Avatarization as a mechanism of identity transformation in immersive environments

Abstract

Urgency of the research. The article substantiates that the rapid development of metaverses and the implementation of immersive virtual reality technologies actualize the issue of a radical transformation of the structure of human selfhood. The avatar becomes not just a technical mediator, but an integral part of the individual's digital existence, requiring a thorough philosophical reflection on the processes of identification and self-presentation in virtual environments.

Target setting. The main focus is on the analysis of the phenomenon of avatarization as a multifaceted process of constructing and representing the "Self" in the digital space. The fundamental contradiction between the physical corporeality of the subject and their virtual image is investigated, which leads to the emergence of new forms of identity that have no analogues in traditional socio-cultural experience.

Actual scientific researches and issues analysis. The work considers the classical works of J. Baudrillard and S. Turkle. Particular importance is given to 2022–2024 studies on the risks of cognitive manipulation in metaverses. The methodological basis consists of the philosophical-anthropological approach and the phenomenological method.

The research objective. The aim is to explicate the ontological status of the avatar as a "digital body" and reveal the mechanisms of transformation of the user's identity. The scientific novelty lies in the systematization of the anthropological risks of the digital twin and the substantiation of normative imperatives to protect subjective integrity.

The statement of basic materials. The concept of the "digital body" and the specifics of the Proteus effect manifestation, which confirms the avatar's ability to influence the subject's behavior and self-perception, are studied. It is substantiated that avatarization allows an individual to experiment with identity, creating hybrid forms of self-consciousness. The risks of personality dissociation and loss of authenticity associated with the fragmentation of experience in immersive environments are analyzed.

Conclusions. It is proved that the avatar is a fundamental mechanism for reformatting identity, creating a new hybrid reality. The necessity of developing ethical standards to prevent personality dissociation in the conditions of total digitalization is substantiated.