Second Life is a growing virtual world. It is popular amongst all types of people and businesses. I have never used Second Life, but I don't understand the drive to go on it. Why would you go online to socialize, or build a business, basically just live another life. Are people so dissatisfied with their own ability to breathe and move on their own that they have to sit at a computer and move an image around a screen to socialize? Yale University stated that they use Second Life as a virtual resource for creating new buildings on campus. This way they can see the schematics of the building without hiring an architect.
However, there are over a million active members on Second Life. All of them are probably not just online to see what a new structure will look like. What else is there to do on the site? Live the dream life you want?
If you are so dissatisfied with your own life, do something to change it. Don't create an alter ego on a virtual website. Is our world depending on technology too much and we will all become useless life forms?
Posts
Social Gaming is Taking Over
14 years ago
Just as one would watch a movie, tv or play a video game, it is another way to gain a temporary escape from the routine. I'm not entirely sure how Second Life works - but it doesn't seem too different from games like The Sims or Rollercoaster Tycoon.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with your frustrations, it doesn't seem to make sense why people would choose to exist in a virtual world as opposed to interacting in real life. But, at the same time, I feel like this concept is still in it's infancy, and it's purpose is still to be determined.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I think this could be a great tool for some people with disabilities who cannot leave their house much. This may be the only social interaction they may get.
I think its strange to use as an alter life, but the articles I read made it sound more like a tool to use for educational purposes. Like the students from Yale that went on a 'field trip' that otherwise would have been impossible.
ReplyDeleteIf it's for an educational device, a business tool, an alternative life, or just something fun to play with; I think will see if technology has gone too far in the next few years. And what seems outrageous to us, could become the norm.
ReplyDeleteI think it is very weird. It is for people who lack real social skills, and it is really creepy in my eyes. I dont want to be socializing with a avitar that is a kinky looking chick when they are really a overweight balding 40 year old with the keyboard resting on his beer belly.
ReplyDelete