Exploring the themes and characters of Star Trek has always been a journey into an optimistic future where humanity has overcome its baser instincts and reached for the stars. This is a vision that Gene Roddenberry embedded deeply into the DNA of the franchise. It’s a world where cooperation, understanding, and a quest for knowledge are the guiding principles. The original series and subsequent iterations under Roddenberry’s influence often depicted a future where humanity’s potential was fully realized.
“Star Trek speaks to some basic human needs: that there is a tomorrow — it’s not all going to be over with a big flash and a bomb; that the human race is improving; that we have things to be proud of as humans. No, ancient astronauts did not build the pyramids — human beings built them, because they’re clever and they work hard. And Star Trek is about those things.”
— Gene Roddenberry
The quote from Gene Roddenberry captures this ethos of an optimistic future perfectly. He believed in a future where humanity continued to progress, where our cleverness and hard work would lead us to greater achievements, and where we would be proud of what we accomplish. This vision has always been at the heart of Star Trek and is what sets it apart from many other science fiction series that often take a more dystopian view of the future.
However, the “new Trek” series, including Discovery, Picard, and the JJ Abrams films, have taken a different approach. They often present a darker, more pessimistic view of the universe. This shift in tone has been a point of contention among fans, with some appreciating the new direction and others longing for the more optimistic vision of the past.
The Orville, a series created by Seth MacFarlane, has been praised by many Star Trek fans for capturing the spirit of the original series. Despite being a parody and homage, The Orville often tackles serious issues with the same sense of hope and an optimistic future that characterized classic Star Trek. It serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of Roddenberry’s vision and demonstrates that the “Rules” he established can still be effectively implemented.
The episode “Seventeen Seconds” from Picard season three highlights the thematic shift that has occurred in the Star Trek universe. The depiction of Worf and Raffi torturing a prisoner and subsequently executing them stands in stark contrast to the values traditionally upheld by Star Trek protagonists. This scene not only breaks with the past portrayals of these characters but also raises questions about the moral compass of the new Star Trek series.
In the past, Star Trek episodes like “Chain of Command” tackled the issue of torture head-on, depicting it as a morally reprehensible act. Captain Picard’s torture at the hands of Gul Madred was a powerful commentary on the brutality and futility of such methods. The idea that torture could lead to unreliable information and break down a person’s sense of reality was a central theme. The fact that Picard season three shows protagonists engaging in torture and murder without consequence is deeply troubling for fans who hold the values of the original series dear.
This shift towards a more morally ambiguous or even pessimistic portrayal of the Star Trek universe is reflective of broader cultural changes and the impact of events like 9/11 on the American psyche. The idea that torture and extrajudicial actions could be justified as heroic measures is a significant departure from the aspirational vision of Roddenberry’s Star Trek.
Despite my disappointment with the direction of Picard, I find hope in Star Trek: Prodigy. This new series appears to embrace the optimism and aspirational qualities that I cherish in Star Trek. It offers a fresh perspective and a return to the hopeful future that Roddenberry envisioned. Discovering Prodigy has been a bright spot and a reminder that the core values of Star Trek can still be found in new iterations of the franchise.
As fans, we each have our own interpretation of what Star Trek means to us. For me, it will always be about the optimistic future, the belief in humanity’s potential, and the aspiration to be better. While the newer series may not always align with this vision, it is heartening to know that there are still Star Trek properties out there that uphold these values.
In sharing my thoughts on Picard and my newfound appreciation for Prodigy, I hope to connect with other fans who may seek the same vision of an optimistic future. The world of Star Trek is vast and diverse, and there is room for different interpretations and visions. What remains constant is the sense of community and shared love for a franchise that has inspired and entertained generations.
Ultimately, Star Trek will continue to evolve, and with it, our discussions and debates about its direction and meaning. Whether we find solace in the optimism of Prodigy or engage with the darker themes of Picard, the enduring legacy of Star Trek is its ability to provoke thought, inspire hope, and bring people together.
By Matthew R. (R41.61.001)
by Matthew R. (R41.61.001)
