Reality+: Virtual Worlds and the Problems of Philosophy - Hardcover

Chalmers, David J.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0241320712 ISBN 13: 9780241320716

Publisher: Allen Lane, 2022

Synopsis

'Everyone should read this important book' Josh Glancy, Sunday Times

'One of the most important living philosophers' Bryan Appleyard, Spectator

In the coming decades, the technology that enables virtual and augmented reality will improve beyond recognition. Within a century, world-renowned philosopher David J. Chalmers predicts, we will have virtual worlds that are impossible to distinguish from non-virtual worlds. But is virtual reality just escapism?

In a highly original work of 'technophilosophy', Chalmers argues categorically, no: virtual reality is genuine reality. Virtual worlds are not second-class worlds. We can live a meaningful life in virtual reality - and increasingly, we will.

What is reality, anyway? How can we lead a good life? Is there a god? How do we know there's an external world - and how do we know we're not living in a computer simulation? In Reality+, Chalmers conducts a grand tour of philosophy, using cutting-edge technology to provide invigorating new answers to age-old questions.

Drawing on examples from pop culture, literature and film that help bring philosophical issues to life, Reality+ is a mind-bending journey through virtual worlds, illuminating the nature of reality and our place within it.

Edition details

• Publisher: Allen Lane
• Publication date: 2022
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0241320712
• ISBN 13: 9780241320716
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 520