The Metaphysics of the Matrix

When arguing the existence of "The Matrix" or how it is separate from reality you must first understand how to make the distinction between the two. This system of analyzing and categorizing the traits which make them different is known as metaphysics. This method of organized investigation serves as a powerful tool in being able to argue either side. It is fundamental to understand that although there are many similarities it is the relation of their differences that makes their contrast so evident.
In "The Matrix and Philosophy" Jorge Gracia and Jonathan Sanford state that to even begin to distinguish the differences between the real world and "The Matrix" you must first ontologically analyze the source of each characteristic. The 2009 edition of the Random House dictionary defines ontology as the branch of metaphysics that studies the nature of existence or being as such. Essentially, to categorize each characteristic you must find the source or origin. The simplest difference between reality and "The Matrix" is that we do not know what causes reality. "The Matrix" however originates from reality. It was created and functions solely from it's creator. Someone or something had to create the concept and then map it out before producing it and eventually activating it.
Reality exists independently. "The Matrix" however is completely dependant on it's source. Everything in "The Matrix" stems from an order or program that was written for it. The whole concept of it is that it is a complex program that creates a sort of parallel reality. Gracia and Sanford best explain it as viewing each characteristic through the same lens. To know if something is real or not you must know it's source. If it was created by something you already know to be real then it is clearly a production and not real. The source of reality is unknown but you know you exist on the same plain as it and live in it. After all that's all you got