Cyberspace self-­‐governance and its role and limits in regulating virtual world property relationships

Linda Margaret Broughton, University of Kent Brussels School of International Studies

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore the limits of cyberspace self-governance in governing property relationships in the virtual world. First this paper will explore what constitutes a virtual world and the theory of cyberspace self-rule within a virtual world. Next this paper will explore the four common types of property relationships originating from a virtual world. Then this paper will explore the concept of cyberspace self-rule as it is applied in virtual worlds, drawing on current academic literature covering this topic. Finally, this paper will demonstrate the limitations of self-determination in adequately governing these property relationships.