Compared to the United States military -- well, there's very little comparison. Our People get certified in as many technical packages as they can, and rely on personal connections to get drawn into teams where that technical expertise can be put into experience (the more experience they build, the more personal connections and thus the more field work they'll get).
But, the creator of Star Trek didn't want it to be a reflection of our reality or our military. Star Trek has a...different set of precepts, rules, directives and goals. I cannot imagine any version of the Federation Academy where cadets would be trained to go behind enemy lines, block radio communications and intentionally spread misinformation as if that's just what you do all the time. Star Trek's about a future with different problems, but a vision where the creator thought it was VERY important that a Vulcan, an Asian, a Russian AND an African-American Woman all served as volunteer officers on the bridge of a ship with NO intention of war mongering.
There were plenty of times Captain Kirk allowed dangerous individuals and groups to infiltrate and endanger his crew and ship, all in the name of human kindness.
One thing I LIKE about this show is how the members of the bridge and executive officers staff seem to genuinely CARE about each other, even though they often have different views on issues they face...and, is that so different from the camaraderie of Brothers in Arms?
This episode was about finding middle ground. Now, some think that's too touchy-feely. I contend that's not so different from other Star Trek series, even TOS. I contend that the politics of today are keeping People from seeing that.
And, I think Saru and Madam President would make a cute couple. (!)
Review by VWFringe the Pervy Sage from TVMuseBlockedParent2022-02-18T04:34:11Z
Compared to the United States military -- well, there's very little comparison. Our People get certified in as many technical packages as they can, and rely on personal connections to get drawn into teams where that technical expertise can be put into experience (the more experience they build, the more personal connections and thus the more field work they'll get).
But, the creator of Star Trek didn't want it to be a reflection of our reality or our military. Star Trek has a...different set of precepts, rules, directives and goals. I cannot imagine any version of the Federation Academy where cadets would be trained to go behind enemy lines, block radio communications and intentionally spread misinformation as if that's just what you do all the time. Star Trek's about a future with different problems, but a vision where the creator thought it was VERY important that a Vulcan, an Asian, a Russian AND an African-American Woman all served as volunteer officers on the bridge of a ship with NO intention of war mongering.
There were plenty of times Captain Kirk allowed dangerous individuals and groups to infiltrate and endanger his crew and ship, all in the name of human kindness.
One thing I LIKE about this show is how the members of the bridge and executive officers staff seem to genuinely CARE about each other, even though they often have different views on issues they face...and, is that so different from the camaraderie of Brothers in Arms?
This episode was about finding middle ground. Now, some think that's too touchy-feely. I contend that's not so different from other Star Trek series, even TOS. I contend that the politics of today are keeping People from seeing that.
And, I think Saru and Madam President would make a cute couple. (!)