Gaming: Dangerous or Beneficial? | Sarah Malanowski

Brain in a Vat

Should we consider gaming as potentially addictive? Sarah Malanowski argues gaming is much like any other beneficial hobby: it provides a sense of community, challenge, and personal growth. She argues gaming is unfairly stigmatized, and should instead be seen as a valuable tool for growing character.

Link to Sarah’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Why-Its-OK-Be-Gamer/dp/1032312130

[00:00] Introduction to the Discussion

[00:06] Thought Experiment: The New Hobby

[02:51] Cam's Story: A Real-Life Testimonial

[04:23] The Four Reasons for Gaming

[05:37] Contrasting Perspectives on Gaming

[06:03] The Physical vs. Virtual Social Connection

[07:59] The Ethics of Hobbies: Grave Robbing vs. Gaming

[09:49] Violence in Video Games: A Longstanding Debate

[16:35] Gaming Addiction: A Clinical Perspective

[20:25] Gaming's Potential Positive Impact

[27:55] The Stigma Around Gaming

[30:02] Gaming and Addiction: A Philosophical Perspective

[36:28] Evaluating the Worth of Different Games

[39:12] Ethics and Morality in Gaming

[43:26] Comparing Gaming to Other Activities

[52:43] Intrinsic Value of Gaming

[55:41] Conclusion