In an era of virtual reality, simulations offered to viewers are often touted as real experiences, but remain separate and distinct from actual reality. In the realm of entertainment, the advantages are obvious as physical limitations are removed… possibilities almost endless. Television shows, movies, computer generated games and activities can be based on extraordinary and fantastic situations that transcend the laws of physics and logical structure. Since an environment can be created without the need for additional physical or social interaction, isolation and separation from the corporeal world and its consequences is both an advantage and danger for those who invest vast amounts of time and energy in a virtual existence.
Star Trek: The Animated Series envisioned the concept of a “holodeck” as early as the 1970s. Followed by appearances in the series, Star Trek: The Next Generation, the holodeck user was totally immersed in an interactive program indistinguishable from the real world. Without reference to the electronic and digital signature of the program, there was little to separate the purported reality from voyeurism and hypothetical circumstances. In some instances, use of the holodeck served an important and valuable function of learning and relaxation, while in others, the danger of too much reliance on its alternate reality was also revealed.
Although the word “reality” is used in combination with the term virtual and is purported to convey a sense of importance and substance to what may be viewed in cyberspace, the truth of this depends on the context of its use. When communication is enhanced by virtual meetings and discussions, the effect of physical separation, even when the experience is enhanced by multi-dimensional immersion and interaction, is limiting.
As the COVID pandemic swirls around us for a third year, the technology associated with virtual reality has become more prominent and pervasive. The sight of people glued to electronic devises while walking, shopping, relaxing, even driving (?), is common, but raises the question of the strength of their attachment to the surrounding environment. Do these people acknowledge the atmosphere surrounding them? Or are they oblivious to all but what appears on a screen and in their ear buds? Does virtual become the sum total of reality?
The above questions have a direct impact on the basic process of democracy. Democracy at its most basic, local level, depends on the interest and influence of citizens and residents on those elected to represent them in political discussions and decisions. Without clear guidance from constituents, it is difficult for officials to gauge the tenor of the electorate, relying instead on the loudest and most strident. In some cases, this may represent the view of many others, but sometimes it does not.
In a technological environment defined by computer programs, camera angles and artificial horizons, a complete picture of who and what is portrayed can be skewed even if not purposeful. The answer to such limitations has been personal contact between the governed and the government. It is through representation and presence that, even without speaking, constituents can show their interest and support or disapproval in a clear and unequivocal manner.
Many council meetings have, understandably, been removed from in-person attendance for the past years. Fear of spreading COVID virus is real, but it is now time to consider the impact on our democratic system of government. Without adequate input, attendance and review of what transpires at virtual meetings is limited; separation between the elected and electors is increased. Dependence on meeting attendance through computer or television broadcast can be uncertain and, if uploads and replays are delayed, review of discussions, comments and decisions unavailable.
With deference to the inherent problems associated with the ongoing pandemic, it is time for our councils to reinstate, limited in-person meetings. Adequate precautions can be taken: provide adequate ventilation, limit attendance to fully vaccinated, require masks and, open alternative rooms for spillover attendance. Democracy is a full contact job, not virtual.