Royalty in the metaverse
This post was written by a student. It has not been fact checked or edited.
The role of royals is already disputed in the real world. People criticise the monarchs and protest against them. Just how bad will it get in the metaverse, where rules and laws and governments will probably change into a more modern system?
The role of royals is balancing on a pin. One bad move and they could get themselves off the throne. Around 2000 people joined Republic, an anti-royal group, to protest on May 6, the day of the King's coronation. The metaverse will mean that logistics don't matter and that you can protest from your home. Also, people say that royalty is a bit of an old-fashioned idea. In the metaverse, a new, modern, and promising land, do we want an old-fashioned idea?
On the other hand, royals would be a leading figure in the metaverse. Could we have one world where they existed and another where they didn't? Displays and processions could be done at such less cost than in the real world. Flybys could be done without much effort, and their exstensive budget is the main reason why people don't like the royals. The coronation could have cost £100 million. In the metaverse it would more like £10,000.
So, what do you think? Should we have royals in the metaverse? Is that too old-fashioned? Why? Why not?
Comments (2)
Thanks for your thoughtful piece Centered_Moose! Are the royals already online through their use of social media? How do you think this compares to them being in the metaverse? Your idea of there being more than one metaverse, with one having the royal family and the other not was interesting! Can you see any issues with us being able to choose different 'worlds' based on our beliefs?
Hey centered_moose,
Your comment raises an interesting question about the role of royals in the metaverse, where rules, laws, and governments may undergo significant changes. It is true that the position of royals is already being disputed in the real world, and there are protests against them. In the metaverse, where virtual protests can be organized from the comfort of one's own home, the potential for criticism and opposition could be amplified.
The metaverse represents a new and promising frontier, and it's natural to question whether an old-fashioned idea like royalty is suitable in such a modern context. The metaverse offers opportunities for virtual displays, processions, and flybys at significantly reduced costs compared to the real world. This could potentially make the presence of royals more feasible and affordable, addressing one of the concerns that people have about the extensive budgets associated with the monarchy.
However, the question ultimately comes down to whether having royals in the metaverse aligns with the values and aspirations of the virtual society. While some may argue for the inclusion of royals as leading figures in the metaverse, others may view it as outdated and unnecessary. The metaverse represents a chance to redefine and reimagine systems of governance, and it may be an opportune moment to explore more modern and inclusive alternatives.
The decision of whether to have royals in the metaverse ultimately depends on the preferences and aspirations of the virtual community. It would require a careful consideration of the benefits, drawbacks, and cultural significance attached to the institution of royalty. As the metaverse continues to develop and evolve, it will be fascinating to see how discussions around governance, representation, and tradition shape the virtual world.