Down here, sometimes I think about all those people still plugged into the Matrix and when I look at these machines I can't help thinking that in a way we are plugged into them.

But we control these machines; they don't control us.

Of course not. How could they? The idea is pure nonsense. But...it does make one wonder... just... what is control?

If we wanted, we could shut these machines down.

Of course. That's it. You hit it. That's control, isn't it? If we wanted we could smash them to bits. Although, if we did, we'd have to consider what would happen to our lights, our heat, our air...

So we need machines and they need us, is that your point, Councillor?

No. No point. Old men like me don't bother with making points. There's no point.

Is that why there are no young men on the council?

Good point.