[BRIEF NOTE] Why I Like Deep Space Nine

[rfmcdonald]

Unlike the other Star Trek series, set in an antiseptic and somewhat implausible Federation where all conflict is external, Deep Space Nine was set in an environment filled with conflict, partly because this environment had an actual contested history. Thus producing drama, thus producing entertaining television. Take this exercept from the series premiere "Emissary", for instance.

Kira leads Bashir inside a small, examining room type facility... one table... some panels... major damage has been done by vandals...

KIRA
I'm afraid we've had some security problems... looks like looters got in here...

Bashir looks around... rather than being depressed by the size or lack of equipment... there is an excitement in his eyes...

BASHIR
This'll be perfect... real... (searching for the right description) ... frontier medicine...

KIRA
Frontier medicine?

BASHIR
Major... I had my choice of any job in the fleet...

Noting the arrogance...

KIRA
Did you...

BASHIR
(gung-ho)
I didn't want some cushy job... or a research grant... I wanted this. The farthest reaches of the galaxy. One of the most remote outposts available.

BASHIR
This is where the adventure is. This is where heroes are made. Right here. In the wilderness.

KIRA
(dry)
This wilderness is my home.

BASHIR
(reacts)
I didn't mean...

KIRA
(sharp, with sarcasm)
The Cardassians left behind a lot of injured people, Doctor... you can make yourself useful by bringing some of your Federation Medicine to the "natives"... you'll find them a friendly, simple folk...

She EXITS... on his reaction... ...