Ep 19. Selfish Dick

In the 19th episode of season 1 of 3rd Rock from the Sun, titled "Selfish Dick," the Solomons are presented with a difficult ethical dilemma when Sally accidentally injures a co-worker with her superhuman strength at the insurance office where they all work. Sally is wracked with guilt over what she has done, but Dick (John Lithgow), feeling that his own future career prospects might be jeopardized if the truth comes out, tries to persuade Sally to keep quiet about the incident.

Meanwhile, Harry (French Stewart) becomes obsessed with collecting golf balls, which he thinks will lead him to fame and fortune, and Tommy (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) meets a girl who might be even more intellectual and hyper-rational than he is.

As the episode progresses, tensions rise among the Solomons, as Dick's selfishness and desire to protect his own interests come into direct conflict with Sally's moral compass. Matters are complicated further when Harry stumbles across a possible source of golf balls that also happens to be a secret military installation. Eventually, the situation comes to a head, and the Solomons are forced to make some tough decisions about what kind of people they want to be.

Throughout it all, the show's trademark blend of wacky humor and social commentary is on full display, as 3rd Rock from the Sun continues to explore what it means to be human from the perspective of a group of aliens who are continually baffled and amused by our strange ways. "Selfish Dick" is a standout episode of the show's first season, showcasing the talents of its talented ensemble cast and its gift for blending satire and heart.