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Blame Quote by Jonathan Gottschall

“Commentators frequently blame MMORPGs for an increasing sense of isolation in modern life. But virtual worlds are less a cause of that isolation than a response to it. Virtual worlds give back what has been scooped out of modern life. The virtual world is in important ways more authentically human…” quote by Jonathan Gottschall
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““Commentators frequently blame MMORPGs for an increasing sense of isolation in modern life. But virtual worlds are less a cause of that isolation than a response to it. Virtual worlds give back what has been scooped out of modern life. The virtual world is in important ways more authentically human than the real world. It gives us back community, a feeling of competence, and a sense of being an important person whom people depend on.””

Jonathan Gottschall

About This Quote

Source Essay: “Why We Play Video Games” by Jonathan Gottschall, 2012

Virtual worlds respond to modern isolation by providing authentic community, competence, and purpose, often more genuinely than real life.

In simple terms: Online games give back community, competence, and purpose.

Key Takeaway

Seek meaningful connections, online or offline.

Themes

community competence purpose isolation authenticity

Mood

reflective hopeful critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • loneliness
  • team projects
  • skill development
  • leadership
  • mental health

Key Concepts

social identity psychology digital culture

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance online community with offline relationships?
  • What real-life needs does your gaming fulfill?
A Different Perspective

Virtual worlds can also deepen escapism and neglect real-world responsibilities.

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