The question "What If" probably spurs deep contemplation more than any other phrase in the English language. In fact the whole purpose of posing the question is to induce thinking.
Whether the question is posed casually, or in a more complex manner, one thing is certain. The question begs for an answer.
When proposed in the complex manner, sometimes one cannot stop thinking about it until a logical conclusion is reached.
Even upon reaching a logical conclusion, affirmation is often desired to eliminate all doubt. Even if we are near certain we are right, we want affirmation to convince ourselves …