Embodiment, perception, and virtual reality

Abstract

Virtual reality flight simulators and architectural walk-through models appear to be based on the notion of reproducing reality or embodied presence. Theme parks and computer entertainment games however use virtual reality technologies to construct elaborate fantasy worlds. Human beings have continually tried to explore varying dimensions of consciousness through incantations, meditation, prayer, dream states, drugs and fantasies. Cultural forms such as film, literature, art and virtual reality could be considered as a means of producing virtual realities which allow the exploration of consciousness in particular ways. Each of these cultural forms operates slightly differently due to the potential and limitations of different media. The following discussion suggests that virtual reality is a specific cultural form which enables us to extend our human embodied condition by enhancing our capacities to think and act creatively.