The Matrix versus The Cave

For this assignment, I want you to watch the 1999 futuristic and somewhat dystopian film, The Matrix, and read Platos The Allegory of the Cave, part of his Republic text. After reading and viewing both, I want you to write a short 3-4 page paper, 12-pt font, double-spaced. (If you quote or paraphrase, please include citations at the end of your paper.)

Start by comparing the matrix in The Matrix to the cave in The Allegory of the Cave. How are they similar and/or different? (Consider the purpose of the matrix and the cave, who inhabits these places, and the symbolism of each.) Next, what is Plato saying about reality? What happens when we think something is true and it 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 is wrong with the matrix if what we feel is pleasurable? Is it better to live in the matrix in some ways than see things as they really 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 you would choose and why.

No single “right” answer to this assignment exists, so do not cut and paste off the internet. That is plagiarism, and it is easily traceable. Instead, I am asking you to think things through and show me you are grappling with the issues in The Matrix and The Allegory of the Cave.

A copy of the film is located in the shared Google folder: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1cUKWyFIxZ0Mq0o2LGp17f5RlOweyQ65X?usp=sharing

(FOR BEST VIEWING, I RECOMMEND DOWNLOADING THE FILE TO YOUR COMPUTER.)

A copy of Plato’s “Allegory of the Cave” can be found in the shared folder and here.