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Thomas Ham

Mrs. Barnes

English 112

31 October 2017

1-Up! A New Type of Life in Virtual Reality

Reality is a difficult thing to describe. While the simple definition of reality would be

observation of the physical world, it is far more complicated than this. A dream is not reality,

yet it is the observation of a world. Its not an accurate display of the real existence. It is a

place created by ones mind. Now, with new technology, we are able to create the sense of sight

and touch of a different life. These new computing systems are called Virtual Reality

(Otherwise known as VR.) VR is a technology that provides users with an interaction with

computer-simulated environments (Petechuk). It can do an enormous amount of tasks, from

Entertainment and gaming, to saving a life halfway across the globe with a robot and a surgeon

in a real-time real-life simulation. However, there are some complications about virtual reality.

Currently, VR is only in an incipient state. The use of headsets do not permit a great amount of

movement. And for most people, the price range is too high (Virtual Reality). Some may abuse

the system and become addicted to this state-of-the-art program. There are different problems,

but for the most part, benefits outweigh the downsides. Virtual reality is an advancement of

technology that allows further progress of human society.

Virtual reality is a computer generated mind-space with input and output devices that

enables the user to interact with it and experience it (Kelly). With this technology, it can create

said space to aid those with disabilities. For example, if a deaf person were to wear a sort of
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display, they could visually see the words another person would speak. If a person was blind,

they could have a virtual field around them that allows them to feel and hear everything around

them. Even if one has a mobility disability, they would be able to use a program that senses small

gestures. This would give them the ability to write/type, create their own music, or even simulate

the playing of an instrument (Kelly).

Not only does it help other people, but it also helps music and other fine arts as well. One

good example of this is that instead of just listening to music, one could virtually be at a

concert. It also allows those who are unable to play an instrument the ability to learn one. Also in

filmmaking, virtual reality can be used as a new type of immersion into the story and world of

the movie. New genres and types of movies could rise. Not only could people experience film

and music in a different way, many could become more cultured, even when they sit in the

comfort of their own home. With this new sort of presence with VR Headsets, one could go to a

museum of art, history, science, etc. without travelling far (Ham, T. C.). Without the limits of

expense and time for travelling, one could experience something in its original context. Gaming

could have a golden age of new games with true immersion into the game. Gamers will no longer

be blocked by keyboards/mouses or controllers, but by the movement of their body.

In a recent survey, 87.7% said that VR was either a beneficial technology or a neutral

advancement with equal pros and cons. Most of the people who said that it was harmful to

society have not actually tried VR for themselves (Ham, Thomas). Those who have educated

themselves on the subject have realized the potential greatness that it holds. Ultimately, VR is

just a further advancement of technology. Clearly, like any other progression, there will be some

flaws. But even with these flaws, the gain one could potentially have is virtually infinite.
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Works Cited

Ham, T. C.. Personal interview. 15 March 2017.

Ham, Thomas. Virtual Reality Survey. Survey, 15 March 2017.

Kelly, William R., and Patrick Kinsella. "Virtual reality and disabilities." Contemporary

Review, vol. 265, no. 1546, 1994, p. 234+. Global Issues in Context,

link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A16514186/GIC?u=mass12242&xid=7ac01b6c.

Accessed 26 Dec. 2016.

Petechuk, David. "Virtual reality." The Gale Encyclopedia of Science, edited by K. Lee
Lerner and Brenda Wilmoth Lerner, 5th ed., Gale, 2014. Student Resources in
Context,
link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/CV2644032355/SUIC?u=mass12242&xid=26f86c40.
Accessed 4 Jan. 2017.

"Virtual reality gets more real." Christian Science Monitor, 7 Jan. 2016. Opposing
Viewpoints in Context,
link.galegroup.com/apps/doc/A439248832/OVIC?u=mass12242&xid=80801358.
Accessed 4 Jan. 2017.