The Thinking Machine Show

Beyond the Tech: Rethinking Immersion and Empathy in Virtual Worlds


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What if virtual reality doesn’t guarantee empathy? 🤔 In this episode, we dive deep into Kukshinov’s critique of tech-determinism in immersive technologies 🌐. He challenges the idea that VR and AR can automatically foster understanding or perspective-taking, highlighting how true immersion depends on active mental effort 🧠.

🎮 Gamers, take note! This isn’t just about headsets and holograms—it’s about storytelling, cognitive engagement, and the potential pitfalls of stereotyping when these tools are misused. We break down sensory vs. mental immersion, explore the delicate balance between narrative and empathy, and ask: how can we wield these technologies responsibly?

✨ Tune in to hear fresh insights, thought-provoking criticism, and bold predictions for the future of virtual experiences.


Kukshinov, Eugene (2024) "The Capabilities of Immersive Technologies to Induce Empathy, Tell Stories, and Immerse," Newhouse Impact Journal: Vol. 2: Iss. 1, Article 7.Available at: https://surface.syr.edu/newhouseimpactjournal/vol2/iss1/7


#VirtualReality #ImmersiveTech #EmpathyInGaming #StorytellingMatters #TechCritique #VRInnovation #Kukshinov #PodcastDiscussion

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The Thinking Machine ShowBy Alessio Piovesan