Validation of the Model of Strengths, Weaknesses, Challenges, and Opportunities of the Metaverse in the Context of Iran’s Economic and Social Development

The metaverse, as a new technology in the digital world, is poised to transform human life in the near future—so much so that entering the metaverse may be likened to humanity's transition into a new era. Like other communication tools, this platform has the potential to bring about social transformations and even influence beliefs and values. Accordingly, the present study conducts a sociological analysis of the opportunities and threats posed by the metaverse in the context of Iran’s economic and social development. From a goal-oriented perspective, this is an applied research study. Following the identification and extraction of strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and opportunities of the metaverse in the field of Iran’s economic and social development, a quantitative study was conducted to design a model and ensure the validity and appropriateness of the proposed framework. For this purpose, the model of strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and opportunities of the metaverse in economic and social development was examined using factor analysis. Based on the results, the components related to the strengths, weaknesses, challenges, and opportunities of the metaverse in this domain were validated. In this regard, establishing interaction protocols and standards, clarifying the legal dimensions of this space and its generated content, and enhancing governance in this realm are among the most important tasks facing policymakers and legislators. Therefore, ensuring cybersecurity and privacy, identifying potential risks in the metaverse, strengthening governance through a balance of security and freedom in the metaverse, and raising public awareness and education via the media for proper user engagement are deemed essential.