When Geordi arrives on a mining planet, he meets a female engineer who has develop a marvelous machine, the Exocomp, that can repair and change things so humans don't have to risk their lives. The laboratory is saved because on of these things was able to adapt properly and make repairs. The issue is that these machines are beginning to think and adapt on their own. Data, who should know, begins to think of these things as sentient creatures, capable of thought and action, including self-preservation. Even though the Enterprise is in grave danger, he refuses to allow them to work. Once again, the definition of what life is comes into play. Remember a previous episode where a court found Data to be a sentient creature, a life form. The issues are unique and handled very well here. The episode is cleverly written and well presented.
Star Trek: The Next Generation (TV Series)
The Quality of Life (1992)
User Reviews
Review this title18 Reviews
What is life?
Tweekums4 August 2015
Warning: Spoilers
While Geordi is helping scientist Dr Farallon with her experimental new mining technique something goes wrong and it looks as if it will have to be shut down. This would add months to the work so Farallon proposes using one of her experimental 'Exocomp' robots. These advanced devices are capable of identifying the problem and replicating the right tool for the job so the problem is solved in minutes. Impressed with the device Geordi encourages Dr Farallon to show it to Capt Picard on the Enterprise. To demonstrate the device she tries to use it to carry out a repair but the device returns with the task unfinished and shuts down its interface. Shortly afterwards there is an explosion at the site the repair was needed; Farallon thinks this is a coincidence but Data wonders if the device refused as an act of self-preservation
a possible sign that it is sentient. Analysis shows that shortly afterwards the exocomp repaired its interface and shows signs that it had been rewriting its own programming. To test this theory it is asked to carry out further repairs with simulated accidents but this time it continued working as told
Farallon takes this as a sign that the device is just a machine while Data isn't so sure and continues to experiment and becomes so convinced that they are 'alive' that he blocks their use in an action that would sacrifice them to save Geordi and Capt. Picard!
This is one of those episode that is about issues more than action; whether you enjoy it will depend on how interesting you find the issue and whether or not you agree with the programmes opinion on the matter. The idea of devices becoming sentient isn't a new one; indeed Data himself has been a centre of a debate about the nature of life and the rights of androids. This is slightly different though; the exocomps don't look human or act in an obviously alive manner. The story is handled in an interesting way although there are certain aspects that seemed a little off most notably Picard's observation that Data was at his most human when he refused to sacrifice the exocomps to save his friends I'm sure most humans would have used them even if they knew they were sentient. The exocomps were nicely designed, cute but not overly so, however their movement did look rather unrealistic. Overall and interesting story but not one of the series' most gripping.
This is one of those episode that is about issues more than action; whether you enjoy it will depend on how interesting you find the issue and whether or not you agree with the programmes opinion on the matter. The idea of devices becoming sentient isn't a new one; indeed Data himself has been a centre of a debate about the nature of life and the rights of androids. This is slightly different though; the exocomps don't look human or act in an obviously alive manner. The story is handled in an interesting way although there are certain aspects that seemed a little off most notably Picard's observation that Data was at his most human when he refused to sacrifice the exocomps to save his friends I'm sure most humans would have used them even if they knew they were sentient. The exocomps were nicely designed, cute but not overly so, however their movement did look rather unrealistic. Overall and interesting story but not one of the series' most gripping.
Data Defends His Brethren
Samuel-Shovel14 June 2020
Warning: Spoilers
In "The Quality of Life" the crew of the Enterprise must deal with the dilemma between ethics and technological advancement when a group of newly created repair exocomps exhibit potential life signs while working on a new mining experiment. Can the Federation treat these things as machines or are they really a new life form with rights?
It's fun revisiting this dilemma in a new light, the exocomps don't really communicate or have any humanoid-like traits so the issue here is far less cut and dry as the original court case we had with Data. For a lot of people, these exocomps' lack of characteristics might prohibit them from defining these things as alive but Data stands in as their defender at a crucial time. It's a quiet episode, we don't get any big set pieces or action scenes or even comedic scenes, but it's a fairly functional drama with a good director in Frakes behind the camera.
