DAY 48 The Matrix

The Matrix

SYNOPSIS: Neo, a software developer by day and computer hacker by night, is recruited by an underground rebel named Morpheus.  Morpheus explains that Neo and everyone else has been living in an illusion generated by a massive computer called the Matrix.  The Matrix, in turn, is powered by the biologically-created electricity of millions of humans that are wired to it in a dream-like state.  Neo physically breaks free of the Matrix and, now in the real world, attempts to expose the illusion with Morpheus and other rebels.  They re-enter the world of the Matrix where Neo successfully battles the Matrix’s law enforcement agents and learns that he himself is a messianic leader.

This assignment is due on Monday, April 26 at the beginning of class.

Rough draft for peer editing is due on Friday, April 23.  Two copies of rough work are due for peer editing during class - these are to be submitted with your final work on Monday.

After watching the 1999 movie The Matrix, please write a 1000 word review of the film.  In your review address the following:

a.    What main epistemological question(s) is dealt with in the movie?

b.    What philosophers and their theories could you use in helping to address and explain these questions?

c.    In your opinion, what main epistemological issue was raised but not answered?

d.    How could you answer this issue? 

e.    What theorist would you use to help support your response?

The marking scheme for this is as follows:


Evaluation

Knowledge   /20
/10  Main epistemological question(s) is/are identified correctly and explained correctly.
/10  You use philosophers' theories correctly, clearly and precisely in answering the question(s) posed.

Thinking       /20
/10  You correctly identify and explain a main epistemological question that was raised but not answered.
/10  You respond to that question clearly and effectively using at least one philosopher’s theory.

Communication   /20
/10  Maturity in thought, sentence structure and language is evident.
/10  Proper language conventions are followed and there are no errors in grammar, spelling, syntax.


Application     /20
/10  You provide a very detailed and balanced evaluation of the philosopher and his/her suggested answer to the main Matrix question(s) including good use of quotes and theories.
/10  Two copies of peer edited rough work are submitted on time with your good copy.