Received: 8 February 2024 / Accepted: 21 February 2024 | Alesia Zhuk
This paper explores the ethical implications of AI in the Metaverse, a virtual world encompassing immersive experiences and social interactions. It examines real-world case studies from platforms like Horizon Worlds, Decentraland, Roblox, Sansar, and Rec Room to highlight recurring concerns related to content moderation, privacy, and data protection. The paper emphasizes the need for a human-AI hybrid approach to balance creative freedom and user safety, transparent communication, and user data control. It also stresses the importance of promoting inclusivity and diversity through transparent governance, diverse representation, and collaboration with ethics experts. By addressing these challenges, the paper aims to pave the way for a responsible and user-centric Metaverse that maximizes potential while safeguarding user well-being and rights. The discussion covers bias and discrimination, privacy and data security, transparency and explainability, and legal and regulatory considerations, providing recommendations for ethical guidelines and best practices. Real-world case studies from platforms like Decentraland, Roblox, and Sansar illustrate the practical implications and potential solutions to ethical challenges in the Metaverse.This paper explores the ethical implications of AI in the Metaverse, a virtual world encompassing immersive experiences and social interactions. It examines real-world case studies from platforms like Horizon Worlds, Decentraland, Roblox, Sansar, and Rec Room to highlight recurring concerns related to content moderation, privacy, and data protection. The paper emphasizes the need for a human-AI hybrid approach to balance creative freedom and user safety, transparent communication, and user data control. It also stresses the importance of promoting inclusivity and diversity through transparent governance, diverse representation, and collaboration with ethics experts. By addressing these challenges, the paper aims to pave the way for a responsible and user-centric Metaverse that maximizes potential while safeguarding user well-being and rights. The discussion covers bias and discrimination, privacy and data security, transparency and explainability, and legal and regulatory considerations, providing recommendations for ethical guidelines and best practices. Real-world case studies from platforms like Decentraland, Roblox, and Sansar illustrate the practical implications and potential solutions to ethical challenges in the Metaverse.