07. Human Suffering in the Era of Manipulated Media and Virtual Reality
In the dystopian future of 2040, the global society has become desensitised to human suffering due to constant exposure to manipulated media content. In the sprawling metropolis of Neo-Tokyo, digital billboards and virtual reality platforms bombard citizens with sensational news and AI-generated deep fakes, normalising violence and suffering. A popular virtual reality show, "HyperReality," often depicts graphic content, further numbing its viewers to real-world issues. Social media influencer Luna Kaito, known for her extreme views, spreads divisive content, exacerbating the lack of empathy.
Individual outcomes
Individuals like Kenji, a young tech worker in Neo-Tokyo, become indifferent to global crises, leading to moral disengagement and a lack of empathy.
Societal outcomes
Societally, this leads to easier acceptance and normalising of abuse, violence and armed conflicts, increased human rights violations and a breakdown in social cohesion.
Competences involved in this scenario:
Social systems affected by this scenario:
M9. Ethical considerations
D5. AI tools and disinformation
S5. Content credibility
Human Rights Organisations
Media
Educational Systems
Government