I've been seeing this argument around lately, that basically FDVR (if invented) would lead most people into becoming barely sentiment globs or depressed and disillusioned maniacs

That if everyone could have anything they wanted whenever they wanted, they would eventually get bored.

I agree with this, but consider video games, what might be a incredibly early precursor to this type of technology. They are often fun because they are difficult! Even though none of it is real, it's still enjoyable because we choose to challenge ourselves (currently playing RE4 in prof. mode).

I think some aspects of video games (or games in general) are gentler than real life while still retaining some challenge/difficulty. For example, a video game may restart from a checkpoint if you fail a task. Real life, not so much.

That said, I think a little hedonism here or there can be fun. I still think this an interesting philosophical discussion without even considering the practicability of the technology.

What do you think?