The Rise of Virtual Communities : In Conversation with Virtual World Pioneers

Uncover the fascinating history of virtual communities and how we connect to each other online.

The Rise of Virtual Communities, explores the earliest online community platforms, mapping the technological evolutions, and the individuals, that have shaped the culture of the internet. Read in-depth interviews with the visionary founders of iconic online platforms, and uncover the history of virtual communities and how the industry has developed over time.

Featuring never-before told stories, this exploration introduces new ideas and predictions for the future, explaining how we got here and challenging what we think we may know about building online communities. Readers will: Learn what a virtual community is and how it has become an integral part of modern society Review key insights into building virtual communities and platforms from the founders and pioneers who created them See what thecurrent developments and the potential challenges are related to the future of virtual communitiesWho is this for:Community managers, company founders and those who want to know more about the origins and future of virtual communities. interviews Include:Randy Farmer & Chip Morningstar – Lucasfilm Games ‘Habitat’ and creators of the modern AvatarHoward Rheingold - Community expert and member of the WELLStacy Horn - Founder of Echo NYCJim Bumgardner - Founder of The PalacePhilip Rosedale - Founder of Second LifeSampo Karjalainen - Co-founder of Habbo HotelLance Priebe - Co-Founder of Club Penguin Angelo Sotira - Co-Founder of Deviant Art Caterina Fake - Co-Founder of FlickrAlexis Ohanian- Founder of Reddit Kevin Rose – Co-Founder of Digg & PROOF CollectiveJason Citron - Founder of Discord Trevor McFedries - Founder of FWB & Brud Cherie Hu - Founder of Water & MusicMichelle Kennedy - Founder of Peanut