'Second Life' - Taking The Virtual Economy to Another Level

'Second Life' is an online 3D digital world where its 4 million+ registered users create their Avatar (online virtual persona) and explore this virtual world meeting people, playing games, shopping and even buying virtual land which allows them to open a business, build their own virtual paradise, and more!  In fact, one woman made $1 million buying and selling virtual Second life land. 

Second Life was started by Linden Labs of California, USA and now literally boasts its own economy (currency, land values, economic data).

The buzz and potential around the site is beginning to sound like that of Google a few years ago.  Businessess are actually buying virtual islands to promote their brands, products and services.  IBM has now acquired 24 Second Life "Islands." Other big companies with a presence include General Motors, Toyota Motors, Dell, Cisco Systems, Sun Microsystems and Reuters Group.

Invariably many Muslims may shy away from such a site by asking, “How distracting is such an indulgance from the realities of life?”  No doubt much immoral activity such as virtual second affairs etc. happen.  These do not reflect Muslim values. I have had interesting debates on this with friends and family.  Is it better to stay away from SecondLife or should it be seen as an opportunity to engage and foster good values?

As a business opportunity - with 4 million virtual residents and an amazing array of innovative marketing options, 'Second Life' just cannot be ignored.  If in the process, good values can be communicated and supported then better yet.  In some ways it’s not too different from the real world.