Reality+: Virtual Worlds and the Problems of Philosophy

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Penguin Books, 2022 - Computers - 544 pages
In the coming decades, the technology that enables virtual and augmented reality will improve beyond recognition. Within a century, world-renowned philosopher David J. Chalmers predicts, we will have virtual worlds that are impossible to distinguish from non-virtual worlds. But is virtual reality just escapism? In a highly original work of 'technophilosophy', Chalmers argues categorically, no- virtual reality is genuine reality. Virtual worlds are not second-class worlds. We can live a meaningful life in virtual reality - and increasingly, we will.

What is reality, anyway? How can we lead a good life? Is there a god? How do we know there's an external world - and how do we know we're not living in a computer simulation? In Reality+, Chalmers conducts a grand tour of philosophy, using cutting-edge technology to provide invigorating new answers to age-old questions.

Drawing on examples from pop culture, literature and film that help bring philosophical issues to life, Reality+ is a mind-bending journey through virtual worlds, illuminating the nature of reality and our place within it.

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About the author (2022)

David J. Chalmers is University Professor of Philosophy and Director of the Center for Mind, Brain, and Consciousness at New York University. He has given the John Locke lectures and has been awarded the Jean Nicod prize and the Jon Barwise prize. He has been ranked in The Philosopher's Magazine as the second-most important living philosopher and was ranked 16th on the Prospect magazine's list of the 100 most important world thinkers in 2015. He is the author of The Conscious Mind which has been translated into 10 languages.

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