Table of Contents

Acknowledgments vi

Matrix Quotations Legend viii

Introduction: Jacking into the Philosophy Behind the Matrix 1

1 Before the Philosophy: Understanding the Films 7

2 Tumbling Down the Rabbit Hole: Knowledge, Reality, and the Pit of Skepticism 20

3 Mind and Body in Zion 32

4 Are Sentient Machines Possible? 47

5 The Problem is Choice: Control, Free Will, and Causal Determinism 56

6 How to Really Bake Your Noodle: Time, Fate, and the Problem of Foreknowledge 69

7 Virtual Bodies: The Construction of Race and Gender in the Matrix 85

8 Agent Smith’s Moral Challenge 102

9 De-Cyphering Right and Wrong 114

10 There Is No Spoon: Reflections on the Material World 127

11 Morpheus and the Leap of Faith 138

12 Facing the Absurd: Existentialism for Humans and Programs 150

13 The Tao of the Code 168

14 Overcoming Your Own Matrix 183

Matrix Cast of Characters 198

Matrix Glossary 207

Cast of Philosophers 214

Index 221

About the Author

Matt Lawrence is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Long Beach City College.

Reviews

"Given the wide variety of topics covered, the unique perspective, and the inviting style, Splinter truly is the book Matrix fans have been waiting for. As an introduction to philosophy, it's first-rate, both for fans of the trilogy, and even those who aren't." THEMATRIX101.COM


"The book is exceptionally well-organized: Lawrence has done a remarkable job of isolating the salient issues and examining them systematically, one by one, chapter by chapter, in a colloquial, witty style that enhances the accessibility of his method." The Boston Phoenix, Friday September 24, 2004