ABSTRACT
Chapter 20 explores the rise of the ‘metaverse’ & virtual reality. With new concepts such as Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) & intangible online assets, there have been questions raised about potential concerns (both fair and unfair) & how society needs to be mindful about the use of new technology. Older generations and politicians hailing over the ‘culture wars’ and not addressing the issues effectively, and making generalized assumptions around behaviour, messaging and impact. The increasing popularity of social media platform TikTok, with algorithms creating user-specific content & rising stars who are ‘ordinary people’, has proven very effective in creating a sense of intimacy between young users, in a way that Facebook, in particular, is struggling to achieve. The chapter ends with an interview with creative entrepreneur James K. Wight, who discusses TikTok, Generation Z and the influence of politics on content. He believes there is a gap in the market for animated content, with ‘tent pole’ characters driving stories and allowing for transferability. He theorizes about the future & Generation Alpha who, he predicts, will succumb to total virtual immersion, as individuals become more attracted to this sense of ultimate control.
