"In the second media age 'reality' becomes multiple" (Poster 538); "virtual reality programs attest to the increasing 'duplication'... of reality by technology" (Poster 539).
The term "virtual" was used by computer technicians in order to describe multiple situations that were nothing but substitutes. Virtual reality is different because it suggests that there can be multiple realities. I agree with Poster in this statement. People are so engrossed in technology today that it seems as if "reality" and the world of technology are completely separate forms of reality.
"The effect of new media such as the Internet and virtual reality, then, is to multiply the kinds of 'realities' one encounters in society" (Poster 539).
Arcades, such as Boomers, have virtual reality roller coaster rides in which kids wait in line for an hour to ride. This "roller coaster" is supposed to not only simulate a roller coaster, but make it so that the replacement is just as good as the original thus eliminating the need to ride a real roller coaster. Virtual reality is used as a substitute for true reality and, eventually, has become as effective as the real thing. Virtual reality rides have peaked in popularity over the years because of their likeness to the real thing, becoming more than just a substitute, but a satisfying experience that no longer leaves the person with the desire to experience true reality.
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