1. Introduction -- 2. Artificial Intelligence and Going Beyond Cherished Assumptions -- 3. Reality Nostalgia: Musings on the Post-Information, Post-Truth Society -- 4. Living With or Through Technology? -- 5. The Less-than-Novel Escapism of the Metaverse -- 6. Where Are We at? Reconsidering (Un)Reality -- 7. Conclusions.

This book examines escapist coping strategies brought about by the pace, breadth and governance of technological change. It argues that escapism manifests in various forms, ranging from nostalgia for a fantasised past of unhindered reason and agency, to progressive visions of societal and political improvement, and greater empowerment. Drawing on post-humanist theory and critical disability studies, the book also assesses how escapism should not be viewed as an unavoidable reaction to technological change, and develops a model for an ethically equitable relationship between humans and technology. It will appeal to all those interested in media and communication studies, technology studies, philosophy, governance and politics. Ignas Kalpokas is Associate Professor in the Department of Public Communication, and Senior Researcher in the V. Kavolis Institute of Transdisciplinary Research, Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania. He also holds research positions at SGH Warsaw School of Economics, Poland and LCC International University, Lithuania.