Concept Of Maya And Its Relevance To Virtual Realities In Social Media
                     Concept Of Maya And Its 
Relevance To Virtual Realities In 
Social Media
Chaitanya Kumari
Writes informational articles on common ethics, 
sanathana dharma, dharma meaning in 
english, dharma in hinduism, duties common 
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Maya refers to a belief in Hindu philosophy that posits an illusory 
state of reality. With ongoing technological advancements, a more 
pronounced form of virtual reality is emerging within social media, 
further blurring the line between reality and simulation. The paper 
examines the deep-rooted similarities between the age-old concept 
of Maya and the more recent reality called social media virtualism.
By focusing on how Maya influences perception, raises ethical 
concerns, and offers potential for positive engagement in virtual 
realms, the article explores the intersection of illusion and reality in 
the modern digital age.
Introduction to the concept of Maya
Maya generally means illusion or false perception of reality in 
ancient Indian philosophy. Maya refers to several ways by which its 
practice can deceive people’s perception and generate a distance 
between truth and the perception of it in various spiritual traditions 
of the world. In ancient Indian culture (more specifically, Hinduism 
and Buddhism), it refers to that which says that “worlds” do not 
exist and distract or delude the seeker from reaching higher 
spiritual realities.
When one comes to know about Maya, the person starts his 
journey toward understanding the truth or reality beyond the 
identity merely visible. It teaches that reality shrouds like a 
deceitful veil behind it, which covers up the reality of existence. 
Therefore, it urges us to peer below and reconsider everything 
that we consult as known concerning this world.
Understanding Maya in Eastern & Western Philosophies
The term Maya refers to that aspect of the world which in a 
philosophical sense is understood as an illusion or deception. In 
Eastern philosophies, most prominently in Hinduism and 
Buddhism, Maya refers to the concept that the physical universe 
is an ephemeral illusion obscuring the ultimate experience of 
spirit and, in turn, engendering bondage and suffering. Most 
Western philosophies are concerned more with wresting 
objective measurability out of reality and then affirming a more 
materialistic take on it.
However, some Western thinkers such as Plato accepted aspects 
of illusion in perception, indicating that something deeper than 
mere appearance exists beyond the supposed appearance of 
things. 
Virtual Realities in Social Media and Parallels with Maya
Social networking sites have become virtual spaces for meeting 
and socializing, exchanging information, and constructing digital 
identities that are constantly visible or connected to the real world. 
Virtual reality technology further deepens this immersion, 
challenging traditional perceptions of reality by adding new layers 
of experience within the digital realm.
maya-influence-social-media
As Maya teaches us to doubt the reality we perceive, so do the 
online identities in social media construct personas that are not 
fully comprehensive representations of people, illustrating that 
illusionary nature created by digital presence. Our perception 
shapes how we experience the realities of the virtual environment: 
how we engage within these digital spaces and the personas we 
adopt become determined by our perceptions.
Impact of Maya on Perception in Social Media
On social media, Maya shapes how individuals perceive themselves 
and construct their identities. The temptation to construct an 
idealized version of oneself often compels individuals to present 
themselves to the virtual world in a way that aligns with this ideal, 
leading to common feelings of inadequacy and comparison.
Virtual experiences encountered in social media environments can 
feel profoundly real in psychological terms. Some individuals may 
even engage in escapism, leading to a blurring of illusion and 
reality within these immersive digital spaces. Such experiences can 
significantly impact mental health and emotional responses, 
highlighting the importance of mindful consumption.
Ethical Considerations in Virtual Realities and Maya
Privacy and Consent in Digital Spaces
With the advancement of virtual realities, it is essential to address 
ethical issues related to privacy and consent in digital spaces. 
These concerns typically involve the collection and use of personal 
data, manipulation, user consent, and their broader implications for 
responsible and ethical engagement within virtual environments.
Addressing Issues of Authenticity and Deception
Navigating the Maya for virtual realities raises ethical dilemmas 
regarding authenticity and deception. Whether it is deepfakes or 
something more innocuous like a curated profile page, the 
distinctions between the categories of truth and illusion can 
become quite blurred, making a case for the critical need for 
transparency, authenticity, and critical evaluation concerning the 
online experience.
Harnessing Maya for Positive Social Media Engagement
While Maya may present obstacles in social networking, it also 
provides a potential space for positive interaction. One can use the 
virtual realities to create empathy, for immersion in the other’s 
shoes can boost compassion and connection in an ever-digitizing 
landscape.
In a world shaped by Maya, which can create illusions and distort 
facts, authentic and genuine connections are crucial for fostering 
transparency within the framework of virtual spaces. Meaningful 
conversations and straightforwardness can layer these 
relationships beyond social media, enriching the latter’s experience 
without the facade of sincerity.
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