time itself. I posit that this is the last simulation, and they are running out of time. That's why they must perform more drastic actions than previous ones.

[ just saying it feels like betrayal, however. there's a desperation to it that kaveh isn't comfortable with. the last simulation. could that really be it?

he considers this. ]

I agree with this analysis. But I'd push it one step further - community cohesion has always been about the capacity to choose others over the needs of oneself. I think of the way this city tests for intent. If I knock a hole in a wall, it will be repaired. But if I knock a hole in the wall for the purpose of building a diner, a community project, it's allowed to remain. This isn't so much about survival, then, but it's about value.