How many layers of meaning lie in The Matrix? As the Wachowskis have said: “More than you will ever know.”

Taking the Red Pill is a non-fiction book that explores a variety of literary, philosophical, religious and scientific themes in the film The Matrix. Taking the Red Pill is targeted at intelligent, intellectually curious fans of the film.

This thought-provoking examination of The Matrix explores the technological challenges, religious symbolism, and philosophical dilemmas the film presents. Essays by renowned scientists, technologists, philosophers, scholars, social commentators, and science fiction authors provide engaging and provocative perspectives.

Explored in a highly accessible fashion are issues such as the future of artificial intelligence and virtual reality. The symbolism hidden throughout The Matrix and a few glitches in the film are revealed. Discussions include “Finding God in The Matrix,” “The Reality Paradox in The Matrix,” and “Was Cypher Right?: Why We Stay in Our Matrix.” The fascinating issues posed by the film are handled in an intelligent but nonacademic fashion.