Billy Sim

The essay expressed very valid points when it comes to technology and identity. It made clear that this generation is looking more and more into technological entertainment as a means of escapism and ultimately a way to discover themselves. Just the fact the author looked to The Sims as a means of discovering something about himself seems a bit ludicrous, but the logic behind it is perfectly understandable. I mean, who wouldn't want to look at their own daily rituals and actions from a third person perspective? Throughout the rest of the essay, the author is able to distinguish harsh personality differences between his pseudo-character and his real self. It's funny how the author is able to discover so much about himself not through similarities, but differences. However, the most profound realization that is made in the article is the realization that the only thing that made his Sim character 'happy' was being emancipated. The author came to the conclusion that his Sim character was ultimately just as unhappy as he was, and 'deployed actualization'. In comparing the author and his Sim, they were both just as longing for a reason to live. They were just waiting for their own emancipations from the materialism and society as a whole; virtual, or real. Through the rejection of society, comes a free-will to think whatever crosses your mind or do whatever you feel. Without the rules of society, you are able to be what you've always longed for; to be you.