Another Perfect World plot
Femke Wolting and Jorien van Nes paint a picture of the emergence of virtual worlds. For millions of people, the virtual universe is a place that is becoming increasingly intertwined with their real lives. Lineage, EVE Online and Second Life are examples of virtual worlds where the creators and players can create their own paradise, far removed from the real world; set up new worlds entirely according to their own ideas, ranging from democracy to dictatorship. Here the virtual inhabitants lead a life they never dared to dream of before; from warlord to successful cybersex entrepreneur. But who are the creators of these worlds and what ideas and ideologies underlie them? How does building a virtual Utopia work? What are the economic and political rules in the virtual world? Is there freedom of the press? How is trade conducted? Do the virtual inhabitants have to abide by laws, or are they finally completely free? Are they really ideal worlds without earthly limitations?