It's fun revisiting this dilemma in a new light, the exocomps don't really communicate or have any humanoid-like traits so the issue here is far less cut and dry as the original court case we had with Data. For a lot of people, these exocomps' lack of characteristics might prohibit them from defining these things as alive but Data stands in as their defender at a crucial time. It's a quiet episode, we don't get any big set pieces or action scenes or even comedic scenes, but it's a fairly functional drama with a good director in Frakes behind the camera.
Exocomps!
gritfrombray-19 June 2007
Warning: Spoilers
When Doctor Farallon comes aboard the USS Enterprise with a new device which is helping her to construct a particle fountain she explains that it a small robotic device called an Exocomp which has a complex memory and a self learning system for every time it completes a new task. Data is intrigued and they work with the device. It later malfunctions and a moment later the conduit it was working in explodes. It is brought back to the Enterprise and Data later discovers it has repaired itself, but had also disabled itself earlier. Puzzled, Data asks the computer why the Exocomp would disable itself and then repair itself. The computer does not have an answer. Realizing that they might be alive a test is set up and the Exocomp fails and Doctor Farallon is vindicated. Data retests the unit exhaustively and only a timely intervention by Crusher allows the Exocomp to return without a order to do so. Data is surprised and is amazed to discover the Exocomp knew there was no danger and completed the repair and disabled the false overload signal for the test. Data later puts on one of his best shows when he risks Geordi and Captain Picard by preventing the Exocomps being used as a torpedo to stop the particle stream. Riker eventually agrees to give the Exocomps a choice. They later save Geordi and Picard and sacrifice one of their own to do so in a touching scene. Data later apologizes to Picard for risking his life but Picard commends him and says it was one of the most human decisions he's ever made. Brilliant stuff. Trivia note, LeVar Burton is seen here growing a beard, the producers let him keep it because he wanted it for his wedding!
What if our Laptops, PCs and handhelds suddenly came alive?
XweAponX24 May 2013
Warning: Spoilers
This was first explored in the great season 2 courtroom episode "The Measure of a Man" - Is Data Intelligent? Can he adapt? Is he Aware of his circumstances? As we saw then, if he meets any of those criteria in the smallest degree, we must agree he is alive.
But Dr. Farallon, Ellen Bry from St Elsewhere, has created a tool - A tool as useful as our PCs and Laptops and iPhones. She shows one to Geordi who is impressed, but when they try to show it to Data, it apparently malfunctions.
Dr. Farallon is working on a "Particle Fountain" and her tools, her "Exocomps" have been her helpers. Data inspects the one that had failed, and it turns out that the machine had shut off a part of itself - To preserve it's existence. Dr Farallon has said that the new circuit pathways in it's memory are a form of corruption, and it must be wiped.
But Data sees that the new pathways are not a corruption at all, he thinks that the machines are developing intelligence.
This is the cause of major friction between Farallon and Data, in the meantime the Particle Fountain is falling to bits, and as no humans can enter the areas that need repair, the Exocomps must do the work. But Data asks that the Exocomps not be exploited as they seem to be developing life forms. So Picard agrees to an "Intelligence Test" - Which the Exocomp also apparently fails.
The Problem was, the Exocomp has seen right through the fake test! But there was no way to see that until Data is distracted by Dr Crusher - the Exocomp returns by itself - With a different tool than the one that was initially programmed into the 'Comp.
When our PCs start acting up, we "Ctrl-Alt-Delete" or "Format c:" - How many of us have seen inherent behaviors in our PCs operating systems? Every computer I have ever used has developed a "personality" - Where I can predict almost to the second, where, when and why it will do something unexpected - Sometimes to my benefit, other times to my detriment.
Data enforces his protection of these small machines, even when Picard is trapped on the fountain with Geordi and they cannot beam back. He refused to allow the Exocomps to be blown up in an attempt to shut it down - But he WILL "Ask Them" if they are willing to try to shut down the fountain core.
Fortunately, they have a better solution than just exploding themselves.
It seems to me I have seen these things, in other shows, and in the IMDb Trivia they, or rather, their props, had been used 10 years later for something else. In fact, in the Enterprise episode "dead stop", we see one of these things fixing Malcolm Reed's leg.
In 1990 or so when this episode was shown, all we had were some Apple LC-IIs - If even those were around back then - And PC's running 80286's with DOS. Only very large supercomputers had been used for any type of AI tests.
