A very real Virtual Society: some macrosociological reflections on "Second Life"

Abstract

"Contrasting with various 'virtual communities', Second Life is a genuine 'virtual society' with the potential to provide a universal framework of interoperability between unlimited masses of individual as well as collective actors. By mirroring (end even amplifying) the acentrism and individualism of contemporary society, it is characterized by precarious member motivation, conservative conventionalism, a strong focus on money, a tendency toward class formation and a conspicuous deficit in politics and the public sphere. On the other hand, it contrasts with 'First Life' by offering malleable artifacts and situated environments which are likely to transform deeply the way people surf and interact on the net." (author's abstract)