<P> Virtual reality (VR) is a computer - simulated environment that can simulate physical presence in places in the real world, as well as in imaginary worlds . </P> <P> The Virtuality Continuum is a continuous scale ranging between the completely virtual, a Virtuality, and the completely real: Reality . The reality - virtuality continuum therefore encompasses all possible variations and compositions of real and virtual objects . It has been described as a concept in new media and computer science, but in fact it could be considered a matter of anthropology . The concept was first introduced by Paul Milgram . </P> <P> The area between the two extremes, where both the real and the virtual are mixed, is the so - called Mixed reality . This in turn is said to consist of both Augmented Reality, where the virtual augments the real, and Augmented virtuality, where the real augments the virtual . Cyberspace, the world's computer systems considered as an interconnected whole, can be thought of as a virtual reality; for instance, it is portrayed as such in the cyberpunk fiction of William Gibson and others . Second life and MMORPGs such as World of Warcraft are examples of artificial environments or virtual worlds (falling some way short of full virtual reality) in cyberspace . </P> <P> On the Internet, "real life" refers to life in the real world . It generally references life or consensus reality, in contrast to an environment seen as fiction or fantasy, such as virtual reality, lifelike experience, dreams, novels, or movies . Online, the acronym "IRL" stands for "in real life", with the meaning "not on the Internet". Sociologists engaged in the study of the Internet have determined that someday, a distinction between online and real - life worlds may seem "quaint", noting that certain types of online activity, such as sexual intrigues, have already made a full transition to complete legitimacy and "reality". The abbreviation "RL" stands for "real life". For example, one can speak of "meeting in RL" someone whom one has met in a chat or on an Internet forum . It may also be used to express an inability to use the Internet for a time due to "RL problems". </P>

Is a methodology based on questioning belief in an external reality