The Prime Directive and
"Symbiosis."
In the first-season TNG episode "Symbiosis," Captain Picard cites
the Prime Directive (Starfleet's noninterference policy, General
Order #1) as justification for his solution to the conflict between
the narcotics-peddling Brekkans and the drug-addict
Ornarans. Is the relationship between these two races a
naturally evolved symbiotic relationship protected by the Prime
Directive or a case of morally reprehensible exploitation calling
for active intervention? In this episode of Meta
Treks, hosts Zachary Fruhling and Mike Morrison analyze the
in-universe philosophy behind the Prime Directive, including its
justification and its applicability to the moral dilemma in
"Symbiosis."
In addition to the discussion on the Prime Directive, Zachary and
Mike discuss the drug Felicium (or "happiness pill") in light of
the 1980s "Just Say No" anti-drug campaign, the use of Felicium as
a consequentalist plot device in "Symbiosis," this episode's
post-Capitalist economic message, and the significance of "Ornare"
(Latin) and "Brekka" (Old Norse) as roots of the names of these two
alien races.
This episode also reminds listeners of the Meta Treks iTunes review
content, running though January 15, 2016. And for your post-show
entertainment, Zachary sings his rousing Felicium-themed rendition
of "Let's Call the Whole Thing Off."
Chapters
Welcome to Episode 9 (00:01:14)
About the Review Contest (00:02:48)
Beginning the Conversation (00:05:03)
Summary of Symbiosis (00:05:59)
The Prime Directive (00:08:12)
Symbiosis or Exploitation? (00:45:31)
Post-Capitalist Economics (00:57:47)
Final Thoughts (01:10:17)
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