The Drumhead

I watched an episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation called The Drumhead which I have entitled this post. It first aired the 29th of April 1991 but could have been written and aired on television yesterday. I love soft science fiction and the important messages we can receive from a well written episode, of a truth that never changes and our role in society as participant and observer.
A drumhead trial is an unfair, biased, or hasty judicial proceeding that ends in a harsh punishment. A drumhead trial is very similar to a kangaroo court, but a drumhead trial is more like a court martial held in the field to punish soldiers. Thus, the setting of the Enterprise with Admiral Satie coming aboard to conduct the swift investigation and ultimately put on trial Captain Picard, is the perfect example of a drumhead trial.
What I find very interesting is that 10 short years after this episode aired, the US faced very difficult times and citizens gave up precious rights and liberties in the face of great fear. I live at a border with the US and the changes I saw take place in such a short time just in terms of border crossing alone, was staggering. It was amazing to me personally how swiftly people were willing to give up certain liberties when faced with a perceived threat.
As I watched this episode, I felt that the writer really understood the lessons of history and how important it is that we do not forget what history has taught us, make sure we understand it, and be willing to stand up for ourselves even in a climate in which fear seems to be stronger than any other emotion.
Wow, what an episode and it was a delight to watch it. Here is my favorite quote from the show and a clip.
"We think we've come so far. Torture of heretics, burning of witches, is all ancient history. And then, before you can blink an eye, suddenly it threatens to start all over again."

- Picard, to Worf