Data's planned parenthood truly dismays Picard.

S03E16

[@mabiniss2]

I love how Picard acts like a Dad to Data in this scene as if Data had just impregnated his girlfriend or something.

[@oatmealboy6]

We'll keep the android in her room for 9 months and then tell everyone she's your mother's.

[@George040270]

Data impregnated Picard's girlfriend? What?

[@khemmeta]

Oh! NOW I feel like I understand what the writers were going for. That was a bit too much fire for just, "I can't believe you'd want to make another android!"

[@Archone666]

In his defense, Lal proved to be one hell of a hassle. Especially when the state (i.e. the Starfleet Admiral) tried to take the child away and declare Data unfit. Or even just the general difficulties... "Are you saying your daughter sexually assaulted my first officer?" "Under Guinan's supervision, yes. She appears to have been confused regarding that particular aspect of personal interaction." "...And people wonder why we need a ship's counselor..."

[@arthurbrandonnielsen]

This is, I think, what they were aiming for. It's not that Data created an offspring, but that he didn't tell anyone, like a pair of teenagers trying to hide a pregnancy. And it's not like it happened overnight. It would have taken Data at least a few weeks, if not a few months, to create Lal. I think by the end of the conversation, Data realized what really concerned Picard, and was able to reassure him.

[@joshuadesautels]

"I have not observed other crew members consulting you about their procreation, Captain." Data's right, of course!

[@katieking165]

This line had me in absolute pieces - it’s quite right of him to point it out and completely shows up Picard. Absolutely wonderful writing and acting... the other time I was in stitches in this otherwise so deep and deeply sad episode was when Lal kisses Riker and Data walks in and asks something like “what are your intentions toward my daughter?” 🤣😭

[@GoddessPallasAthena]

Data has a way of wording things that show the constant discrepancy between the way he is treated and the way organic life-forms are treated, even by very well-meaning people, incl. his friends and immediate superiors. Generally, this is enough to open the Captain's (and other close crew members') eyes. But Starfleet, in general, not so much. But yes, Data is absolutely right.

[@Charmolution]

He's wrong, though. He doesn't realize that Picard insists on knowing all the dirty dealings going on on his ship. He's a dirty, voyeuristic old man that enjoys sticking his nose where it doesn't belong.

[@eyescreamcake]

@@Charmolution Yeah, Picard just sits around watching everyone on the ship kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHXUomRuoNZ6rNU

[@courtney-ray]

I was looking for THAT particular line. It’s not in this scene though unfortunately

[@ricoc4728]

Captain Picard just angry Data didn't use protection, encryption.

[@beachmasterX]

Rico C he did she had a firewall

[@mitchhaelann9215]

Well, no. Remember: Picard hates kids. They had to basically blackmail him into allowing Wesley onto the bridge, or even on the ship. And now there's one that he might actually have to be personally responsible for. Yeah, he's pissed.

[@TheRealNormanBates]

Well he _does_ have rubber around the wires.

[@littleturtle1610]

He better he can get computer viruses now days better go to Silicon Valley they get his computer chip silicone coated😃

[@doom7ish]

Ah! XD

[@willerwin3201]

So this scene is where we get the "Double Face-Palm Picard" meme.

[@iamdmc]

yes but single face palm meme is better

[@andrewlaporte5477]

One face palm = Q Double face palm = kids ...okay...

[@artman2oo3]

I had the same thought!

[@KnightRaymund]

@@andrewlaporte5477 lol

[@charlesbrockman3299]

The only double facepalm that every parent of a teen gets.

[@gaoutlaw]

"And what Klingons do to their children...." for whatever reason, that line is oddly funny.

[@M0T0M451]

Of course, we know for a fact that Worf 'does not play with boys'.

[@Pikamander2]

"Thank you, Mr. Data"

[@thecianinator]

Doing something "to" your child instead of "with" your child or "for" your child seems like a very Klingon way of thinking about parenting, the implication is kind of hilarious

[@jimmyzhao2673]

Pain Sticks

[@rudyredcat425]

Klingon moms would make tiger mothers look like pussies

[@murrayc9615]

Picard: "What you have done, will have serious ramifications" Fast forward 25 years... "Star Trek: PICARD"

[@Tylerpierre99]

I don't think the writers had any idea what those ramifications would be.

