Mapping of the ethical Issues in XR-overview of Ethical Frameworks: A Scoping Review
The use of immersive technologies such as virtual, augmented, mixed reality and the Metaverse raises many issues of ethical concern.
Last updated
The use of immersive technologies such as virtual, augmented, mixed reality and the Metaverse raises many issues of ethical concern.
Last updated
Authors: Shereen Cox, Ellen Svarverud, Jonathan Adams, Alina Kadlubsky, Rosemarie DLC Bernabe, Rigmor C. Baraas
Publication Date: 25 April 2023
Link:
Keywords: Privacy, Informed Consent, XR Governance, Digital Justice, Human Well-being, Ethical Codes, Industry Guidelines, Inclusivity, Safety Standards, Immersive Tech Regulation.
Type: Articles/Reports
The use of immersive technologies such as virtual, augmented, mixed reality and the Metaverse raises many issues of ethical concern. The various ethical issues, if left unaddressed, may impact human wellbeing over time. Immersive technologies are used in entertainment, commerce, education, health and the military. Subsequently, there is a broad spectrum of users with various degrees of competencies and vulnerabilities. Special attention would be regarding the long-term effect of immersive technologies on children and the lack of consideration of inclusivity for all persons in society. Several publications have highlighted ethical issues related to immersive technologies, and some have sought to address these issues by proposing solutions or approaches in the form of frameworks, codes of conduct or best practices. This review examined grey and white literature between 2000-2023 to identify the various proposed or adopted ethical frameworks, codes of conduct or best practices for immersive technologies. The research method was qualitative and adopted Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review methodological approach. A total of 28 papers were selected for in-depth analysis. Approximately 70% of the selected papers were published between 2020 and 2022. Using an inductive thematic analysis method, six fundamental values and twenty-two corresponding principles were generated. The main values are respect for persons, well-being, safety, integrity and trust, justice, and responsiveness. The dominant principles noted in the papers are privacy, informed consent, responsibility, transparency, and freedom. The issuers of the papers were predominantly academicians. The normative approaches to addressing ethical issues are organised into four domains: society and governance, industry, research/academic organisations, and individuals. General recommendations are as follows: 1) the application of existing laws or guidelines to address legal issues with immersive technologies, 2) industry practitioners should adopt inclusive approaches to design and development, 3) researchers should minimise potential harm for participants, and 4) individuals, i.e., users of immersive technologies should be empowered and sincere in their use of a virtual space concerning identity and conduct.