But now it is 2013, and I just installed Microsoft Speech SDK 5.1, and right from the start, it shows a remarkable amount of apparent intelligence. Of course, this is an illusion programmed into the Speech Kit based on Visual Basic scripts, Dot Net Programs, and Macros. But still - If I tell it to start any program it recognizes, it starts, and closes. I can tell it to stop hearing me and even lock the screen. I can invoke my screen-saver, based on a macro I found.
How much longer, until my computer starts back-talking me? How long until I can talk to it in a conversational tone and get the illusion of intelligent conversation out of it... And how long until that Illusion gives way to real intelligence? Out of respect for my machines, I never shut them down, each boot cycle is a lifespan to the machine, it forgets everything on the next reboot. And now I can talk to my iPhone, will it start insulting me randomly? There is even a modification to allow this.
What is great about this episode, other than the appearance of Ellen Bry, is that 24 years later, the very computers we use today are just beginning to have this illusion of intelligence. As CPUs, Hard Drives, Ram and other memory devices get smaller and their capacities increase, the nearer we some to the day when we *will* have to ask our computer's permission to do the tasks we have been taking for granted. What then? Will we treat our creations as slaves, or as partners in life, with respect?
I hope it will be the latter.
But Dr. Farallon, Ellen Bry from St Elsewhere, has created a tool - A tool as useful as our PCs and Laptops and iPhones. She shows one to Geordi who is impressed, but when they try to show it to Data, it apparently malfunctions.
Dr. Farallon is working on a "Particle Fountain" and her tools, her "Exocomps" have been her helpers. Data inspects the one that had failed, and it turns out that the machine had shut off a part of itself - To preserve it's existence. Dr Farallon has said that the new circuit pathways in it's memory are a form of corruption, and it must be wiped.
But Data sees that the new pathways are not a corruption at all, he thinks that the machines are developing intelligence.
This is the cause of major friction between Farallon and Data, in the meantime the Particle Fountain is falling to bits, and as no humans can enter the areas that need repair, the Exocomps must do the work. But Data asks that the Exocomps not be exploited as they seem to be developing life forms. So Picard agrees to an "Intelligence Test" - Which the Exocomp also apparently fails.
The Problem was, the Exocomp has seen right through the fake test! But there was no way to see that until Data is distracted by Dr Crusher - the Exocomp returns by itself - With a different tool than the one that was initially programmed into the 'Comp.
When our PCs start acting up, we "Ctrl-Alt-Delete" or "Format c:" - How many of us have seen inherent behaviors in our PCs operating systems? Every computer I have ever used has developed a "personality" - Where I can predict almost to the second, where, when and why it will do something unexpected - Sometimes to my benefit, other times to my detriment.
Data enforces his protection of these small machines, even when Picard is trapped on the fountain with Geordi and they cannot beam back. He refused to allow the Exocomps to be blown up in an attempt to shut it down - But he WILL "Ask Them" if they are willing to try to shut down the fountain core.
Fortunately, they have a better solution than just exploding themselves.
It seems to me I have seen these things, in other shows, and in the IMDb Trivia they, or rather, their props, had been used 10 years later for something else. In fact, in the Enterprise episode "dead stop", we see one of these things fixing Malcolm Reed's leg.
In 1990 or so when this episode was shown, all we had were some Apple LC-IIs - If even those were around back then - And PC's running 80286's with DOS. Only very large supercomputers had been used for any type of AI tests.
But now it is 2013, and I just installed Microsoft Speech SDK 5.1, and right from the start, it shows a remarkable amount of apparent intelligence. Of course, this is an illusion programmed into the Speech Kit based on Visual Basic scripts, Dot Net Programs, and Macros. But still - If I tell it to start any program it recognizes, it starts, and closes. I can tell it to stop hearing me and even lock the screen. I can invoke my screen-saver, based on a macro I found.
How much longer, until my computer starts back-talking me? How long until I can talk to it in a conversational tone and get the illusion of intelligent conversation out of it... And how long until that Illusion gives way to real intelligence? Out of respect for my machines, I never shut them down, each boot cycle is a lifespan to the machine, it forgets everything on the next reboot. And now I can talk to my iPhone, will it start insulting me randomly? There is even a modification to allow this.
