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Are Virtual Video Game Economies Becoming Real?

Season 2012 Episode 20 | 5m 26s

The idea that a collection of pixels can be sold for actual money might be confusing to some, as they are neither true "objects" you can hold nor "ideas" that can be considered intellectual property. But despite the lack of tangibility, real world economies have formed around these games and real world profits are being made.

Aired: 09/17/12
Extras
The whole universe is an incredibility complex computational system. But for what purpose?
How can we explain our current fascination with zombies?
Idea Channel reflects on the benefit (or threat?) of Artificial Intelligence.
Idea Channel questions whether math is "real" or a feature of human creation.
Could eSports ever achieve this level of storytelling?
Here's an idea: a DOS attack is a weapon.
A special Idea Channel episode featuring a visit by Mike to Mr. Monfre's class.
What is it about music that makes us feel these feelings we're feeling?
Here's an idea: a tagged Instagram is more than just a photo.
An interview with Minecraft EDU's creator, Joel Levin.
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The whole universe is an incredibility complex computational system. But for what purpose?
How can we explain our current fascination with zombies?
Idea Channel reflects on the benefit (or threat?) of Artificial Intelligence.
Idea Channel questions whether math is "real" or a feature of human creation.
Could eSports ever achieve this level of storytelling?
Here's an idea: a DOS attack is a weapon.
A special Idea Channel episode featuring a visit by Mike to Mr. Monfre's class.
What is it about music that makes us feel these feelings we're feeling?
Here's an idea: a tagged Instagram is more than just a photo.
An interview with Minecraft EDU's creator, Joel Levin.