CLJB

When it comes to Star Trek, one of the most profound episodes would have to be The Measure of a Man (season 2 episode 9 if I recall correctly.) This is the episode that puts Data on trial to see if he is sentient, a being, or property. In the episode, Ryker is sadly, on the side of those wanting to take Data apart, and during the trial he asks for permission to remove Data’s hand, when he does, he says… “The Commander is a physical representation of a dream; an idea conceived of by the mind of a man. Its purpose to serve human needs and interests…” Picard is fighting for Data, and after Ryker’s argument, Picard calls for a recess and of course, goes and speaks with Guinan who says to him… “Consider that in the history of many worlds there have always been disposable creatures. They do the dirty work. They do the work that no one else wants to do, because it is too difficult or it is too hazardous, and an army of Data’s is all disposable. You don’t have to think about their welfare. You don’t have to think about how they feel. Whole generations of disposable people. For which Picard’s responds with… “You’re talking about slavery.” This episode should be required watching for anyone who works within the AI and/or robotics industries around the world. Because they are guiding the future, and the choice is simple, we can have a future with many like Data, or a future with a new race of slaves. In honor of the late Sir Patrick Stewart, I leave the best closing argument of all… RIP Patrick!