Our world might be getting smaller, thanks to technology, but virtual worlds and games are booming. Millions of people venture daily into these new and constantly evolving landscapes where they can conquer mythical armies, slay dragons and embark on other fantastical quests.
In the virtual world of Second Life, you can painlessly remake yourself as a slim and blemish-free avatar, chat up strangers, shop, or start a business and make (or lose) real money. A cover of Business Week featured the woman who became the first millionaire by buying and selling virtual property.
Some of the world's biggest companies are staking territory in Second Life. They don't want to miss out on what's touted as the Next Big Thing the Internet has to offer-some claim Second Life will be more far-reaching than YouTube or MySpace.
You Only Live Twice explores the bizarre frontiers of virtual worlds-taking a skeptical, sometimes-humorous look at their heavily marketed promise and their pitfalls. Viewers will see the inside world of an avatar and meet the key players who make worlds like Second Life go around. Do real-world laws apply in Second Life, and if so, whose? Are virtual worlds the future for shopping and marketing? And why are some psychiatrists and social researchers so keen on experiments in virtual worlds?
click here to see where to watch or .
Ready to Watch CBC Wild Docs, Season 2008, Episode 3?