The growing number of toy-themed virtual worlds aimed at young
people risks undermining the basic human values we wish to
instil in children. Many children are keen computer gamers So
said industry veteran Lord Puttnam opening a London conference
devoted to discussing virtual worlds. He feared that all
children will learn from these virtual spaces is that they are
first and foremost consumers. He urged creators to build more
moral virtual worlds that instil in children the values that
societies need. Oscar-winning film-maker Lord Puttnam gave the
opening keynote speech at the Virtual Worlds Forum held in
London from 23-26 October. In his speech Lord Puttnam voiced
fears about the many game worlds that have sprung up which tie
access to the virtual world to the purchase of a toy. Webkinz,
Funkeys, BarbieGirls, TyGirlz and many others are all virtual
worlds created and run by toy makers. "Are we absolutely sure
that this is the very best we can offer young people?" he asked.
"Do we really want them to think of