[@paladinboyd1228]

Murray C, Data why!?

[@Cjnw]

ST:P = Steaming Turd Pile

[@officialkidwizard]

ST:P = seriously terrible program

[@JonnySublime]

As a fan since the 80's, kind of disappointing.

[@solarisone1082]

Data's expression at Picard's double facepalm is priceless.

[@rowlandbuck2703]

Reminds me of a curious cat for some reason.

[@BioGoji-zm5ph]

Data: All I did was tell him that the consequences of creating a new life are indeed a description of becoming a parent. Why is he so dismayed? Picard: Why won't Data feel bad when I scold him?!

[@nitehawk86]

The Original Double Facepalm, and the best.

[@specialnewb9821]

He looks like he's trying to peek under Picard's hands at 1:23! Lmao!

[@GoddessPallasAthena]

It's adorable!!

[@TheBadGuy235]

Have you ever gotten the feeling that Data always had emotions and was just totally trolling everybody around him?

[@Foxingg]

Data often states that "He does not feel emotions like a human." I think that too many people often confuse that to mean he feels no emotion at all, but rather it means his emotions and how he processes and expresses them are simply different, though definitely still there. After all, does an ant feel no pain or hunger or happiness simply because it lacks the hormonal glands of a human or the ability to communicate through language? All sentient beings, in some way or form, feel something; even modern day computers.

[@Sujad]

@@Foxingg Printer. You meant to say printer. Computers are completely neutral. It's printers that are the pure manifestation of hatred that technology feels for us.

[@spyrofan9681]

Like the tin man he always had a heart and just didn't realise.

[@elonwhatever]

@@Sujad show us where the bad printer touched you.

[@Sujad]

@@elonwhatever I work tech support. So everywhere.

[@Archedgar]

They both have pretty good points.... and that's what we call "Good writing.", Picard doesn't in fact object to Data creating Lal, in fact he even defends her when Data asks if Lal should be de-activated, however Picard correctly points out that this is extremely unorthodox due to Data creating what is essentially the only other Soong type android (Aside from Lore obviously but he doesn't count right now). The fact that Picard defends him even further later in the episode is even better.

[@joshuagiehll3737]

Picard wasn't mad that he did it. It was more a concern that he did it without realizing the full ramifications of his actions.

[@themocaw]

I read this as more Picard wishing Data had given him a heads up so he could fend off the vultures at Daystrom Institute.

[@MaxxCoyote]

@Lady Seashell Bikini Data is a super strong, super fast being who once casually took over the entire ship without even knowing he was doing it. He could have killed everyone on board, and they couldn't have stopped him. Now he's created another one just like that, and there is basically no evidence, either way, for what such a being might choose to do. See Lore. Also, Picard has to realize that Starfleet is going to try and do....exactly what they did in this episode.

[@tonoornottono]

it’s more of a Data-type android if you follow me

[@Threadbare78]

Just trying to back up his Data...

[@brendalg4]

you win the internet

[@hannibustoogfyrre6074]

He did it for the Lals.

[@festethephule7553]

@@hannibustoogfyrre6074 Ugh.

[@TheSm1thers]

Not really. Picard is a very philosophical and intelligent man who is shown to stubbornly stick by his beliefs. He has an incredibly strong moral code based on his studies and a way of thinking that makes sense and has good arguments for it. He genuinely believes Data is a life form, who he also believes has the right to raise his child. If Androids like Data and Lal are eventually going to be created, treating them badly could result in a negative reputation of humans by Androids, which we obviously don't want. That could also be how Picard sees it. It's the same approach Starfleet has taken with other life forms and has been a safe and mutually beneficial one in general, so why not take that same approach with Androids? You see in the episode how Data wants to raise Lal so she'll take an interest in Starfleet as his "way of saying thanks". Picard also genuinely believes that because Lal has human emotions, she can directly equate to human life and therefore has rights as an individual.