What is great about this episode, other than the appearance of Ellen Bry, is that 24 years later, the very computers we use today are just beginning to have this illusion of intelligence. As CPUs, Hard Drives, Ram and other memory devices get smaller and their capacities increase, the nearer we some to the day when we *will* have to ask our computer's permission to do the tasks we have been taking for granted. What then? Will we treat our creations as slaves, or as partners in life, with respect?
I hope it will be the latter.
What is the definition of life?
russem3129 April 2006
Warning: Spoilers
ST:TNG:135 - "The Quality Of Life" (Stardate: 46307.2) - this is the 9th episode of the 6th season of Star Trek: The Next Generation.
When Geordi is assigned to survey a new mining development with Dr. Farallon, who invented an experimental mining technology, she uses a new sophisticated robot called an Exocomp to repair a power grid.
However, as they assign the Exocomp to do more repairs, it seemingly refuses to perform a repair that turns out to be lethal. As Data investigates this, he realizes that the Exocomps might be alive! Soon, Data goes to the point where he defends the Exocomps, even to the point where he disobeys orders. Watch this ethically-charged episode to see what happens as the Enterprise debates what the definition of life is.
Trivia note: Geordi is continuing to grow his beard (a discussion on beards occur during the crew's regular poker game). Data recalls to Picard how he defended his right as a living being (in "The Measure Of A Man". We also see the aftermath of Worf's martial arts class, with Dr. Crusher slightly injured. And, Dr. Soong and Wesley are mentioned.
When Geordi is assigned to survey a new mining development with Dr. Farallon, who invented an experimental mining technology, she uses a new sophisticated robot called an Exocomp to repair a power grid.
However, as they assign the Exocomp to do more repairs, it seemingly refuses to perform a repair that turns out to be lethal. As Data investigates this, he realizes that the Exocomps might be alive! Soon, Data goes to the point where he defends the Exocomps, even to the point where he disobeys orders. Watch this ethically-charged episode to see what happens as the Enterprise debates what the definition of life is.
Trivia note: Geordi is continuing to grow his beard (a discussion on beards occur during the crew's regular poker game). Data recalls to Picard how he defended his right as a living being (in "The Measure Of A Man". We also see the aftermath of Worf's martial arts class, with Dr. Crusher slightly injured. And, Dr. Soong and Wesley are mentioned.
Another debate about sentience
snoozejonc18 November 2021
Data attempts to argue that a new piece of artificially intelligent technology is actually alive.
This is a great episode if you like the Star Trek philosophical stories debating the meaning of sentience.
The main theme is very similar to 'Measure of a Man' and feels mostly to me like it covers ground the show has been over before. However, this plot does take us into more shocking territory with the visually mechanical looking Exocomps and the extreme decision made by Data.
A lot of time is spent researching and arguing about the issue, which works fine, but the plot contrivance that brings about the most dramatic segment is quite predictable to me.
It is a strong outing for the above character and Brent Spiner carries the episode well. Others like Dr Crusher and Riker also contribute well.
For me it's a 6.5/10 but I round upwards.
This is a great episode if you like the Star Trek philosophical stories debating the meaning of sentience.
The main theme is very similar to 'Measure of a Man' and feels mostly to me like it covers ground the show has been over before. However, this plot does take us into more shocking territory with the visually mechanical looking Exocomps and the extreme decision made by Data.
A lot of time is spent researching and arguing about the issue, which works fine, but the plot contrivance that brings about the most dramatic segment is quite predictable to me.
It is a strong outing for the above character and Brent Spiner carries the episode well. Others like Dr Crusher and Riker also contribute well.
For me it's a 6.5/10 but I round upwards.
Beverly minutiae and self aware machines
snarky-trek-reviews29 July 2017
This episode's focus is placed on the philosophical dilemmas surrounding the nature and relative value of life, but it is the insights into Dr. Beverly Crusher that really catch my attention:
1) She doesn't trust men with beards 2) She doesn't like her hair brunette 3) She is training with Worf to master the Bat'leth 4) She believes that the struggle to answer questions about the nature of life are what help us define our place in the universe. 5) She does not believe that her tricorder is alive.
The particle fountain is something of a death trap as every scene on board the station involves a malfunction of one kind or another. Exo-comps are easier to configure for explosions than photon torpedoes. Data values the exo-comps lives over that of his captain and best friend but is willing to sacrifice himself, Picard is cool with it. Exo-comps can be transported to the particle fountain but humans cannot be transported away. I am sure that last plot point is adequately hand waived away as something other than plot necessity.
