Search

Identity in Virtual Reality: Philosophical Reflections on Digital Existence

Author(s)

Yuan Zhao*

Affiliation(s)

School of Politics, Law and Public Administration, Yan’an University, Yanan, Shaanxi, China *Corresponding Author

Abstract

This paper explores identity in virtual reality, focusing on the philosophical reflections prompted by digital existence. Utilizing literature review and theoretical analysis, we comprehensively review the evolution of virtual reality (VR) technology and its societal impact, followed by an in-depth analysis of various aspects of digital existence, including the virtualization of individual identity, the construction of multiple identities, and the blurred boundaries between virtual and real life. Employing multidisciplinary theoretical tools from philosophy, anthropology, and sociology, we analyze VR's profound effects on self-awareness and social identity from both macro and micro perspectives. Through comparing various identity theories, our study identifies significant differences between identity construction in VR and traditional contexts, notably in terms of self-identity plasticity, interaction diversity, and ethical scope extension. Additionally, we examine the cultural variations in VR's impact on identity and propose strategies and constructive suggestions to support future VR development and application. The findings indicate that VR, as a new mode of existence, is redefining individual and societal relationships, prompting a reconsideration of traditional identity concepts and advocating for a more inclusive and adaptable social identity framework.

Keywords

Virtual Reality; Identity; Digital Existence; Philosophical Reflection; Multidisciplinary Analysis

References

[1] He Zhonghua. Rethinking "Development": The Theme of "Development Philosophy" in the 21st Century [J]. Qiushi Academic Journal (5): 10-13 [2024-10-18]. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1000-7504.2000.05.002. [2] Guo Xiaoan, Zhao Haiming. The Succession of Media and the Recursion of Human "Subjectivity": Kittler's Media Ontology Thought and Reflection [J]. International Press, 2021, 43(6): 17. [3] Zhang Wu. The Cultural Effects and Landscape of the "Internet+" Era [J]. Northern Forum, 2017(5): 6. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1000-3541.2017.05.004. [4] He Guangsheng. Philosophical Reflections on the Growth and Success of College Students by Network Information Technology [D]. Nanjing Agricultural University [2024-10-18]. DOI: CNKI: CDMD:2.2010.174247. [5] Huang Huaipu. The Digital Survival of Aesthetics in the Era of Digital Virtuality [J]. Journal of Northwest Normal University: Social Science Edition, 2016(1): 5. DOI: 10.16783/j.cnki.nwnus.2016.01.010. [6] Yu Xue. Automation or Autonomy—On "Automated Survival" in the Age of Artificial Intelligence [J]. Exploration and Free Views, 2024(2): 153-161. [7] An Weifu, Yang Guangming. Metaverse: Category Spectrum, World Image and Future Indications [J]. Theory and Reform, 2022(6): 13. [8] Zhang Xiong. The Ontological Inquiry of "Digital Survival" [J]. Reprinted Newspapers and Periodicals: Philosophical Principles, 2022(12): 9. [9] Wu Menghan. "Using 'Virtual Reality' is Realistic": Metaphysical Thoughts and Practical Reflections on the Metaverse from the Perspective of Media Criticism [J]. Journal of Xinyang Normal University (Philosophy and Social Sciences Edition), 2024, 44(1): 18-24.