This course is a philosophical exploration of the potential impact of the future implementation of the VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality), Mixed Reality (MR) technology in our daily lives. Starting from a philosophical analysis of the notion of the Metaverse as a simulation hypothesis, where the object of the simulation is our experience of ‘being there’ in a virtual world beyond and parallel to the physical world, the course will address a range of philosophical issues arising from the actual and potential impact of the Metaverse on human lives.

CILO-1: Distinguish between AR, ER, VR technology. CILO-2: Identify key theoretical features grounding the notion of the Metaverse (e.g., simulation hypothesis, metaphysical status of the Metaverse). CILO-3: Distinguish and identify the main areas of critical analysis related to the future implementation of the Metaverse (e.g., justice and equality, economy, environment and ecology, art, psychology, morality). CILO-4: Identify the features characterizing virtual experience as distinct from non-virtual experience. CILO-5: Recognize the main moral issues triggered by the future implementation of AR, ER, and VR technology, and to identify potential solutions. CILO-6: Think critically about the Metaverse, its potentiality for personal development, its impact on human life, and its role in society.