[@cwinowich]

Greatest comment award.

[@Jordanime]

"The Federation can't tell me what to do with my body, sir."

[@firetopman]

Can not

[@jkees6751]

@@firetopman Omg yes

[@Cx10110100]

Its not just your body though

[@Vijay-tg7hf]

You used a contraction!

[@drzerogi]

@@Vijay-tg7hf Sir, I can explain if you just give me a moment to-

[@Leomhaiin]

“It’s a life Data! It can’t be activated and deactivated simply!” My favorite line the captain said with all the D and T in it making it so sound so much better.

[@youknowwhoyouare2269]

Read it in Borat's voice

[@mikesecor6074]

its a machine, just like Data, yes it can. in fact, they should have not built Data.

[@rootfish2671]

Robo abortion

[@artist4308]

My issue with this line in reaction to Data's suggestion that they deactivate Lal is that it immediately flies in the face of the reasoning for why Picard is upset in the first place. If he considers Lal to be a life, and therefore has intrinsic rights preventing her involuntary deactivation, then it is absolutely none of Picard's business that Data engage in an act of "reproduction". I know this is also the point of the dialogue occurring in the scene, but it just makes Picard look uncharacteristically dim for having flown off the handle.

[@MidnightEkaki]

"What you have done... will have serious ramifications. Im truly dismayed.. that you told no -one of what you were doing!" "I am sorry, dad"

[@ThisisalGOOGLESCHANNEL]

"I'm sorry that the creation of my daughter has dissapointed you, sir. Perhaps you would feel better if you created an epic meme..."

[@bromtaegan4606]

Was that... A contraction?

[@ThisisalGOOGLESCHANNEL]

@@bromtaegan4606 he created his daughter he didn't birth her :)

[@jakep1979]

Damn it I wanted to know what Klingon's do to their children!!! damn you Picard!

[@eldadmaster]

probably same as "spare the rod" only with blades and firearms...

[@ThePathStrider]

More like painsticks.

[@TheRealNormanBates]

I think they cuddle their children and pamper them.. until their 16th birthday when they become a legal adult, and THEN they are severly beaten around the face. This is done to make them appreciate what comforts life offers WHEN they are offered. NEVER take anything for granted, for life itself can take it all away... and your parents suck, especially after you hit puberty.

[@robjackson5245]

@@TheRealNormanBates Pre-TNG Russian Klingons yes, not the more black Klingons of later, who are more gangsta. They don't coddle their kids for shit. XD

[@aarongreenfield9038]

They throw them in a Room with a Vicious targ, if they do not come out alive, they are not worthy!

[@MagnusSkiptonLLC]

This is Star Trek at it's best. No battles, no evil villains. Just moral and ethical issues, trying to figure out how best to act when a dicey situation presents itself. ...and, of course, a deus ex machina that obviates having to make a definitive decision :/

[@paulcoy9060]

Can you imagine if Star Trek: Discovery did one like this?

[@MMaRsu]

@@paulcoy9060 lol it would be hilarious

[@theAngryscotman]

Well I suppose they need ex Machina it before they make a decision. Otherwise they’d ask all these interesting questions and just hand us the answers.

[@swishfish8858]

But if THEY made the decision, then it wouldn't be left for US to do so. That's what the Prime Directive is all about, acknowledging that the crew of the Enterprise are not the be-all-end-all arbiters of morality and righteousness in the galaxy, be it their galaxy or ours. It's up to us to make these choices for ourselves, not do as Picard or Riker or Kirk or Spock do.

[@theAngryscotman]

Swish Fish exactly. That’s just what I was getting at only much better put haha

[@_Keith_]

Such good vocabulary. Every episode is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. Star Trek TNG was and still is lightyears ahead of any other show.

[@sillygoose635]

there are tons of others but sure

[@JonnySublime]

Back when shows had enough quality to make full seasons.

[@genericnameman7899]

"thing I like is by far the best thing"

[@MrNoot39449]

@@genericnameman7899 Can you prove him wrong?

