Metaverse and Diversity

Abstract

A recurring theme in the public debates is the lack of diversity among the developers and decision-makers in infrastructural personnel, in the big data used, and in software implementations. Metaverse appeared as a core concept as part of a cluster of other terms such as Web3 and blockchain. Many businesses and brands aim to participate in an emerging metaverse scene, and diversity issues are at the forefront of early attempts in the imaginaries and practices of the metaverse. Imaginaries are essential because the metaverse is growing through interrelated technologies such as virtual reality and augmented reality, as well as new developments in artificial intelligence and blockchain applications. It is an ongoing project, and all may shape the outcome, from decision-makers to authorities and audiences. As a keen follower of journalistic talk, corporate and institutional discourses, and industry leaders, in this chapter, I intend to demonstrate what types of issues concerning diversity debates take place in the early days of metaverse.