Is it okay?

"VR has become a powerful medium, offering hyper-realistic simulations that can transport us to far-off cities, historical periods, or fantastical worlds," said Ava, sipping her coffee.

"Indeed. This unique capability has immense allure but also brings to the forefront several ethical dilemmas, including representation, cultural appropriation, and potential marginalization," responded Olivia. " Well, think about it. Want to climb Mount Everest but can't afford it? There's a VR for that. Want to experience being a rock star? There's a VR for that, too. You can even date with AI-generated dream partners if you want."

"Dates with AI partners? That's a bit... I don't know, it feels morally complicated?" Ava sounded hesitant. 

"Morally complicated? It's just a game, Ava," Olivia chuckled. 

"Is it, though? What's the line between living a fantasy and deceiving yourself? Don't we just avoid real life and connections by doing that?" Ava still was not sure of the idea.

"Woah, getting deep there. But okay, I get what you're saying. VR can be like a sandbox for experiences we can't or shouldn't have in the real world. But sometimes it's not about avoiding reality but exploring possibilities, don't you think?" Olivia went on. 

"Exploring possibilities? Like what?" Ava asked.

"Like, say, you're interested in ancient Egypt. You can tour the pyramids or experience a day in the life of an ancient Egyptian. It can be educational. Or, think of people with physical limitations; VR can offer them experiences they can't easily have," Olivia elaborated.

"I get that, but doesn't it affect our sense of what's real and what's not? What if someone becomes so engrossed in their 'perfect' virtual world that they neglect their real life and relationships?" Ava moved around on her chair as if not comfortable with the idea.

"Fair point. Like any technology, it's about how you use it, right? You can misuse or overuse it. But the medium itself isn't inherently bad. People used to say the same things about novels or the Internet; they can take you away from reality, make you antisocial, etc." Olivia said, leaning forward. 

"True, but with VR, the immersion level is much higher. It's not just reading or seeing; it's experiencing. That's a different level of impact on your psyche, I think," Ava said. 

"So, it's not VR itself you have an issue with, but how immersive it is? Isn't that the point, though? To make experiences as real as possible?" Olivia continued. 

Yeah, but "as real as possible" is the tricky part. What happens to our moral compass when we can't tell the difference anymore? What happens to our sense of empathy or consequence?" Ava was not sure of crossing the line.

That's something we have to navigate, for sure. But avoiding a new experience entirely because it has potential pitfalls isn't the answer. We should be looking at ways to integrate it responsibly into our lives," Olivia sounded reassuring. 

"Hmm, you do make a good point. It's not black and white, I guess. Maybe the key is balance and self-awareness," Ava said, finishing her coffee and putting down her cup.

"Exactly! So, are you willing to give it another try, perhaps a more immersive experience?" Olivia prodded Ava.

"Maybe, but I'll set some boundaries for myself. And you’re coming with me, so if I start losing touch with reality, you can pull me back!" Ava smiled.

"Deal! It'll be an adventure," Olivia chuckled and looked away at the horizon, contemplating how VR can change how we imagine life.

Tears in Heaven

There were days when the burden of loneliness would win the battle in Mike's mind. For almost two decades, he has had to singularly take on the mantle to bring up Olivia. 

Mike was seated on the couch, sipping his favorite Jack.

"Dad," Olivia said, "you okay?"

"Yeah, sweetheart," Mike responded, trying to hide behind a cooked-up smile.

"Well, you can't even fake a smile properly," Olivia smiled and responded. She had been moons around with Mike for her to know when her dad was smiling out of happiness and the fake ones.

"Well, Dad, you are sipping your poison, and with Tears in Heaven playing, you are making it too easy for me to guess," she hugged Mike. 

TechCrunch Disrupt

"I would be flying into the Bay in September for the event," Liam said over the phone. 

Disrupt — the original startup conference — stays fresh, relevant, and focused on founders, investors, and the future of tech year after year. Whether you’re a startup rookie learning the ropes, a seasoned investor searching for the next big thing, or a founder hell-bent on changing the world - Disrupt delivers the tools, knowledge, and connections to help you make it happen. Whether you want to meet founders or investors, get advice, or find your next gig, Disrupt offers ample opportunities and ways to connect with the right people to meet your goals. At Disrupt, the trail-blazing founders will share their journeys, best practices, how-tos, actionable tips, and takeaways to help you avoid pitfalls.

TechCrunch Disrupt is also a showcase for game-changing startups determined to make a difference with cutting-edge technology. An incubator for creativity, the people and programming at Disrupt spark new ideas and stoke inspiration.

TechCrunch Disrupt has a particular emphasis on startups and investment opportunities. The event is attended by many investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, making it an ideal opportunity for companies looking to raise funding or explore networking opportunities.

"Although TechCrunch Disrupt is not primarily a VR/AR event, the topic inevitably features heavily, and the audience is ideal for networking and making connections within the VR/AR industry," he added.

"I would love to come," Olivia responded. "I need to check and make travel arrangements, though."

"It would be nice if you could make it, "Liam added.

"Yup. I also have in mind someone with who I can get along with," Olivia responded. "That is if he can arrange for T&E for the trip.

"Swell," responded Liam. 

"Thanks for the call. I will get back once I have firmed up my plans," Olivia responded before hanging up.