Two very interesting articles related with my research are the ones below:
http://www.pravmir.com/article_261.html
and http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17286291/wid/11915829/
The first article analyzes the Othodoxy’s view on virtual reality.
“In practice, the problem of a Christian’s approach to virtual reality is solved, partially, by the fact that it shares well-known similarities with other forms of fantasia. Wherever there is lust, or anger, or greed, or gluttony, the images that incite these passions should be avoided or turned off: “If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out” (Matthew 5:29). The virtuality of an act should be understood as old-fashioned fantasia. That is why the gunning down of virtual people in so-called “first-person shooter” games is so troubling.”
I have mentioned the issue of “Spectacular” in previous posts and this article is so relevant with the issue of Spectacle in art. Fantasia is a relative word to spectacle therefore the decision to keep my project on a less spectacular or impressive style was the the right one. Ofcourse the presence of a virtual chapel in Second Life is quite “modern” and alien to the Orthodox church rimes but it works in this environment and creates new ethics that assimilate with the standard. Its working in a simillar way that television broadcast the liturgy every Sunday. The flock has to choose between Going to Church on Sunday, viewing the liturgy on tv or stay and sleep in the cosy bed. The physical presence at the house of God is different than the comfort of sitting on the sofa. The Holy Communion also enables the believer to commune the Holy Spirit and receive the blood and flesh of Jesus Christ. But why not for a church to exist in a virtual environment. It can also commune the Holy Spirit to the receiver in a different level.
One day i logged in Second Life. I was hearing strange noises, and mans voice. Somebody left a robotic avatar looping inexpedient words just next to my chapel. Someones sick fantasia used virtual environment and knowledge to create something sick.
The second articles analyzes the research in helping patients overcome ills.
“Researchers are studying whether a video-game version of Iraq can help returning veterans cope better with post-tramautic stress disorder.”
“The evidence is still tentative, but experts on virtual worlds as well as health care say they see a lot of promise in virtual worlds as a forum for addressing real-world woes in a kinder, gentler environment.”
Therefore why not a virtual world that is relative to religion ethics not be able to offer similar benefits to people who suffer psychologically or bodily.
