Virtual worlds and the future of the Metaverse
Kühne Logistics University President Prof. Dr. Andreas Kaplan has published a new book exploring the growing influence of virtual worlds and immersive digital environments on society, education, and business. In The Virtual Universe, Kaplan examines how technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and extended reality are converging to create new forms of interaction and digital experiences. He also analyzes critical issues arising from these spaces, such as governance, privacy, and identity.
Exploring the evolution of immersive digital environments
Reflecting on the book's origins in an interview with the Columbia University Press Blog, Kaplan explains that the development of virtual environments called for a clearer understanding of the concept itself. “I felt it was time to offer a clear and memorable definition of the Metaverse: an immersive, independent, and interconnected virtual social universe,” he says. The book looks at how these digital ecosystems may evolve, how we can imagine the connection of individuals in these above-reality scenarios, and what they could mean for institutions and organizations.
Published by Columbia University Press, The Virtual Universe builds on Kaplan’s long-standing research on digitalization and the relationship between technology and society. A pioneer in virtual world research, Kaplan has revisited the subject throughout two decades – from Second Life to Zuckerberg’s Metaverse – and has addressed topics such as digital identity, governance in virtual spaces, and the future role of human interaction in immersive environments.
Connecting research, technology, and education at KLU
Kaplan also reflects on the implications of virtual worlds for higher education and leadership. As universities continue to adapt to technological changes, immersive environments may create new opportunities for learning and collaboration, facilitating more global exchange. “Instead of relying solely on slides, educators can recreate complex real-world contexts. For example, a finance class could simulate a trading floor to illustrate market dynamics as they unfold”, says Kaplan. These themes closely connect with the content focus at KLU, where innovation and digital transformation remain important areas across research and teaching activities.
With The Virtual Universe, Kaplan keeps contributing to international conversations about how digital ecosystems are influencing management, communication, and decision-making processes across industries, while his guidance at KLU reinforces the university’s position as a place where these forward-looking ideas are explored and discussed.
More information
- KAPLAN A.M. (2026) The Virtual Universe – Unlocking the Possibilities of the Metaverse, Columbia University Press, New York, ISBN 978-0-231-21768-2.
- Interview on the CUP Blog
- Profile Prof. Dr. Andreas Kaplan
- Innovative teaching at KLU with VR simulations
- Prof. Dr. Andreas Kaplan in the KLU Knowledge Blog: Virtual Worlds' Second Life and Dive"
