Arts and Humanities Commons^™

Defying The ‘Magic Circle’: Unethical Acts In Virtual Worlds, Michael Bohling

3690: A Journal of First-Year Student Research Writing

Overview: This article investigates the complex and controversial exclusion of real world law from virtual worlds. By including examples of several documented unethical acts that have occurred in virtual worlds, this article suggests that real world law should be carried into virtual spaces in order to protect users. Some forms of protection discussed within this essay include the transfer of property rights and consequences of legal prosecution in order to deter unethical behaviors. Finally, this article includes benefits of adopting these strategies, while also acknowledging the potential negatives.

Imagine a world where you can be perfect; a world where you …