Why Young People Prefer Virtual Worlds: Seeking Respite from Reality

Why do people want to live in virtual reality now? The concept once seemed almost obsolete, a niche area for gamers and technical enthusiasts. However, recent trends suggest a shift in attitudes, with younger generations finding solace and pleasure in virtual worlds.

Who Exactly Wants to “Live” in Virtual Reality Now?

The notion of living in a virtual world may sound like a technophobic delusion, but the reality is more nuanced. People engage with virtual reality (VR) for a variety of reasons: as a means of learning, creativity, entertainment, or relaxation. Unlike some of the more marginalised cases of obsessive individuals, the majority of VR users understand the distinction between the virtual and the real.

VR technologies offer a sense of immersion that is unmatched by other mediums. It allows users to experience different perspectives and escape the mundane aspects of daily life. As XR (Extended Reality) technologies continue to evolve, Mixed Reality (MR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are likely to become more mainstream. This could result in people spending increasing amounts of time in semi-virtual environments, much like they do with their smartphones today. While this phenomenon may not be entirely healthy, it reflects a broader trend in how people engage with digital content.

Living in Virtual Reality: A Reality of Our Times

Just like how many people already live in artificial realities through their smartphones, computers, and laptops, VR offers an extension of this digital existence. Indeed, we already spend a significant portion of our lives immersed in our personal echo-chambers, ignoring the real world for our digital fantasies. Unlike dedicated VR users, these individuals may find it difficult to distinguish between what they see on a screen and the real world. This trend is not unique to VR and can be observed across various forms of digital content consumption.

The Appeal of Virtual Reality

People enjoy VR for numerous reasons: experiences, exercise, entertainment, movies, and social interactions. Unlike the pervasive notion of living in VR, most individuals are content with using it for specific purposes. In fact, attempting to live in VR is impractical. To give perspective, the current world record for a single longest VR session stands at 50 hours, barely a week. The practicality of living in VR is severely limited, and it's unlikely that many people would seriously entertain the idea.

The Pursuit of Perfection: Idealizing the Digital World

Humans consistently strive to feel special and unique. We aim to maintain a flawless, idealized version of ourselves in the digital realm. From Instagram-perfect lives to a quest for utter happiness and wealth, the allure of virtual worlds is undeniable. However, perfection is an unattainable dream in reality. Our lives are fraught with imperfections and challenges. We are not flawless, and we often hide our imperfections to achieve a more perfect image. Social media and digital environments provide a sanctuary where we can project the perfect version of ourselves.

While virtual worlds may seem ideal, the reality is filled with challenges, including financial struggles, relationship breakdowns, and personal losses. Despite these hardships, we continue to seek refuge in digital utopias. Luxury, freedom, and happiness are achievable in the digital world, but reality remains complex and multifaceted. Each moment of life is precious, and instead of focusing on material possessions or financial success, we should value the present and the experiences that truly matter.

Conclusion: Embracing the Present

It is important to recognize that while virtual worlds offer a respite from the harsh realities of life, they cannot replace the depth and complexity of real experiences. The pursuit of happiness and fulfillment must involve embracing the imperfections and challenges of the real world. In the end, the beauty of life lies in its imperfections and the richness of our experiences. Instead of striving for illusions of perfection, we should focus on living authentically and making the most of the moments we have.

Ultimately, the digital world can be a tool for enrichment and entertainment, but it should not overshadow the importance of facing and appreciating the complexities of real life. As young people increasingly turn to virtual worlds, it is crucial to find a healthy balance between digital and real-world experiences. This balance will enable us to lead more fulfilling and meaningful lives, one moment at a time.