Virtual Realism

"Virtual Realism" is an art form and a way of living with technology. To explain it, Michael Heim draws on a hypertext of topics, from answering machines to interactive art, from engineering to television programs, from the meaning of UFOs to the Internet. The technology of virtual reality brought a new dimension to culture with its virtual offices and cyberspace friendships - but few agree on its merits. Opinions range from the Unabomber's Luddite activism to Wired's cyberpunk attitude to Bill Gate's commercial optimism. This text guides readers through the debate and suggests ways of harmonizing computers with culture, The book begins with the primer "VR 101". The issues are discussed, then several chapters illustrate virtual realism with tours through art exhibits and engineering projects. Each chapter suggests a harmony of technology with lifestyle. Michael Heim is the author of the award-winning "The Metaphysics of Virtual Reality" (OUP, 1993) and the ground-breaking "Electric Language" (1987). In this book, the author shares the discoveries he made over several years in the studios of VR designers. It is intended for the general reader.