Overview

A unique and highly controversial defense of the possibilities in our new technologies to expand our idea of what is real. Zhai's explanation of the role significance of virtual reality is eye-openeing and completely original.

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9780847689835

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Reviews

Lately, this reviewer has become skeptical about books that take a philosophical view of artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Get Real is a refreshing change, from an author with credentials in both philosophy and engineering. In six very concise and well-written chapters he performs a philosophical exploration of the world of virtual reality. . . . Zhai has developed a book that is sure to be well received in both the philosophical and computing communities.--J. Beidler Choice

The book is a philosophical joyride supported by solid scholarship . . .The author combines analysis with insight into things that matter . . . First-rate . . . written with clarity, verve, and insight. -- Michael Hein, author of <I>The Metaphysics of Virtual Reality<I> Get Real has the potential to become a landmark in both philosophy and virtual reality. The clearly written text progresses systematically through one hard issue after another. Whether or not one agrees with all of the conclusions, this is a book to be studied and then restudied. * Vr In The Schools * . . . fascinating. The various levels are particularly intriguing as one thinks about the various ways one could incorporate them in an experience, and the whole question of 'real.' -- David W. Ellis, president and director of Science Museum (Boston) . . . thought provoking and original. * Electronics Now * Get Realis a philosophical tour de force, an astonishing and articulate work that is as challenging as it is engaging. * Midwest Book Review * Based on research and logical analysis, the author offers a reasoned investigation into the way new technology is changing the very notion of reality and makes an original, provocative defense of the concept of virtual reality. * Baker and Taylor Forecast * ...nearly every page is brimming with challenging philosophical ideas. ...Zhai has many creative and important insights. * Philosophy in Review * Lately, this reviewer has become skeptical about books that take a philosophical view of artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Get Real is a refreshing change, from an author with credentials in both philosophy and engineering. In six very concise and well-written chapters he performs a philosophical exploration of the world of virtual reality. . . . Zhai has developed a book that is sure to be well received in both the philosophical and computing communities. * CHOICE * Get Real takes a smart, lucid, joyful look at invented realities that just may be more real than any of us dares to believe. Get Real takes a smart, lucid, joyful look at invented realities that just may be more real than any of us dares to believe. * Trix-Mix Magazine * The book appeals to both the intellect and the imagination and is a worthwhile one. * Independent Publisher *

Lately, this reviewer has become skeptical about books that take a philosophical view of artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Get Real is a refreshing change, from an author with credentials in both philosophy and engineering. In six very concise and well-written chapters he performs a philosophical exploration of the world of virtual reality. . . . Zhai has developed a book that is sure to be well received in both the philosophical and computing communities.--J. Beidler Choice

Author Information

Philip Zhai has degrees in both philosophy and engineering, and is a teacher of philosophy. He is the author of The Radical Choice and Moral Theory (Kluwer).

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