The Ethics of Immersion: A Scoping Review of VR and AR Technologies

Abstract

Immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality (MR), and extended reality (XR) are rapidly evolving, presenting significant opportunities for enhancing user experiences. Nevertheless, their widespread adoption introduces substantial ethical challenges that necessitate thorough exploration. This research conducts a comprehensive investigation into the ethical considerations associated with these technologies, employing a methodical literature review and synthesis approach. Utilizing the PRISMA-ScR framework alongside the KJ method, this study analyzes 34 pertinent articles, uncovering 189 unique ethical concepts that are subsequently organized into 15 coherent categories. The analysis illuminates critical ethical concerns, including the protection of user rights within virtual spaces, the dichotomy between real and virtual worlds, the imperative for inclusive and equitable access, the necessity to ensure user safety and well-being, and the call for the establishment of robust ethical governance frameworks. The derived findings propose a future research agenda that accentuates the importance of navigating ethical dichotomies, enhancing inclusivity, advocating for user-centric development practices, instituting strong governance measures, and bolstering ethical awareness. By tackling these identified ethical dimensions, the present study seeks to promote a judicious and ethical advancement of immersive technologies, aiming to enable society to leverage their profound benefits responsibly while adhering to ethical standards and mitigating potential risks.

Keywords: VR, XR, AR, Inclusive Design, Ethical Design

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004617