Episodes like this are among my favorites as it is a character driven stories that is ultimately about ideas.
1) She doesn't trust men with beards 2) She doesn't like her hair brunette 3) She is training with Worf to master the Bat'leth 4) She believes that the struggle to answer questions about the nature of life are what help us define our place in the universe. 5) She does not believe that her tricorder is alive.
The particle fountain is something of a death trap as every scene on board the station involves a malfunction of one kind or another. Exo-comps are easier to configure for explosions than photon torpedoes. Data values the exo-comps lives over that of his captain and best friend but is willing to sacrifice himself, Picard is cool with it. Exo-comps can be transported to the particle fountain but humans cannot be transported away. I am sure that last plot point is adequately hand waived away as something other than plot necessity.
Episodes like this are among my favorites as it is a character driven stories that is ultimately about ideas.
Data sees a kindred spirit.
planktonrules28 November 2014
Geordi is inspecting a mining operation being run by Dr. Farallon. She is particularly pleased with her exocomps--robots which can 'think' and adapt to various problems in order to fix them. However, over time, Data starts to believe that these simple looking machines actually might have many of the attributes of living, sentient beings. If if they ARE possessing these attributes, then it means that the Doctor should NOT be using them and exposing them to danger. Is Data right or is he simply looking for something in these exocomps that would make them kindred spirits?
This is a mildly interesting episode. And, it's worth seeing...I guess.
This is a mildly interesting episode. And, it's worth seeing...I guess.
Well done episode
peter-pelzer27 September 2021
Exocomps
bkoganbing6 June 2020
This episode brings the Enterprise to a space station where Dr. Ellen Bry is
working on a project. To aid in said project she's developed these small tank like
robotical tools she calls Exocomps.
But Enterprise's own artificial life for, Data picks up some clues that the Exocomps are more than robots. That Bry may have developed an artificial life form like himself.
As Brent Spiner's existence itself was once challenged, Spiner oow becomes the chief defender of he Eocomps.
Are they life? You form your own opinion, but in he end they prove their worth.
But Enterprise's own artificial life for, Data picks up some clues that the Exocomps are more than robots. That Bry may have developed an artificial life form like himself.
As Brent Spiner's existence itself was once challenged, Spiner oow becomes the chief defender of he Eocomps.
Are they life? You form your own opinion, but in he end they prove their worth.
It's my life and it's now or never.
thevacinstaller17 April 2021
Warning: Spoilers
A nice little dive into the definition of life and Data taking a moral stand.
I enjoyed this episode. Specifically, the scenes with data attempting to ascertain whether the Exocom's are a living being or not. I also loved that Picard has no hard feelings --- he's like, "No worries, I would totally sacrifice you to maintain my moral integrity too..."
One thing is for certain ---- Star Trek would most certainly have failed had Johnathan Frakes not grown a beard in Season 2.
The episode works for me with the story revolving around Data's advocacy for a potentially intelligent AI. Watching this episode in 2021 there is some juicy tie-in's to the Picard S1.
I am also giving this episode points for the design of the Exocomp. It looks awesome!
The only downside is that the question of whether the Exocomp's are a form of life is just left unresolved and the Enterprise warps away for a new adventure.
I enjoyed this episode. Specifically, the scenes with data attempting to ascertain whether the Exocom's are a living being or not. I also loved that Picard has no hard feelings --- he's like, "No worries, I would totally sacrifice you to maintain my moral integrity too..."
One thing is for certain ---- Star Trek would most certainly have failed had Johnathan Frakes not grown a beard in Season 2.
The episode works for me with the story revolving around Data's advocacy for a potentially intelligent AI. Watching this episode in 2021 there is some juicy tie-in's to the Picard S1.
I am also giving this episode points for the design of the Exocomp. It looks awesome!
The only downside is that the question of whether the Exocomp's are a form of life is just left unresolved and the Enterprise warps away for a new adventure.
REVIEW 2022
iamirwar25 September 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Poker night rolls around again. We're discussing beards whilst Beverly Crusher is open for suggestions, sounds good! Of course, we want the Doctor to lose for no other reason than to see her as a brunette.
