The Matrix - Were They Free or Determined?

The Matrix Ð'- Were They Free or Determined?

Examining the movie the Matrix gives us an opportunity to question if we are truly free or if our lives are determined by some exterior force outside ourselves. The movie expresses the reality that everything is done by free will. Despite what may appear to be dire circumstances, each individual is free to choose in his or her life. This document will demonstrate how each individual has the ability to demonstrate free will.

The matrix interface is powered by the energy that is given off from the human body. Millions of bodies are plugged into the matrix. Humanity lives their lives in a complex computer matrix believing they are in another time (1999) and in a relatively peaceful existence. Within that construct, the individual has the ability to make decisions that ultimately establishes that the individual is free. Once the individual is informed of the matrix, the individual is placed in another situation to which decision is offered. Will the individual choose the red pill, and learn "where the rabbit whole leads"? Or will he choose the blue pill and "wake up never knowing what happened"?

Based on the study of existentialism, a person is defined as being "free" if they exhibit these evidences:

1. He chooses to do or act Ð'- a choice is made.

2. He has an option to resist temptation Ð'- natural inclination.

3. He has guilt or remorse for actions he has done.

4. Influences are considered but a choice is made.

In the movie each person is offered options from which one has the ability to choose. Neo chose to take the red pill. He was curious about what the matrix was. He wanted to learn more about it. So he chose. He was told about how the matrix works and about how it has everyone plugged in as batteries powering some incredible mechanical setup. He could choose to believe it or not. In fact it made him sick. Finally he came to understand the truth of his world. He chose to rescue Morpheous, putting his life on the line for him. And then he did so again for Trinity. His acts were a demonstration of his freedom.

Later in the movie Neo has a conversation with Cypher where he states that he wonders