[@ddan7242]

@@MrNoot39449 thats the thing, its an opinion. Its a subjective topic that cant be proved because different people like different things. So he doesnt have to prove him wrong.

[@dozierc]

1:19 Tea, Earl Grey.....with vodka.

[@cryptoxenologist]

Heavy on the vodka. Lol

[@reichlinsmall9765]

Aldebran Whiskey.

[@cleanerben9636]

Computer, dip a teabag in some Russian standard. Make that two.

[@OldieWan]

Make that a double!

[@DrCuriensapprentice]

And a giant blunt

[@mylahobbit1815]

my #1 favorite face picard makes is "god damn it, data is using my own arguments against me and it's working"

[@keggerous]

I love Picard because he didn't just bark orders at people and expect everyone to do what he said. He gave his crew their day in court and would listen to them, hear out their ideas, and go from there.

[@kinbolluck476]

ITS A SHIP FILLED WITH CHILDREN AND COMMUNITY CENTERS

[@themocaw]

"Dammit, Data, we had a trial about this last year, and you nearly got taken apart! I had to argue metaphysics over it! You could have given me a heads-up to get my legal briefs in order!"

[@axelwulf6220]

"I have read all possible information on parenting, but there seems to be much confusion on the matter..." You have NO idea

[@angryman1206]

I look to child rearing in the same way I view dog training. Reward when appropriate, punish when necessary, and never forget you are the alpha.

[@spectralassassin6030]

@@angryman1206 Yeah pretty much.

[@EmptyMan000]

@@angryman1206 Treating other human beings like animals has not always been proven to have great outcomes. Especially when you're trying to come off as the "alpha". That's begging for trouble, especially when there's more than one "alpha" in the room who disagrees with you.

[@Ragitsu]

@@angryman1206 "I look to child rearing in the same way I view dog training." What the f-k did I just read? You don't treat humans like beasts. Beasts are not equal to humans.

[@thenetherone1597]

Lol is an old earth name dating back to the late 21st century, it means "Yolo swag 420 360 no-scope smash mouth illuminati Doritos mountain dew" a very dignified title at the time.

[@TheBlarggle]

Her name was Lal though.

[@BeresMarcell]

early 21st century*

[@rowlandbuck2703]

You see, this is how religions get started...

[@onlybetashaveyoutubeaccoun898]

The NetherOne Brawndo’s got electrolytes

[@soulenoid6701]

Ik its a joke but Lal is Hindu for beloved

[@noptic]

"If I were to be damaged or destroyed, I would be lost forever." Just hearing this and realizing if they ever do intend to make a follow up star trek show for TNG...Data wouldn't be there and it makes me not want it to happen.

[@hopelessclown]

Sadly I don't think they will do that in the upcoming Picard series.

[@TiberianFiend]

We still have tard Data from the movie.

[@Sujad]

@@TiberianFiend The concept of Tard data is far less offensive than what they're doing to Picard and Data's memory than Picard.

[@Teletheus]

Sujad False. (But it’s hilarious to see all of these crazy alt-right fake Trek fans whining and bitching about it like little babies!)

[@Sujad]

@@Teletheus Bwahahahaahahahahaha! Alt-right Star Trek fans? Did you really type that out? Do you understand the concepts of words?

[@Gregorio416]

Picard is just upset because if Data succeeds there will be another kid running around. We all know how Picard feels about kids

[@randellgoering3425]

I chuckle Everytime I think about the family members of TNG characters and Data has had the most on the show. Grandfather, father, mother, 2 brothers and a daughter. Plus he boned Tasha. Lol

[@gabrielsierra865]

The memes from that....conjugation...still live today

[@Hannodb1961]

Picard loosing an argument is pointed out by playing soothing music.

[@kellyweingart3692]

Data: Yes, Sir

[@brainstewX]

Losing

[@paulthompson9668]

@@brainstewX Actually, it is "loosing", as Picard "set free" or "released" the argument.

