Oh my goodness I've just learned a thing about The Matrix that causes it to make a lot more sense: In the original script the humans were used as neural network compute clusters by the Machines and as a crucial component of The Matrix itself.
Which is why humans who were aware of the simulation could control aspects of The Matrix - their minds were part of its foundation.
Unfortunately the test audiences had trouble understanding this concept so the studio changed the human role to "batteries".
@polychrome
Wow, that just fits so much better in practically every way.
And is oddly parallel to the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy too...
@polychrome
Morpheus: What is the Matrix? Control. The Matrix is a computer-generated dream world built to turn a human being into this:
@InvaderXan @polychrome
And now I want for them to make an Intel product placement in the remake
@pasqui023 @InvaderXan sinister 90's Intel bunny suits.
@InvaderXan
Bravo!!! *clap clap clap*
@polychrome