6.09 The Quality of Life

Rating: 2.5

A scientist, driven to perfect and prove the merit of a new particle fountain mining technology, builds a series of devices called exocomps designed to perform work tasks. But when one exocomp malfunctions, Data’s examinations lead him to believe that they may be sentient life-forms.

Comments

Hello, Hewey, Dewey, and Louie! These exocomps look and act an awful lot like the drones used by Freeman Lowell (Bruce Dern) in the movie Silent Running. And in what may be a tribute to the same movie, one of the three drones dies here as well.

Crusher believes that beards are an affectation, but Riker, Worf, and the newly bearded Geordi do not. Crusher wagers that if she wins the current poker hand, the three have to shave. If she loses, she will dye her hair brunette. Unfortunately, Picard summons senior staff to the bridge before the hand can be completed.

This episode was directed by Jonathan Frakes.

Nits

Why is there such a contrived rush to evaluate the partical stream mining technology? There is no impending emergency, and I don’t think the minable elements are going anywhere. Yet it seems a decision must be made within 48 hours.

Memorable Moments

•    The realization that Data has disobeyed orders and locked the transporter to protect what he believes are sentient beings.

Quotable Quotes

"It was the most human decision you’ve ever made."
- Picard to Data on his decision to lock the transporter and stop the exocomps from being used as torpedoes against their will.