# The concept “freedom” in a virtual reality of the information society

## Overview

**Authors:** Narine Wiegel, Valentina Chernikova, Elena Sergodeeva, Ivan Gulyak

**Publication Date:** 28 November 2019

**Link:** <https://www.shs-conferences.org/articles/shsconf/abs/2019/13/shsconf_appsconf2019_03003/shsconf_appsconf2019_03003.html>

**Keywords:** digital freedom, consumer culture, ethical instability, social loneliness, VR as escape, personal autonomy, shifting values, existentialism, psychological impact, societal norms

**Type:** Peer-Reviewed Journals/White Papers

## Summary

The article explores the crisis in Western culture, focusing on the rise of a "civilization of consumption" that limits freedom of choice through shifting values. The contradiction between traditional and global value systems results in situational ethics. This instability leads to "social loneliness," and virtual reality is presented as an escape, offering genuine freedom. The authors trace the evolution of the concept of freedom, from ancient slavery to existentialism and 20th-century synergetics, culminating in the unique freedom experienced in virtual reality.