[@puzzp]

Didn't realise all crew needed permission from the captain before engaging in the process of creating new life. He probably wanted to watch

[@RushavMohanty]

this episode always moved me deeply. you see, in India where I'm from, Lal is also a deep term of endearment used for children

[@mikeclifford8360]

I love at 1:21 how Data looks down at Picard holding his head in his hands.

[@mamat8184]

Brent Spiner is absolutely brilliant in this scene. I can see why Patrick Stewart says he is the most talented actor he knows.

[@TJDious]

When you look at people like Spiner, Nimoy, and Dorn, you see actors who had to play parts with no clear points of reference. And they all nailed it.

[@reichlinsmall9765]

"Tea, Earl Grey, hot, with Aldebran whiskey..."

[@DrownedInExile]

It is green.

[@samuelzuleger5134]

I prefer prune juice. A warrior's drink.

[@cytorakdemon]

One episode out did a ten episode series with a laughably higher budget. All the while keeping Picard and Data in character.

[@DrCuriensapprentice]

When Picard’s computer automatically backs up his word documents: “What you have done will have serious ramifications, I am completely dismayed that you told no one what you were doing”

[@random4969]

Once again Mr Data makes a good point and Captian Picard KNOWS IT and becomes speechles 😂

[@manfrombritain6816]

It's cool to see Picard genuinely pissed off with data, it's a rare thing

[@Aerojet01]

Picard was always frustratedly puzzled by Data, especially his logical and simplistic approach to life. Putting his unique abilities to one side, he didn't know if he was communicating with a child or someone morally advanced than him. Strangely enough, Data was the only person he could really relate too on board that ship.

[@otakurocklee]

Picard is the one that makes no sense in this scene. Why does he have to be informed about this or Starfleet? It's really none of their business unless Lal presents some kind of danger.

[@Aerojet01]

otakurocklee Because the entity or artificial life form was on board their ship. Most humans don't make much sense.

[@TheAlgorath]

This leads to the "rights of man" episode, where they establish the rights of artificial life. Basically, Picard's pissed because it's now in his lap.

[@SweetBearCub]

That was season 2, where Picard defends Data in a court hearing. ("Measure of a Man") This clip is from season 3. You have your episodes reversed. :-)

[@BrigadierBill]

Don't forget that Data's first reaction to Picard's frustration was to offer to deactivate Lal. It's sort of like a teenager having a child, given that Data might not be able to properly care for them and wasn't exactly a model parent (given that he had no idea as to how to naturally care for a child, and instead was researching parenting like it was an engineering concept. It helps to know what you're getting into before becoming a parent.

[@Krystalmyth]

I just love that we all acknowledge Data as a sentient life form, capable of his own decisions and possesing the right to live life as a free individual, except when we don't.

[@youknowwhoyouare2269]

"Except when we don't": 3yrs after your comment, when fundamental rights of American citizens are at threat levels we've never faced😫😞😣

[@Sly-Moose]

Wtf are you talking about? He IS his own person! You frick! 😡

[@Gabronthe]

@@youknowwhoyouare2269 If a bunch of belly swollen women came up to Picard and pointed at Ryker. Picard would be taking away Pyker's right to live as a free individual.

[@dewok2706]

i love how you can just smell the tumblr homestuck cringelord who made this comment through the screen 4 years later even

[@MazorKuziaki]

This makes me want to watch that episode again, but I always cry when I do.

[@a2ndopynyn]

One of the best episodes of the entire series. Hell, one of the best hours of television ever produced. It rips your guts out and makes you appreciate the experience.

[@tuffteddy1446]

Man this show had such fantastic writing.

[@TOFKAS01]

One of the most memorable episodes of Star trek. And as far as I know it was even inspired by an idea from a fan, not from a regular writer.

[@IsiahBradley]

Data always has a logical way to take Picard down by showing the captain's own limitations. This episode (which aired on BBC America today, which is why I'm here, typing during a commerical break) is one where he does the most of that.

[@CardboardSliver]

"...if I were to be damaged, or destroyed, I would be lost forever" Meanwhile in Nemesis...

