Star Trek: The Next Generation: The Measure of a Man (2 of 2)

Work Title: Star Trek: The Next Generation: The Measure of a Man (2 of 2)
Medium: TV Episode
Episode Title: The Measure of a Man
Year: 1989
Writer(s): Gene Roddenberry
"Original" Writer: Yes Writer(s): Melinda M. Snodgrass
"Original" Writer: Own work?: No

Summary:

from imdb.com When Data resigns his commission rather than be dismantled for examination by an inadequately skilled scientist, a formal hearing is convened to determine whether Data is considered property without rights or is a sentient being.

  • Self-Written?:
  • Source Name: IMDB
  • Source URL:

Era/Year of Portrayal: distant_future

Distinctive characteristics of the world in portrayal:

It is the year 2365 - space travel is common. There are many worlds inhabited besides Earth.


Technology

  • Name of portrayed presence-evoking technology: Data
  • Description of the technology: Data is an android, built to resemble a human. He is mobile, very intelligent, rational, and able to communicate well. He is an officer on a space ship. People interact with him as if he is human. He is independent, and always interested in learning more about humanity. He lacks emotions. He has a positronic brain.
  • Nature of task or activity: People interact with Data as if he was a friend - holding conversations, playing games, and treat him as a normal co-worker.
  • Performance of the Technology: very well.
  • Description of creator(s): Dr. Noonien Soong - details unknown.
  • Major goal(s) of creator(s): Presumably to advance technology.
  • Description of users of technology: The people who interact with Data are other officers of the Starfleet, male, female, differetn racse and ages.
  • Type(s) of presence experience in the portrayal: social_presence
  • Description of presence experience: The presence experience is generally pleasant. Peple like Data and treat him as a friend.
  • User awareness of technology during experience: yes.
  • Valence of experience: enjoy it - he is a co-worker and friend.
  • Specific responses: involvement, intense parasocial relationships, friendship, caring.
Long-term consequences:

After a hearing, Data is determined to not be considered property, but to have his own rights. He will not be dismantled in order to be studied. A happy ending.

Other:

Coder name: Amanda Scheiner
Coder email: amandags@temple.edu
Coder affiliation: Temple University