> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://library.xrguild.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://library.xrguild.org/neurotechnology-brain-tech-and-ethical-challenges/should-we-fear-the-metaverse.md). # Should We Fear the Metaverse? ## Overview **Authors:** Louis Rosenberg **Publication Date:** 22 March 2022 **Link:** **Keywords:** metaverse, virtual reality, augmented reality, corporations, misinformation, polarization, media influence, manipulation, consumer technology, digital ethics **Type:** Video ## Summary "Augmented reality pioneer Louis Rosenberg warns that the Metaverse could be far worse for society than social media. Major corporations are spending billions to bring the Metaverse to consumers. They envision a world where virtual and augmented reality will touch all aspects of our lives, from shopping and socializing to business and education. There is no doubt, the Metaverse is coming… and yes, it will be magical. But at the same time, it could greatly distort our world, spreading misinformation and polarizing society far worse than any form of media to date. It's not the technology that’s dangerous. It's the prospect that large corporations will be able to use the Metaverse to manipulate our experiences on behalf of the highest bidder, persuading us in ways that will make social media seem quaint. But it’s not too late. Louis Rosenberg explains what we need to do." --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters: ``` GET https://library.xrguild.org/neurotechnology-brain-tech-and-ethical-challenges/should-we-fear-the-metaverse.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.