[@gabrielsierra865]

And B4 does not know any better, even with the upload.

[@RockinRhinox]

I will always call this episode: "Data makes a daughter".

[@BeckettSong]

batlantern A better name, coming from the basic idea of your's, is "Progeny".

[@RockinRhinox]

right, but I was making a joke.

[@hannibustoogfyrre6074]

Geek Soup I call it _"did it for the Lals"_

[@kingchicago9307]

Geek Soup alright Data has a daughter or became a father

[@TheRealNormanBates]

or _"Father Knows Bits"_

[@Vladpryde]

Picard Double Facepalm!

[@muzz100]

Great to see this clip again but with the additional context of the new Picard series...

[@Hazzard65]

What I love about this is that clearly Data has once again surprised Picard.He could have easily said that he wanted to do this because it is something he see life forms doing and thought that if he did it it would make him one step closer to being human like... but he didn't. He expressed a desire to procreate in order to live on in some manner - something Picard could not rebuke.

[@Monitor1CC]

**Picard spoilers** A fantastic, emotional and classic scene about Data wanting to create a child partly because of the worry and personal realization he has that he’s the only one of his kind and if anything were to happen to Data his line would end with him as he states to Picard with conviction. It’s profound and beautiful in its simplicity. Fast forward to Picard’s ending and you have a forced, alternate version of Data asking Picard to “euthanize” and permanently delete his consciousness and who doesn’t even seem to care about meeting his new daughter. Yeah, Picard’s ending certainly was poorly written, terrible and depressing, wasn’t it?

[@Best.Of.Britian]

The movies started a trend of star trek and picard being nothing more than generic sci fi action, the picard series drove the tng characters into the ground and burnt anything that was left

[@DoremiFasolatido1979]

Yeah...and? This was one episode, out of hundreds. And honestly, at least half of them were "meh" at best in terms of both quality, and content. The vast majority of what remained were outright bad. Maybe...MAYBE 10% of the total episodes/movies, out of the entire franchise (movies have a slightly better track record than episodes), were actually explicitly GOOD. The Picard show really didn't have any worse a track record than the rest. Not in any noteworthy sense, anyway. To be fair, Star Wars by contrast (and really most other fiction at all), has a much worse track record with regard to quality of writing and content. But it is, at least technically, more fun most of the time. Andor is, by far, the best that Star Wars has ever been, and is easily among some of the best content that there's ever been, period (except for idiots). I still prefer Star Trek, however. The fact is, had I not seen TOS in reruns as a child in the early 80s, I might have wound up being the next Zodiac killer, or worse. If it weren't for Scotty catching my interest in science and technology on the show, I'd have never gotten into it. And if not for that, I'd have never ultimately gotten attached to Spock, who is the whole reason I found logic over the empty "faith" everyone was trying to drill into me as a kid. Which...turned out to be ironic since Vulcans are actually NEVER logical at any time in the entire franchise. Not even once. It's slightly funny, actually. But, the idea of logic was the only seed I needed to do the work myself, and Spock was still its source. Star Trek may have quite literally saved me, or at least opened the door to save myself. But I have no illusions about its supposed quality. It has amazing moments like this...but they're far, far more rare than anyone realizes. And most of the favorite moments of the majority of fans...are really garbage. Just like...well...every single saga or franchise or such out there at all, even among centuries-old "classics". The sheer magnitude of the cognitive bias of fans is absolutely cosmic.

[@skeetsvar162]

​@@DoremiFasolatido1979🤦‍♂️

[@GenericInternetter]

1:18 OH THAT'S WHERE IT'S FROM!!!!! Seen that meme everywhere.

[@BIGGIEDEVIL]

When data died in star trek Picard I cried like a baby it was like a part of my childhood was gone forever, grrat acting here from both legends

[@Xylarxcode]

To be fair, lots of parents aren't fit to create their own children either, but they still have the right to do so. They don't have to ask permission to anyone. The only person they have to respond to is themselves and their partner. Lots of children were born as 'accidents' made by unwise or unfit parents, but that doesn't make their lives worth any less then that of a carefully planned and wanted child. If Data really is to become an individual like any other human (or alien) being, he should be given that same right.

