Editor and Publisher has an
interesting (and long!) story on CNet's and Reuters' bureaus in the virtual world
Second Life -- including some interesting ethical and technological challenges.
According to Editor & Publisher, "I
n terms of reporting technique, interviewing sources within Second Life often means people will be more at ease, versus having to meet face to face with real-life journalists or even talking on the telephone. The extra sense of anonymity can compel some sources to open up. Since Second Life's chat feature retains a log of exchanges, sources may be less worried about being misquoted, suggests [Second Life Herald Managing Editor] Pixeleen Mistral."
But there are new ethical challenges at stake for virtual reporters as well, including a new twist on anonymous sources (some people don't want to give their real world name in interviews, which makes verification difficult), and Linden Lab's strict terms of service policy, which limits sharing Second Life virtual conversations with the outside world.
The article is a good overview for those who haven't been following the journalism-happenings in Second Life. (For more on Second Life and journalism, search for 'second life' in the search box at the right.)