Cyborgs And Their Role In Virtuality

In simplistic terms, a Cyborg is a cybernetic organism; that has enhanced abilities due to technology. While cyborgs are commonly thought of as mammals, they can be any kind of organism.

Fictional cyborgs are portrayed as a synthesis of organic and synthetic parts. Cyborgs have attracted wide debate as to the difference between human and machine as concerning morality, free will, and empathy.

Fictional cyborgs may be represented as visibly mechanical [Star Trek]; or as almost indistinguishable from humans [Cylons in Battlestar Galactica].

There remains societial discomfort towards these fictional portrayals, with the increasing reliance upon technology, when used in ways that seemingly threaten free will.

Real cyborgs are more frequently people who use cybernetic technology to repair or overcome the physical and mental constraints of their bodies.

Cyborgs And Second Life

Second Life is a three dimensional online, virtual world.

This video explores the use of Cyborgs in Second Life and how they relate to the cuting edge of social evolution, touching on many of the societal concerns about the merging of reality with virtuality.

Building Your Own Cyborg

And if you really have to...you can build y our own Cyborg, using only a PVC coupler, a coin tray, thin orange tubing, blue flash controllers, silver bubble wrap, duct tape, a rolodex, and costume jewelry. Watch as Erik constructs a rather cool robotic arm and eye-patch scanner. [2:32]