Today I watched a Discovery Science documentary about Second Life. It looks like more and more people are joining this game and even making a living out of it. It was a general presentation of the platform with a fine interview from the Linden Labs founder, Philip Rosedale.

Why people make real money out of Second Life? Because of the other people. This is the way that economy works. Suppose that you wake up in the game with the default clothing, skin and shape. If you entered the game it means that you want to interact with other people and socialize. This socialization leads to awareness. Being aware of your looks, clothing and other stuff brings up needs that you have also in the real life. And this means that you are willing to pay for clothes and other stuff.

That’s the main reason people buy stuff in Second Life. So the people make the big thing rolling. Without those social needs Second Life would present no interest whatsoever.