Virtual Lives: A Reference Handbook (Contemporary World Issues)

This book is the THE source for information on virtual worlds, covering every aspect of this intriguing and fast-changing social practice and the technologies upon which it rests.

• A detailed chronology detailing inspirations, precursors, developments, and controversies related to virtual worlds

• Tables of data about users of virtual worlds

• An annotated list of private, nonprofit, and government organizations pertinent to virtual worlds

• Biographical sketches of authors, developers, researchers, policymakers, and notable virtual world users

• A glossary of scores of relevant terms related to virtual worlds' function and use

• A bibliography of additional resources readers can consult to learn even more about virtual worlds