Modeling Reality with Virtual Worlds

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We live in a digital world where almost everything exists through technology. The need for real life interaction has declined and it has been replaced with virtual reality. Virtual reality is exactly what you think it is. It is a reality within the virtual world where you can interact   with people all over the world and do many activities without ever leaving your room. Whether it be playing games with others or just hanging out with friends, there is a virtual world for almost everyone in the world. Just like any other technological advancement, there are always positives and negatives when it comes to virtual worlds. 

Virtual worlds can have many applications in the real world. According to the article "After Second Life, Can Virtual Worlds Get a Reboot?", virtual worlds can be used in education, delivery services, or even healthcare through videoconferences. It can help people all over the world and would prevent people from being alone ever again. Whether it is a positive really depends on a person's perspective. People who value privacy may find this too invasive of their privacy and may stray away from virtual worlds. However, for people who constantly feel alone and long for social interaction, they can interact with people without even leaving their room. 

Virtual worlds can also help people who suffer from mental illness or disorders. The fact that a person cannot be physically harmed through the use of virtual reality can be very reassuring for people who want to interact with others but are unable to because of their unfortunate circumstances. According to the article "iReport: 'Naughty Auties' battle autism with virtual interaction", social interaction for people suffering from Asperger's syndrome and other disorders within the autism spectrum is very difficult in person. However, when they interact with other people in a virtual world, it can help them create a comfort zone that can help them get out of shells and communicate with other people. It is a safe space where people who are not comfortable with in-person social interaction can communicate with other people all over the world


As we progress in this age of technology, we will continue to see the advancement of virtual worlds. This have created a new generation where technology is always available, and the need of social interaction is no longer necessary in everyday life. We should be prepared to see a world where people live online. This can be a detriment to society because people will no longer find a need to go outside to communicate with others. While virtual worlds can be a great resource, it is important to always use things with moderation. Too much virtual reality can lead a person to lose their touch on reality. 

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