Virtual Society

The Metaverse and the new frontiers of human experience

A definitive guide to the metaverse — why it's important, why it matters to society, and how to create a metaverse that works for us.

The concept of the metaverse has recently exploded in the public consciousness. But its contours remain elusive. Is it merely an immersive virtual reality playground, one which Meta and other companies will angle to control? Is it simply the next generation of massive multiplayer online games? Or is it something more revolutionary?

As Herman Narula shows, the metaverse is actually the latest manifestation of an ancient human tendency- the act of world building. From the Egyptians, whose conception of death inspired them to build the pyramids, to modern-day sports fans, humans have long sought to supplement their day-to-day lives with a rich diversity of alternative experiences.

Rooting his vision in history and psychology, Narula argues that humans' intrinsic need for autonomy, accomplishment, and connection can now best be met in virtual 'worlds of ideas', in which users will have the chance to create and exchange meaning and value. Repositioning the metaverse as the growing set of fulfilling digital experiences Narula shows the arrival of the metaverse marks the beginning of a new age of exploration - not outward, but inward - with the potential to reshape society.

Rigorously researched and passionately argued, Virtual Society will be a provocative and essential guide for anyone who wants to go beyond superficial headlines to understand the true shape and potential of our virtual future

ISBN: 9780241616598 | Published: 18 October 2022 | Trade paperback | 272 pages