The MYTHSEEKER computer system. Existential variables and ethics of application

The MYTHSEEKER computer system allows a participant to experience systems of mythology, exploring and shaping his or her “personal myth”. This takes place through immersion in a virtual reality based on prior assessment by MYTHSEEKER of mythic factors in the person´s life. “Personal myth” refers to mythic life-shapes and aspirations by which a person shapes life for significant meaning and accomplishment. Mythic aspects can be “refocused” as one´s life changes in direction and circumstance. MYTHSEEKER works with mythological and spiritual systems of times bygone and present-and with future systems now emerging. Myth is a way of experiencing the world, giving meaning and shape to one´s experience. A person becomes involved with a MYTHSEEKER enactment, which is a mythic participation using visual imagery and sound in virtual reality. MYTHSEEKER works with myth at the level of one´s great purposes. This paper discusses the existential variables used by MYTHSEEKER, and suggests a code of ethics for MYTHSEEKER applications involving existential variables. It is suggested that the present approach to using existential variables, and the code of ethics, may be appropriate for virtual reality applications more generally, and could suggest a framework for these areas