Star Trek: The Next Generation blended speculative science fiction and space opera in its portrayal of communication. Multiple modes of communication used between characters are presented and the multilevel tapestry of communication in the series is critical in its appeal.This book proposes that these patterns of communication reveal a foundational philosophy of Star Trek (while enticing millions of viewers). These patterns serve both to cause strong empathetic connections with characters and to impel viewers to form relationships with the show, explaining their extreme devotion.

Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentsIntroductionLaunching The Next GenerationThe Twin Strains of Sci FiOne-BackgroundScience Fiction from Shelley to Star WarsGrowth of a GenreStar Trek's GenerationsThe New VoyagesContextual Communication TheoriesTwo-The Intrapersonal ContextData and Symbolic InteractionismGender Differences, Worf and TroiCharacter Realization with Picard, Riker, Crusher and La ForgeSummaryThree-The Interpersonal ContextThe ­Parent-Child DyadThe ­Mentor-Protégé DyadThe Friendship DyadThe Romance DyadSummaryFour-The Group and Organizational ContextsThe Enterprise Command Crew as a GroupStarfleet as an OrganizationSummaryFive-The Mass Communication Context, Part IIntrapersonal Issues: Philosophy of The Next GenerationInterpersonal Issues: Parasocial InteractionsSix-The Mass Communication Context, Part IIGroup/Organizational Issues: Fans and TextsSeven-Next Frontiers for Communication ContextsIntrapersonal Issues on Star Trek: Discovery-Michael Burnham and the Four LovesInterpersonal Issues on Star Trek: VoyagerGroup/Organizational Issues on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine-Organizational Dissent and the MaquisAudience/Artifact Relationship with Star Trek: Enterprise-Reception TheorySummaryConclusionExpanding the UniverseTrek TechThe True Legacy"The sky's the limit"Appendix A: List of Star Trek: The Next Generation EpisodesAppendix B: Research Instrument for Star Trek SurveyChapter NotesBibliographyIndex