Increasingly, I've been reading about the merging of the "real world" with online realities. Interestingly, there are people who make a real living designing avatars and homes or trading real-estate. People are also selling rights to simple entertainment systems in these worlds. Not to mention the real, virtual relationships. .
As these online worlds evolve, will they become fully immersive? That is, will people be able to satisfy all their mental/emotional needs in a virtual world? How about paying the bills? Will one be able to get a virtual job that enables them to support this lifestyle? Will the richness of these environments become truly compelling? Will something akin to the Matrix be the new reality?
I can envision a world in which some people live rich lives virtually. Where they go to work by entering a VR and having interactions with co-workers. Much of their social interaction could be achieved likewise. However, I don't see a substitute for physical contact. There's nothing like the sensations of a real, passionate kiss. The feel of your lover's breath or their scent. The caress of fingers on skin.
My prediction is that online worlds will become immersive to the point that one could satisfy virtually all of their non-corporal needs. For many folks, this will be enough, and they will essentially disappear into The Matrix. However, I believe that, while people may initiate and grow relationships in the VR, they will return to the physical world for their more base needs. Check back with me in a decade or two to see where this goes...
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