re: Matrix question

quote:

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It's implied due to the initial war, but the machines actually know where they are. It's really all a lie to keep humanity in check.

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I think this is the correct interpretation - the machines actually build-in the possibility (although low) of folks getting out and actually allow the Zion rebels in and out. They also create the agents to root them out, but this conflict in purpose and intent is why Smith goes insane (similar to HAL in 2001).

The machines maintain this delicate balance, a "phony" war from their perspective to keep things in balance, while the rebels think they're fighting an actual war with actual consequences.