Ethical discussion on the identity of digital humans in the metaverse era

Abstract

As the metaverse, recognized for its potential in various fields, grows, the technologies associated with it also develop. Therefore, this study intends to explore the ethical implications of Digital Human technology, one of the core technologies of the metaverse era. First, it examines how the concept of Digital Human is being established, what are the research trends, and how it relates to the metaverse. Second, the essential characteristics of the Digital Human are divided into four categories: 1) Digital Double, 2) Digital Single, 3) Digital Subject, and 4) Digital Object, according to ground and identity, and based on facts and non-facts. In addition, the ADVISE model is proposed as an ethical assessment model based on six major ethical standards (-falsity, discrimination, violence, invasion of privacy, sexuality, and dependence) in relation to Digital Human.