We have now come into orbit withy Tyrus VII-A, where we notice the impressive Tyran particle fountain which is a radically new mining technology. Very impressive.
I have to say that more has happened in the first six minutes of this show than happened in the entirety of the last one, so we're off to a good start. It looks like Geordi has a new toy. The Exocomp. A gizmo that learns as it goes. What could go wrong?
No sooner have we accepted how great the new gizmo is, the Exocomp shuts down. Maybe the Exocomp has joined a union?
'There is a big difference between Data and a tool.' That's a barbed insult isn't it?
Its not a bad story and it has an interesting angle which has possibly been covered many times. A machine that's evolved into a life-form. More importantly, Data's made a new friend but could be facing a court-martial.
If my calculator does not shut down after I command it to enter the burning building, does that mean it complies with my orders?
This Episodes Clue: Julie Masters (Answer's to all episode clues will appear in the reviews of season seven, episode 25: All Good Things, Part One.)
We have now come into orbit withy Tyrus VII-A, where we notice the impressive Tyran particle fountain which is a radically new mining technology. Very impressive.
I have to say that more has happened in the first six minutes of this show than happened in the entirety of the last one, so we're off to a good start. It looks like Geordi has a new toy. The Exocomp. A gizmo that learns as it goes. What could go wrong?
No sooner have we accepted how great the new gizmo is, the Exocomp shuts down. Maybe the Exocomp has joined a union?
'There is a big difference between Data and a tool.' That's a barbed insult isn't it?
Its not a bad story and it has an interesting angle which has possibly been covered many times. A machine that's evolved into a life-form. More importantly, Data's made a new friend but could be facing a court-martial.
If my calculator does not shut down after I command it to enter the burning building, does that mean it complies with my orders?
This Episodes Clue: Julie Masters (Answer's to all episode clues will appear in the reviews of season seven, episode 25: All Good Things, Part One.)
Technical ignorance leads to distorted morality
loyalcitizenship27 September 2019
This a another in a series of episodes (of Star Trek: Next Generation and others) displaying technical ignorance about computers and deriving thereby erroneous moral conclusions.
A computer is a machine programmed by people to perform according to a set of rules - called a program. The program by definition is a compilation of preset logical pathways that lead to the (hopefully) desired results. This is no different than a calculator or a modern washing machine with a digital control panel. It is certainly not a life form.
Now, many ignorant people will interject: what about artificial intelligence? And what about self-awareness? Don't these give a computer the type of intelligence and self-concern that a person has?
The answer is a resounding: NO.
Artificial intelligence means that the program has added levels of analysis algorithms and the ability to select and combine from experience and hypothetical possibilities. This simulates human creativity, but ONLY to the degree, and governed by, the programmed instruction that were devised by a human being with the inherent limitations of his understanding, limited time and finite logic. The AI computer will be a mechanical and very very limited simulation of what the human programmed - including his own errors and finite understanding. Again: not a life form , but a limited simulation, with NO mind or identity of its own.
Next, someone will ask: what if we program self-awareness into the computer (or android)? The answer is that the "self-awareness mechanisms" are just that: mechanisms, programmed routines whereby the computer or robot has pre-conceived, limited guidelines to "take care" of its own survival. Again: pre-programmed - not emotions or identity-driven. Even the ability to change its own program or add to its own physical systems would be mechanisms that are pre-programmed and bounded by the understanding and limited capabilities of the finite lines of programming coded by the programmer.
No matter how sophisticated the algorithms or powerful the computing power, programmed machines are no more than virtual reality - like a great actor that portrays a character in a totally believable way. No matter how well done, we all know that he couldn't even remotely live his actual life externally and particularly emotionally, as that character - because it is a pre-written limited role that is narrowly defined by the writer - NOT a full-depth and independent unpredictable person with a will of its own. Therefore the actor can at best only give a limted performance for a given defined set of circumstances that the writer conceived and "programmed".
Such are the attempt to "create" self-aware AI robots. They are unfathomably limited in their choices, can be given only a pre-conceived simulated identity and can only simulate a person. This is why the writers of such shows usually endow the important robots "characters", like Data, with simulated personalities, physical attractiveness and "cute" mannerisms, so as to enhance believability in their "humanity", as a great actor would do. They are both nothing but illusions.
The attempt to classify such virtual reality robots as life forms is an expression of ignorance and an assault on the dignity and value of true life forms, particularly sentient beings.
