The Matrix and Philosophy -Metaphysics, Epistemology, Ethics

[papau]

http://www.cnn.com/2003/TECH/ptech/11/25/matrix.philosophy.ap/index.html

ALLENTOWN, Pennsylvania (AP) -- Long after The Matrix Revolutions morphs itself off the big screen, the eternal battle of reality versus illusion, fate versus free will and good versus evil will rage on in philosophy classrooms everywhere. <snip>

To briefly sum up the plot of the movies, the matrix is an illusion generated by robotic machines that have finally gotten their revenge on humans by enslaving them as living battery cells. Humans don't know this, however. They think they are living free.

Along comes Neo (Keanu Reeves), who just may be The One to lift the veil and set humans free; his wise mentor and rebel leader, Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne); and Neo's love interest, Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss). They have the ability to travel between reality and illusion, kung fu fighting with robots and battling giant metallic squids. Symbols from the works of Carl Jung, Joseph Campbell and James Frazer abound. <snip>

Metaphysics asks: What makes something real or not real? If all that exists is matter and motion, what is a mind? Can a computer like Agent Smith, Neo's nemesis, have a mind?

Epistemology asks: What is the nature of knowledge? "Skeptics say we can't acquire knowledge by means of the senses, because we can't be certain that what our senses tell us is true," said Schick. So how can we be certain that we're not living in the matrix?

Ethics asks: What makes something right or wrong? Is all that matters in life having good experiences even though you're a "brain in a vat," or the kind of choices you make?

"Neo thinks that leading a good life requires making good choices," said Schick, which brings up the whole issue of fate and free will -- the illusion of a choice, or a real choice -- which leads back to metaphysics. ... the Oracle ...really didn't know the future but was using humans' faith in her to manipulate them," said Schick. <snip>

[theivoryqueen]

1. okay - so what's the final answer?

I never was much for philosophy, as those who practice it (some of my favorite humans) indulged on long and extensive discussions over relatively minor life-details. I am more of a "let's go out and play" type person. Life's short, time's scarce and fun is always fun.

[T Roosevelt]

2. 42

Now what's the question?

[theivoryqueen]

3. hehe

I think the question is best put by Linda Ronstadt: "When will I be loved".

[Nlighten1]

4. Interesting...

I remember somewhere that 42 is the answer but I don't remember exactly why.

[theivoryqueen]

5. see, I always thought it was 17

[ret5hd]

6. in hitch hikers guide to the galaxy...

that is the answer to the meaning of life (actually, i remember it as being 32, but i could be wrong)

[papau]

7. The answer was 42 - and the question ?????

:-)

[mastein]

8. The Question

A: 42
Q: What is the sum of Life, the Universe and Everything?

So long, and thanks for all the fish!

[papau]

9. A great series of books!

knowing the "question" deserves a smile

:-)

:-)