In the 1999 futuristic and somewhat dystopian film, “The Matrix,” directed by the Wachowskis, a computer hacker named Thomas Anderson discovers that reality as he knows it is a simulated illusion created by intelligent machines to subdue humanity. He learns this truth from a group of rebels led by Morpheus, who believe Neo (Anderson’s hacker alias) is “The One” destined to end the war between humans and machines. A pivotal character, Cypher, chooses to betray his comrades, leave the resistance, and return to the Matrix. With the help of Morpheus and the enigmatic Trinity, Neo plays his role as “The One” and fights to free humanity from the Matrix and bring down the machines. The film is renowned for its groundbreaking special effects and action sequences, including the iconic bullet-dodging scene.

After viewing “The Matrix” and reading Plato’s “On the Allegory of the Cave,” how are they similar and/or different? Consider the purpose of the Matrix and the cave. Who inhabits these spaces? What is the symbolism of each place?

Next, what is Plato saying about reality? What happens when we think something is true and turns out to be false and vice versa?

Then, consider the character Cypher in The Matrix; he chooses to betray his comrades, wants to leave the resistance, and returns to the Matrix. Why? What’s wrong with the Matrix if what we feel is pleasurable? Is it better in some ways to live in the Matrix than to see things as they are? This is what Cypher concludes – is he wrong?  Is it true that “ignorance is bliss?” Explain the pros and cons of this statement as it relates to the Matrix and cave.

Finally, Morpheus explains to Neo, “You take the blue pill – the story ends, you wake up in your bed and believe whatever you want to believe. You take the red pill – you stay in Wonderland, and I show you how deep the rabbit hole goes.”

Explain which pill you would choose and why.