Radicalizing Social Virtual Realities

Haley R. Hatfield (current Grady Ph.D. student) (in press). “Radicalizing Social Virtual Realities,” in N. D. Bowman (Ed.)., Emerging issues for emerging technologies: informed provocations for theorizing media futures (Chapter 3). Peter Lang.

Abstract: Virtual reality (VR) can create and shape inclusive, diverse, and accessible environments. This technology allows people to transform an imaginary experience into a reality. However, when people can mold their virtual lifestyles into anything, we must be cautious of (re)producing harmful dominant norms in these virtual environments, such as norms influenced by white supremacy and cis-heteropatriarchy inflicting the “real world.” This chapter explores opportunities to resist prevailing norms and radicalize virtual realities to deconstruct persistent inequities within VR advancement, research practices, and VR for work and socialization. The chapter discusses future implications for scholars, creators, gamers, and more to commit to the fight for inclusive, just, accessible environments for all.