The Ethics of Realism as a New Media Language in Immersive Media

Abstract

This work explores the ethical and moral limits of practicing realism in immersive nonfiction. To establish these practices, the nonfiction media ecosystem is analyzed from traditional to emerging immersive forms. Four significant forms of nonfiction works are discussed that reflect different ethics of realism: documentary, journalism, education, and cultural heritage. Through the description and presentation of each form, a provisional set of elements, variables, indicators and parameters that impact practices and ethics of realism are presented. These compositional elements can be implemented in the design, development and production of experiences for audiences that respect social, cultural, political, physical, and material realities.