Star Trek the Original Series, created by Gene Roddenberry, first aired on September 8, 1966. We have just passed the 50th anniversary of a revolutionary show. Star Trek taught us so much about society; about racism, sexism, and the dangers of power in corrupt hands. But what sort of life lessons did the show leave us with? If you look past all the old style sets and aliens that were obviously dogs in costumes, it’s a pretty awesome show.
1. It’s Okay to Feel
This show does nothing but praise the feeling of emotions, with the exception of the shows famous Mr. Spock, of course. However even Spock, logic’s number one cheerleader, concedes that sometimes, emotion is all we have. And if Spock was logic’s biggest fan, then Dr. McCoy was certainly the advocate for open emotions.
“Compassion -- that's the one thing no machine ever had. Maybe it's the one thing that keeps men ahead of them.”
McCoy, "The Ultimate Computer"
2. We’re Not Perfect, and That’s Okay
The show also loves to preach about human imperfection. As a species, as individuals, humans are flawed. But the theme of all series of Star Trek is that despite our flaws, there is hope.
“We prefer to help ourselves. We make mistakes, but we're human -- and maybe that's the word that best explains us.”
Kirk, "I, Mudd
3. You Can Always Work It Out
Star Trek is also a show of constant conflict. War rages within one society, another on the brink of destroying itself. Captain Kirk and his crew taught us time and time again that peace is always an option. Even when everything seems lost, our first thoughts must be of peace, and not violence.
“[War is] instinctive. But the instinct can be fought. We're human beings with the blood of a million savage years on our hands! But we can stop it. We can admit that we're killers...but we're not going to kill today. That's all it takes! Knowing that we're not going to kill today!”
Kirk, "A Taste of Armageddon"
4. The Importance of Where We Came From
Hindsight is a beautiful thing and the writers of Star Trek used it well. With episodes taking place in the 30s, during World War II, and even farther back, Star Trek reminds us of where we came from, and how we have improved. In doing this, it also reminds us that we must continue to improve.
“We once were as you are. Spears and arrows. There came a time when our weapons grew faster than our wisdom, and we almost destroyed ourselves. We learned from this to make a rule during all our travels never to cause the same to happen to other worlds ... just as a man must grow in his own way and his own time.”
Kirk, "A Private Little War"
5. The Perseverance of Humanity
When Star Trek was written in the 1960s, life was different than it is now. The Korean War just behind us, conflict in Vietnam still going strong, and the threat of nuclear war with the Soviets made for a very stressed out America. Not the mention the Civil Rights and Anti-War movements. Star Trek had perfect timing. Set in a distant future where Earth was at peace, it gave people hope. Hope that we will continue to carry on, despite our distinct humanness.
“We're a most promising species, Mr. Spock, as predators go. Did you know that?”
“I’ve frequently have my doubts.”
“I don't. Not anymore. And maybe in a thousand years or so, we'll be able to prove it.”
Kirk and Spock, "Arena"
