Fighting the Limits of AI in “Star Trek”

Author

Abstract

The Star Trek franchise has never shied away from ethical discussions regarding the protections and respect we humans give non-humans. In this project I examine two non-biological crew members and their interactions with technology that is similar, if not as substantial, to themselves. Yet, that technology is regarded only as a service or form of passive entertainment. These interactions take place in simulation programs that feature holographic, AI beings with greater limitations on their abilities and actions in an environment room called the “holodeck”. One of these beings with AI is an advanced android who holds the rank of lieutenant commander, Data (Star Trek: The Next Generation, 1987). The other, known as Doctor (Star Trek: Voyager, 1995), is an emergency medical hologram meant for short-term assistance. Both seek to participate in the nuances of human interaction and gain personal identity over the course of their respective series. In this infographic, I work to examine one question: If the AI beings on the ship’s holodeck are programmed with restrictions, are Data and the Doctor similarly limited in their quest to understand humanity and fight for personhood?

Project: Fighting the Limits of AI in “Star Trek”