Friday, October 3, 2008

Virtual You


Cloning of humans is still the stuff of sci-fi (but for how long?), yet, have you ever thought of what it might be like to meet a “virtual” you? Imagine interacting with your carbon copy and how this might impact upon your mingling, relating and functioning in a variety of social and professional settings.

While considering the following questions, jot down your responses and try re-reading them at a later time:

• Would you be compelled to meet and really get to know your clone? If not, why not?

• What traits would you find appealing/unappealing in your “twin”?

• Would you choose your replicate as a family member (suspend reality and imagine being able to pick your relatives!), a friend, or a colleague? Do you experience an immediate, visceral response to this idea, or are there any hesitations?

• Do you think your clone would be open to any suggested behavioral, interpersonal or physical changes? What ideas or sage advice, or “constructive” criticism? (in any realm), would you proffer to your mirror image?

• How would you let your mirror image know how he/she is perceived by the outside world? Do you think this would be an easy topic to discuss, or one that has to be approached quite gingerly?

• Do you foresee any complications arising, either between the two of you or because of the nature of the settings in which you’re interacting? If so, what might they be and how do you think you would resolve them?

And remember, taking action is the catalyst for change!