Virtue, Vice, and Virtual Worlds: A Theological Perspective on Moral Formation

Abstract

The virtual is very accessible. What was once the realm of those with access to expensive technological equipment is now available to anyone with a computer and a high-speed Internet connection. The computer serves as a terminal to other worlds, worlds filled with wizards, warriors, and talking animals. Some even prognosticate a mass exodus to virtual worlds, with an increasing number of people spending more time there and demanding the real world to change if it wants them back. As more people move significant portions of their lives into virtual worlds, the way they are shaped there will influence their real-world moral formation, their growth as holistic human beings, and their ability to live within authentic community. In order to understand what is at stake, this increasingly popular “destination” requires careful evaluation. The following seeks to highlight what is at stake from a Christian theological perspective. First, I will describe this particular perspective along with key theological themes. Second, I will briefly describe virtual worlds with one particular example, Second Life. Finally, I will address pertinent issues of moral formation, bringing the theological perspective to bear on virtual worlds and the particular challenges they can pose to moral formation. While virtual worlds should not be demonized or avoided altogether, Christians must be aware of the unique challenges they can pose to the development of human character and community as defined theologically.