24 Pages Posted: 8 Sep 2009 Last revised: 14 Sep 2010

Date Written: July 1, 2009

Abstract

Virtual worlds are more successfully blurring the lines between real and virtual. This tempts many to try and equate virtual property with tangible property. Such an equation creates problems when the common law of property is applied to virtual objects over which users can not possess complete dominion and control. The result is a conversion of the tangible resources that support virtual worlds into a virtual commons. Accordingly, the common law of contracts, rather than that of property, should be used to govern transactions between a user and owner of a virtual world. (Displayed with permission from the Journal of Technology Law & Policy © 2009. All rights reserved.)