Diagnosing contemporary philosophy with the Matrix movies

Description

This book charts the shape of future philosophical investigation by posing the question: "What is the Matrix?" Guided by the example of the Matrix film trilogy, the author examines issues ranging from simulation, proof and action to value, culture and mythology, offering a progressively deeper diagnosis of modern philosophical conditions. In contrast to the contemporary focus upon cognitive science and a commitment to the distinction between appearance and reality, this book helps readers to explore the argument that such abstractions are inevitably displaced by a more concrete distinction between dreaming and waking, with the Matrix as the real and only world we inhabit. Researchers and scholars will find this work an engaging and enlightening examination of reality, via the medium of popular culture and film.  Read more... 1. Introduction -- 2. Are You Living in a Computer Simulation? (The Level of Cognitive Science: Level 0) -- 3. Are You a Brain-In-a-Vat? (Level of Logic: Level 1) -- 4. Introduction to the Parafinite (Level of the Parafinite: Level 2) -- 5. An Introduction to Paraphysics (Level of Paraphysics: Level 3) -- 6. An Introduction to Philosophical Praxis (Level of Philosophical Praxis: Level 4) -- 7. An Introduction to Philosophia Perennis (Level of Work on Myth and Philosophy: Level 5) -- From the Director's Cut (Level of Transit: Level 1.5).