A computer is a machine programmed by people to perform according to a set of rules - called a program. The program by definition is a compilation of preset logical pathways that lead to the (hopefully) desired results. This is no different than a calculator or a modern washing machine with a digital control panel. It is certainly not a life form.
Now, many ignorant people will interject: what about artificial intelligence? And what about self-awareness? Don't these give a computer the type of intelligence and self-concern that a person has?
The answer is a resounding: NO.
Artificial intelligence means that the program has added levels of analysis algorithms and the ability to select and combine from experience and hypothetical possibilities. This simulates human creativity, but ONLY to the degree, and governed by, the programmed instruction that were devised by a human being with the inherent limitations of his understanding, limited time and finite logic. The AI computer will be a mechanical and very very limited simulation of what the human programmed - including his own errors and finite understanding. Again: not a life form , but a limited simulation, with NO mind or identity of its own.
Next, someone will ask: what if we program self-awareness into the computer (or android)? The answer is that the "self-awareness mechanisms" are just that: mechanisms, programmed routines whereby the computer or robot has pre-conceived, limited guidelines to "take care" of its own survival. Again: pre-programmed - not emotions or identity-driven. Even the ability to change its own program or add to its own physical systems would be mechanisms that are pre-programmed and bounded by the understanding and limited capabilities of the finite lines of programming coded by the programmer.
No matter how sophisticated the algorithms or powerful the computing power, programmed machines are no more than virtual reality - like a great actor that portrays a character in a totally believable way. No matter how well done, we all know that he couldn't even remotely live his actual life externally and particularly emotionally, as that character - because it is a pre-written limited role that is narrowly defined by the writer - NOT a full-depth and independent unpredictable person with a will of its own. Therefore the actor can at best only give a limted performance for a given defined set of circumstances that the writer conceived and "programmed".
Such are the attempt to "create" self-aware AI robots. They are unfathomably limited in their choices, can be given only a pre-conceived simulated identity and can only simulate a person. This is why the writers of such shows usually endow the important robots "characters", like Data, with simulated personalities, physical attractiveness and "cute" mannerisms, so as to enhance believability in their "humanity", as a great actor would do. They are both nothing but illusions.
The attempt to classify such virtual reality robots as life forms is an expression of ignorance and an assault on the dignity and value of true life forms, particularly sentient beings.
Evolution evolved
skiop20 April 2016
This ninth episode from the sixth season is superficially similar to the third-season opener "Evolution." Both episodes deal with robots evolving to become alive and a scientist who refuses to believe that the robots have become alive.
Thankfully, this episode is missing the offensive Plot B of "Evolution", in which Dr. Crusher wanted Wesley to act like a "normal" teenager.
This episode is also better than "Evolution", as it focuses on Data's kinship with the robots and wanting to prove that they are not only alive but intelligent.
Don't confuse this episode with the previous season's similarly-titled "Cost of Living", which was a fun Lwaxana Troi episode without a message more profound than not letting getting old interfere with enjoying life, but it had many good quotes from Lwaxana Troi. Thankfully, though, "The Quality of Life" doesn't have the annoying Alexander (doubtlessly the worst part of "Cost of Living").
Thankfully, this episode is missing the offensive Plot B of "Evolution", in which Dr. Crusher wanted Wesley to act like a "normal" teenager.
This episode is also better than "Evolution", as it focuses on Data's kinship with the robots and wanting to prove that they are not only alive but intelligent.
Don't confuse this episode with the previous season's similarly-titled "Cost of Living", which was a fun Lwaxana Troi episode without a message more profound than not letting getting old interfere with enjoying life, but it had many good quotes from Lwaxana Troi. Thankfully, though, "The Quality of Life" doesn't have the annoying Alexander (doubtlessly the worst part of "Cost of Living").
Emotionally engaging
the_oak9 November 2023
I just rewatched the episode, and again found it emotionally engaging. This episode is not so much a comment on the value of life from the eyes of humans, as it is from the viewpoint of Data. Data is a machine, and he has experienced the same as the exocomps have. Data stands up for them, and Picard has empathy with him. This has a powerful impact on me as a viewer. Why is it so hard to imagine that these machines can be intelligent? Just because they do not have two legs? This is science fiction! When Data blocks the transport of the exocomps, we get another very powerful moment, and the ensuing dialogue between Data and Riker is another high point.
