Virtual Capitol Hill !!!!!!!!

The emergence of the entertaining game “Second life” in the virtual world, has led to various controversies over whether it would distract its users from the real life instead of amusing them. However, what many people didn’t expect from “Second life” is the fact that it could possibly become an arena where social and political activists try to persuade the public to stand for their goals and causes.In the close study project “A better world in second life”, a virtual anti-war protest is organized by a progressive group in front of virtual Capitol Hill drawing more than 120 avatars. Who are calling for the end of the Iraq War and promoting peace throughout the world.What interests me the most about this activist project is the fact that it drew as many as 120 people to be present and protesting virtually, with anti-war and anti-Bush signs and slogans. Which in my view is disappointing and an unfortunate waste of time.Not that I think expressing your freedom of speech or protesting against the war is a waste of energy, but the fact that it is being done through “Second life” is what disturbs me. I strongly doubt and believe that such virtual activism will lead to any significant change of war policy or even affect real life events, which is the most important thing to achieve in terms of activism. If only those 120 people could duplicate their efforts in front real Capitol hill, maybe and I emphasize maybe there could be significant results.From my perspective, I find that global warming activist groups such as “wecansoveit.org” are a great example of a growingly effective and influential assembly. This organization has over 2 million members and is actively working in the REAL WORLD to raise more awareness about the climate crisis issue, and the proof of its success can be sensed by the various change in governmental policies throughout the world from raising caps on carbon emissions and promoting hybrid and electrical car technologies.That’s what I consider effective activism.