Extravagant Life
The New York Times recently ran an article about fashion in virtual worlds, especially Second Life. It seems people are spending alot of money in-world despite the sad state of the economy. This doesn’t surprise me, after all, the whole intent of a virtual world like Second Life is just as the name indicates. You go there to try things out, experiment, try things you wouldn’t try in real life, and buy things you can’t afford in real life. Consider that for a couple of US dollars you can buy a gorgeous evening gown, or tux and go out dancing all night to wonderful music in a visually rich setting.
I think the ability to do such things functions as a release for people who are stressed or depressed in real life. Oh, and I guess I could just call that fun. Instead of anaesthetizing themselves with alchohol, or turn their brain to mush in front of the TV, some people choose to go into a virtual world and be creative and social and have a good time. I see nothing wrong with that. I think Second Life should advertise itself that way: “Come and escape the drudgery of your life. Have a second life that is fun and interesting”.
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