Policy Innovations The central address for a fairer globalization

A publication of the Carnegie Council

Text Size: A A

Understanding Islam through Virtual Worlds

With Joshua S. Fouts, Rita J. King, Evan O'Neil

Thursday, January 29, 2009 06:00 PM to 07:30 PM

Understanding Islam through Virtual Worlds

Description:
Carnegie Council Senior Fellows Joshua S. Fouts and Rita J. King will present findings from their Understanding Islam through Virtual Worlds project. After a year of exploring digital Islamic communities, Fouts and King conclude that engaging with people in virtual worlds who self-identify as Muslim can be part of a broader public diplomacy strategy to foster inclusive perspectives on religion, society, and coexistence.

Virtual platforms, while they involve real people, do not involve physical contact, making them a useful medium to explore productive responses to conflict without the threat of violence or intimidation. The U.S. government has recently taken note of these trends, as evidenced by the State Department's move toward Public Diplomacy 2.0 and the Army's presence in the virtual world of Second Life.

What are the responsibilities of these actors in virtual communities? What prospects do virtual worlds offer for peaceful intercultural understanding and creative growth among nations?

Fouts and King will show a brief video documentary of their explorations on the diplomatic frontier, and Iran's top hip hop artist, YAS, has generously offered to perform a couple tracks. Policy Innovations Managing Editor Evan O'Neil will moderate. Wine reception to follow.

Location:
Global Policy Innovations
Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs
170 East 64th Street
New York, NY 10065-7478

(212) 838-4120
(212) 752-2432 - Fax

Map: Click Here (opens a new window)

Contact:
This event is free and open to the public. RSVPs are FULLY BOOKED. Please join the waiting list:

gpievents@cceia.org