[@Mark-yn4vl]

You have some great points. For the sake of the argument for this episode, I think the reason Picard is so upset at first is because he feels Data is treating this more as an "experiment". Data says "Do wish you me to deactivate Lal" so casually. As if to say "Oh this is going to be too hard, I'll just terminate my daughter, she's only an experiment". That's why Picard says "It's a LIFE Data!" As if Data himself has forgotten that. While Data HAS followed all the logical rules, Picard makes a good point in questioning whether or not Data has considered LONG term consequences and responsibilities of raising a child. As we know, there's a difference in rules, theories, and logic versus real world. Especially when it comes to raising children. Data has no childhood of his own to reference either so it's sort of like the blind leading the blind. :)

[@Cubelarooso]

No, no they do not have that right. They should be asking permission from the child. To make such a profound decision for a complete stranger is an unforgivably selfish and vile act.

[@jamesking3654]

Xylarxcode my son was an "accident" meaning we diďnt plan him. However neither me or my partner are unwise or unfit. We are capable and responsible parents. We both love our child and encourage our child to be the best he is able. He is experiencing amazing places around the world. He's being shaped into an adjusted all rounded child who is sociable and is being taught good morals. .. Guess what? We ain't religious...

[@afriendlyyoutubecommenter1229]

In the end, it all comes down to the responsibility of parents. It is their choice and accidents can happen. I still would have no problem if parents are fit and prepared enough to raise a child responsibly. However, whether it was choice or accident, I believe it is not morally acceptable when irresponsible parents decide to have children without much thought about their capability for raising one and neglect their offspring once they are born. Yes, because their lives worth as much as those born under the careful planning of parents, they do not deserve the poor neglectful treatment from the irresponsible and unprepared parents. As Picard implies in the video, creating and taking care of a life is a huge responsibility. Again, while accidents are fine as far as you can raise your child responsibly, I wish more people would give much more careful and realistic thoughts before accepting such a precious, yet important responsibility of becoming new parents.

[@fieldy409]

Your children can't upload themselves to the internet and wage war on the entire human race. Data's children are new A.Is.

[@Shunthegoat]

Data: picard don't preach but I made up my mind I'm keeping my baby

[@marcusbullock630]

Data was like a father figure to me as a child because i dont know how to exhibit true emotion lol. I even absorb information and can randomly answer people's questions like him too 😂

[@EmptyMan000]

Well that's a lie, because you obviously display amusement as an emotion. You're socially crippled perhaps, but not emotionally incapable.

[@swiyth]

I think I can understand why Picard is so distressed at Data's attempt to mimic human reproduction. First of all, it came as a huge surprise; it wasn't even known Data had any urge to procreate, yet out of the blue, he was already on his way to having a child of his own. And secondly, what would the mechanism for reproduction be, for an android? There's so much ambiguity there; Data is a fully functioning, almost human-like android, but in contrast to humans, they have no idea what android reproduction is like, to speak nothing of expecting him to have that desire. The idea is, he could very well create sentient life and be forced to end it (which is a thought that appals good Picard). I suppose the element of uncertainty and the premise that sentient life is precious is what inspired such dismay in Picard. Being a parent is an awesome responsibility (awesome as in massive, extraordinary, immense, and not meaning super cool). Picard is worrying for Data who may not know any more than he does, in his innocence. But as the conversation continues, we see Picard consider very closely the words which Data tells him, and the preparations he's already done. The tone of the conversation shifts, from surprise, to outrage, to bewilderment, to perhaps even fear, and then a very quiet and tense deliberation on Picard's part. This is a pretty amazing scene. Very subtle shifts in the mood, and well acted out by these esteemed gentlemen.

[@brendalg4]

you nailed it

[@bed-bugg]

I remember one scene where Data and Troi are talking and Data casually mentions getting married and she's all surprised and mentions that she didn't even realize that was something he considered for himself. His response to her was something along the lines of, 'I haven't ruled it out even if it's unlikely". It kinda shows that he does consider things but doesn't mention them to anyone, perhaps because of his modesty and ethics program?