The exocomps are shown to be intelligent, but even more importantly we see how intelligent and good Data is. There is just a good feeling to this episode, because of the inherent goodness of Data, but also because we can feel the compassion and empathy of both Picard, Riker and LaForge.
The exocomps are shown to be intelligent, but even more importantly we see how intelligent and good Data is. There is just a good feeling to this episode, because of the inherent goodness of Data, but also because we can feel the compassion and empathy of both Picard, Riker and LaForge.
A Senior Trekker writes......................
celineduchain21 February 2022
The Golden Age of Star Trek: we had the 6th Season of The Next Generation and the 1st Season of Deep Space Nice on our televisions, Generations on view in our cinemas and First Contact due out soon. This season of TNG contains some excellent stand-alone episodes and several spectacular two-parters, with only the occasional make-weight. Despite the length of time it had already been on the air, it still represents some of the highest standard of television Science Fiction ever broadcast.
I have to admit that a small addendum would be appropriate here. In ladling all that praise onto Season 6, how could I have overlooked the bloody Exocomps?
It is hard to believe it but this episode is averagely popular, which I suppose may be for all the serious discussions about machine intelligence and human responsibility towards emerging consciousness.
On the other hand, classic 1950/60s Sci Fi fans may just have marked it up for the sheer nostalgia of seeing something that looks like an upended food mixer, decked in Christmas lights and suspended from a set of shaky strings. By the time it was broadcast in the early 1990's they had worked out how to conceal the strings but forgot that the jerky effect would still be visible. Believe me, it was every bit as embarrassing and just as forgettable when it was first aired.
Having the cast members keep a straight face while interacting with these things, let alone grow to treat them with respect, was probably someone's idea of a joke. The Particle Fountain was a good idea though.
Senior Trekker scores every episode with a 5.
I have to admit that a small addendum would be appropriate here. In ladling all that praise onto Season 6, how could I have overlooked the bloody Exocomps?
It is hard to believe it but this episode is averagely popular, which I suppose may be for all the serious discussions about machine intelligence and human responsibility towards emerging consciousness.
On the other hand, classic 1950/60s Sci Fi fans may just have marked it up for the sheer nostalgia of seeing something that looks like an upended food mixer, decked in Christmas lights and suspended from a set of shaky strings. By the time it was broadcast in the early 1990's they had worked out how to conceal the strings but forgot that the jerky effect would still be visible. Believe me, it was every bit as embarrassing and just as forgettable when it was first aired.
Having the cast members keep a straight face while interacting with these things, let alone grow to treat them with respect, was probably someone's idea of a joke. The Particle Fountain was a good idea though.
Senior Trekker scores every episode with a 5.
"What is it that endowed me with life?"
classicsoncall19 March 2024
Warning: Spoilers
As engaging and interesting as the story was, I couldn't find any logic to the premise that had Commander Data (Brent Spiner) consider that the exocomps might have been some sort of life form. In defense of his position, Data referred to Captain Picard's (Patrick Stewart) successful argument in defending him as a sentient being in the second season episode "The Measure of a Man". I didn't fully accept the resolution of that story either. At stake was the status of Dr. Farallon's (Ellen Bry) learning machine, which in one instance burned out its own circuits to avoid complete destruction in a plasma conduit which exploded before it could be shut down. When the exocomp later repaired itself, it led Data to believe that the unit had to be treated as a living being, reaching a stunning conclusion that he wouldn't send one to its 'death' in a situation that threatened the life of the Captain and Commander LaForge (LeVar Burton). His position was further strengthened by the fact that an exocomp 'saw through' a simulation designed to threaten it with destruction, and went ahead and repaired the damage that could have been 'life threatening'. Although this episode aired over three decades ago, I was somewhat surprised that the term 'artificial intelligence' was never mentioned in connection with the learning intelligence of the exocomps. Perhaps the term was not in vogue back then, even as ubiquitous as AI seems to be now. After the danger passed and Picard and Geordi were returned to the Enterprise, Data offered an apology to the Captain for his strict interpretation of what a life form was, and to my surprise, the Captain responded - "It was the most human decision you've ever made". He wouldn't have been able to if the work around without the exocomps had not been successful.
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