Virtual Self

The video explores the concept of avatars, digital representations of ourselves in cyberspace, and their potential to influence real-world behavior. Jeremy Bailenson's research at Stanford University shows that avatars can impact decisions, fitness, and social preferences. By altering an avatar's appearance, individuals may adopt behaviors aligned with their virtual persona. The video also highlights the importance of avatar resemblance to its creator and suggests that avatars will play a significant role in future online interactions.

What is the primary function of avatars in cyberspace?

• To act as security measures

• To represent electronic personae

• To provide entertainment

• To serve as digital assistants

How did Jeremy Bailenson's research demonstrate the impact of avatars on financial behavior?

• By using avatars to encourage saving over spending

• By showing avatars can predict stock market trends

• By creating avatars that manage bank accounts

• By designing avatars that simulate shopping experiences

In the fitness study, what was the observed effect of using an avatar that resembles the user?

• Users were indifferent to the avatar's appearance

• Users exercised less after seeing their avatar

• Users focused more on diet than exercise

• Users exercised more after seeing their avatar run

What conclusion did researchers reach about people's preferences for others?

• People prefer avatars that look nothing like them

• People are indifferent to the appearance of avatars

• People tend to prefer others who resemble themselves

• People favor avatars that resemble celebrities

What future role do avatars potentially have according to Bailenson?

• Avatars will only be used in gaming

• Avatars will significantly influence online behavior

• Avatars will become obsolete

• Avatars will replace human interaction entirely