Second Life versus Real Life?

By: Peter (pcnewtone)

A recent forum post raised the concern, "Why would you need a second life unless you didn't have a first life?" Reflecting on that question, it occurred to me that the problem may be in the name itself.

Words create realities. This question would seldom arise if Second Life had been called "Global Encounter" or something else. Other virtual worlds – InWorldz, Avination, Kitely, OpenSim, etc. – don't usually get that question. Why? Because their names do not create the first impression that they are in any way different from – or opposed to – real life.

If Alexander Bell had named his world-changing invention "Virtual Talk," it would probably not have detracted from our "real talk" any more than by calling it a "Telephone," although it may have raised more doubts in that regard. If the “Television” had been called “Alternate Reality,” it would not have invaded our primary reality any more than it has.

The telephone, television and other technologies are tools, and as such can be used to constructive or destructive ends. Virtual worlds are no exception: some may use them as an escape from reality or a waste of time, but they have also enabled real people to meet and share in ways they could never have done without this revolutionary technology. As Bahá'ís, we have been able to enrich the lives of hundreds of people who may never have heard of the Faith otherwise.

As Lauwrence LeShan said in Alternate Realities: The Search for the Full Human Being, "A reality is real to you when you act in terms of it… It is a valid reality when, using it, you can accomplish the goals acceptable to it."

Of course, the best way to decide for yourself is to experience a virtual world directly. In the meantime, however, here is what some Second Life residents have commented:

"This should never have been called Second Life, but rather a cooperative artistic endeavor, a unique opportunity to give fuller expression to special facets of who we really are, a virtual space for global encounters, a place beyond place that transcends geographical distance and obstacles." 

"In awe of Second Life ~ First Life compels my Second, and Second Life compels my first. The looking glass between the two is crystalline, absorbs the light and darkness, and drives the poetry that is my saving grace." 

"It's all RL [Real Life]... friends are friends, promises are promises, lies are lies." 

"Yes, of course, I have an account in RL too."

There are many posts on the Web on this interesting issue. Here are some good starting places:

“How Second Life Impacts Our First Life…”, Henry Jenkins:
http://henryjenkins.org/2007/03/my_main_question_to_jenkins.html

Real Life vs First Life discussion forum:
http://community.secondlife.com/t5/General-Discussions/Real-Life-vs-First-Life/td-p/369806


Note: The opinions and views expressed in this article are those of the author only and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of VirtualBahai or any institution of the Baha’i Faith.