Critical Hit!: Using Virtual Reality to Promote Philosophy and Critical Thinking
Description/Abstract/Artist Statement
The Critical Hit! project uses cutting-edge virtual reality technologies to introduce users philosophical thinking about ethical dilemmas. For this presentation, participants will play through a VR version of the trolley problem philosophical thought experiment, a life-and-death ethical dilemma. This experience is followed by a debriefing conversation with other participants and a facilitator. Reflecting on one’s own beliefs and interrogating those beliefs by engaging with diverse alternative viewpoints is at the foundation of much work in the humanities. Philosophers use thought experiments to aid in such reflection and interrogation. For example, thought experiments can reveal tensions in a person’s concept of “right” or “good” by introducing them to alternative ways of thinking. Once a tension has been revealed, a person is better positioned to adjust their thinking and engage in more constructive conversations across diverse belief sets going forward. This process of reflection and interrogation, however, can be arduous for the uninitiated. Presenting thought experiments in VR allows a general audience to explore philosophical ideas in fun, safe, and controlled environments in order to enjoy the benefits of self-discovery and critical thinking.
Critical Hit!: Using Virtual Reality to Promote Philosophy and Critical Thinking
The Critical Hit! project uses cutting-edge virtual reality technologies to introduce users philosophical thinking about ethical dilemmas. For this presentation, participants will play through a VR version of the trolley problem philosophical thought experiment, a life-and-death ethical dilemma. This experience is followed by a debriefing conversation with other participants and a facilitator. Reflecting on one’s own beliefs and interrogating those beliefs by engaging with diverse alternative viewpoints is at the foundation of much work in the humanities. Philosophers use thought experiments to aid in such reflection and interrogation. For example, thought experiments can reveal tensions in a person’s concept of “right” or “good” by introducing them to alternative ways of thinking. Once a tension has been revealed, a person is better positioned to adjust their thinking and engage in more constructive conversations across diverse belief sets going forward. This process of reflection and interrogation, however, can be arduous for the uninitiated. Presenting thought experiments in VR allows a general audience to explore philosophical ideas in fun, safe, and controlled environments in order to enjoy the benefits of self-discovery and critical thinking.