I think the problem Metaverse potentially (partially) solves is the conflict between resource consumption and available supply in consumer culture. In the 2000s

I think the problem Metaverse potentially (partially) solves is the conflict between resource consumption and available supply in consumer culture. In the 2000s there was optimism for the strength of consumer culture, ("for the first time in history there are no practical limits to consumerism."[1]) but we're now beginning to reconcile the desire for infinite growth against finite resources. Digital consumerism is a potential lifeline, as digital products are close to cost free to produce compared to real luxury goods or travel, allowing much higher numbers of people to own them. As people generally become poorer and real consumption grows out of reach, the metaverse potentially serves as a second level of prosperity and success for the have nots in the real world. Some early examples of this are Second Life, valuation of digital items like skins in games and travel and dining POV YouTubers. I think most would prefer the real deal, but if it's unavailable a fake version can be made good enough. [1]https://cup.columbia.edu/book/an-all-consuming-century/9780231113120 https://cup.columbia.edu/book/an-all-consuming-century/97802...