Will meaning survive the rise of virtual and synthetic realities? This bridge essay explores SE’s protocols for flourishing, identity, and wisdom, arguing that only contestable, plural, and repairable forms of meaning can thrive in programmable worlds. In the synthetic future, meaning is co-created through public challenge, narrative diversity, and radical openness.

How does virtual and augmented reality reshape identity and shared truth? This paper establishes auditable protocols—identity drift thresholds, platinum validation of edits, and world-divergence council vetoes—ensuring that synthetic worlds preserve autonomy, trust, and plural meaning for all.