Ep 21. Symbiosis*

Star Trek: The Next Generation season 1 episode 21, titled "Symbiosis," follows the Enterprise crew as they encounter two neighboring planets, Ornar and Brekka, whose inhabitants have been engaged in a symbiotic relationship for centuries. Ornarians provide a medicine that Brekkians require to survive, and in return, the Brekkians provide various goods and services.

As the Enterprise approaches the planets, they witness a Brekkan ship in distress. Captain Jean-Luc Picard orders his crew to offer assistance, despite their unfamiliarity with the Brekkan ship's technology. The captain is surprised to discover that the vessel is carrying a shipment of the medicine provided by the Ornarians.

The Enterprise crew travels to Brekka to deliver the medicine, and while there, they witness the dysfunctional relationship between the two planets. The Ornar government has been exploiting the Brekkians by artificially withholding the medicine to maintain power and increase profit. Meanwhile, the Brekkians believe that they cannot survive without the medicine and are willing to pay any price to obtain it.

The crew becomes embroiled in the planets' conflict as they attempt to determine a solution that benefits both species. However, they are met with resistance from the Ornar government, which has no interest in a fair solution.

"Symbiosis" explores themes of exploitation, dependency, and the moral obligation to intervene in a harmful situation. It prompts the crew and viewers to question the ethics surrounding the Ornar and Brekkan relationship and consider the repercussions of blindly accepting a symbiotic relationship without fully understanding its implications.

The episode also showcases the Enterprise crew's dedication to their mission of seeking out and helping other civilizations. Through diplomacy and negotiation, they work to ensure a fair and just outcome for the Ornarians and Brekkians, despite the challenges they face.

Overall, "Symbiosis" is a thought-provoking episode that raises important questions about the nature of symbiotic relationships and the responsibilities that come with them. It provides an engaging storyline that allows viewers to explore the complexities of moral decision-making, diplomacy, and intervention, all while enjoying the thrilling adventure that is Star Trek: The Next Generation.