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Reality+: Virtual Worlds and the Problems of Philosophy

In the coming decades, the technology that enables virtual and augmented reality will improve beyond recognition. Within a century, world-renowned philosopher David J. Chalmers predicts, we will have virtual worlds that are impossible to distinguish from non-virtual worlds. But is virtual reality just escapism? In a highly original work of 'technophilosophy', Chalmers argues categorically, no: virtual reality is genuine reality. Virtual worlds are not second-class worlds. We can live a meaningful life in virtual reality — and increasingly, we will.

What is reality, anyway? How can we lead a good life? Is there a god? How do we know there's an external world — and how do we know we're not living in a computer simulation? In Reality+, Chalmers conducts a grand tour of philosophy, using cutting-edge technology to provide invigorating new answers to age-old questions.

Drawing on examples from pop culture, literature and film that help bring philosophical issues to life, Reality+ is a mind-bending journey through virtual worlds, illuminating the nature of reality and our place within it.

  • Format
  • hardcover
  • Pages
  • 544
  • Language
  • english
  • ISBN
  • 978-0-241-32071-6
  • EAN
  • 9780241320716
  • Release date
  • 2022