So in class last Tuesday we discussed the program Second Life, and watched an interview with the creator of this virtual world.  He had a lot to say about how this type of virtual reality is going to snowball and we won't be able to turn back once it has. I disagree on so many levels. Philip, don't flatter yourself. While the internet has certainly made world-wide communication a reality, there is just no substitute for reality and real life experiences. You can't hide behind an avatar in life just like you can't hide behind a World of Warcraft character or any other video game or hobby. It all seems very materialistic and narcissistic to me that people are actually spending money on virtual clothing and houses while there are people in the world who not only do not have computers, but do not have sufficient clothing or housing. No matter what Philip Rosedale says, I really hope this program does not change the world. I think everyone should stop trying to escape the problems of the real world, and start trying to fix them.

With that said, one potential benefit of Second Life as with any social network is the exchange of ideas internationally. It was very interesting to see that a company proposed a gulf-stream located, wind-powered device and built a model of it to be used and seen in Second Life. Rosedale also mentioned in the interview the use of symbols as universal communication, like how you could either say "chair" or there could be a virtual chair in front of you. This was an interesting concept but it is worthless unless it is pushed further in a way that could benefit the world beyond social interactions. In short, unless people really utilize Second Life in productive ways, it is really no different than wasting your time in a chat room or The Sims.