Virtual Worlds, Real Politics : Ethical Competencies for the Next Digital Age

This book examines how political theory engages with the evolving moral landscapes shaped by digital environments, while providing a comprehensive analysis of how political and ethical theories can be applied within the simulated ecosystems to promote just governance, responsible citizenship, and meaningful civic participation.

While technological advancements dominate much of the conversation on virtual platforms and the political power that ensues, there remains a crucial gap in knowledge when addressing fundamental questions about the distribution of power, the formation of political communities and the application of ethical principles in these digital contexts. Drawing on philosophical insights of thinkers such as Hobbes, Spinoza, Plato and Mill, Liza Ireni-Saban and Francesca Consolaro examine how political theory engages with the evolving moral landscapes shaped by digital environments. They aim to provide a comprehensive analysis of how political and ethical theories can be applied within simulated ecosystems to promote just governance, responsible citizenship and meaningful civic participation. Academics and professionals across various sectors who wish to expand their subject knowledge of the ethical and political dimensions of the metaverse and the virtual sphere and of their significance for addressing real-world moral and practical challenges should buy this book.