[@davecrupel2817]

Definitely alot to take away from this episode.

[@RoyRogerer]

@@davecrupel2817 this is to me a classic star trek episode. Just a very thorough exploration of what life and parenthood means. I was deeply touched by every aspect data's wisdom, especially about how it is the struggle to better ourselves that really matters, not actually reaching the goal. A true masterpiece of science fiction, by giving us a fresh perspective on such banal/common subject, giving a whole new perspective and insight. While in the original series, spock was a character to explore humanity through illogical emotions, data is a character to explore humanity through naive reasoning. This episode nearly brought me to tears on how touching this made me feel about is human beings.

[@Krystalmyth]

I just love hat we all acknowledge Data as a sentient life form being except when we don't.

[@Duke_Blitzein]

1:51 good acting Patrick Stewart.

[@jellydee123]

Emotionally frustrated thinking, Something that most of us do subconsciously but to do it on command as an actor and show it through expression is true talent.

[@joshuadesautels]

"And what Klingons do to their children--"

[@jonathancapehart4061]

There are no better face palms then when Picard is dealing with Data.

[@theloniousMac]

It always amazes me that whether it's DATA or the Doctor from Voyager that there is some reason they can't be backed up. Why must Data ever be lost. It seems to me he should do a weekly backup.

[@timewarriorsaga]

Data can't because if his body is destroyed, his body can't be replaced. He is unique and rare, even him building one proved disasterous.

[@peytonmac1131]

Data's memories could be, but they didn't know how to make another positronic brain, so they wouldn't be able to build any more androids like him. The Doctor was backed up, but it was always a bit vague when they could and couldn't use the backups for anything. Anyway, just having a copy of memories isn't the same as saving someone. When you die, you're still dead, even if someone has your memories.

[@Meijera]

@@peytonmac1131 Spock put his Katra in McCoy

[@peytonmac1131]

@@Meijera Yes, but he thought he was going to die. Then his old body came back, the memories were put back in, and he carried on as usual. That I'd consider resurrection. Taking memories and putting them in a new body would be no different from having a twin sibling. You die, but no one cares because they have your twin, who went through all the same experiences as you. So does that mean you're pretty much interchangeable?

[@desaturated-firefox]

It's strange that in the utopian, enlightened future of ST the beating of children is not completely unthinkable...

[@explosivemodesonicmauricet1597]

Actually more of a Flawed Utopia:Utopia that allows the so-called "dirt" roam around as long as it does not threaten its very existance.

[@lutherfla9328]

1:21 dat facepalm doe

[@woncho1]

One of the most emotional moving episode in the Star Trek universe.

[@NeoRazgriz]

P: “I’m talking about the responsibility of creating a new life.” D: “Isn’t that the very definition of parenting sir?” 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@rosson1983]

It’s in years to come when more people will look back at this show and realise just how sublime TNG actually was. No need for ‘splosions and lasers. Just incredible dialogue and acting, morality tales, character interaction, and life lessons.

[@Sage2000]

This episode is fantastic. I just wished more Riker and Diana participation and I think it’s weird that his daughter has chosen a kid’s form (forever...)

[@Sage2000]

@Lady Seashell Bikini nope. She choose the “form” of the your actress that played the character in the episode

[@Tylerpierre99]

I used to be irked or annoyed at the reaction from Picard at him expecting Data to consult and/or seek permission from him to have a daughter, as other crew members don't have to do so. But, as I've gotten older and appreciated the ongoing arcs of the series and life as a whole, I understand why he's so dismayed at the lack of consideration on the part of Data. Also (and this may offend some) but I would probably accept (on a starship away from home for years) a rule whereby it's at the very least considered courteous to consult the upper levels of management before starting a family, for logistical and social reasons, especially when away from their homes for what could potentially be years in this case. I understand Picards Dismay at this revelation. Considering only a year or so before, Data was nearly taken back to the Daystrom Institute for study and Picard physically argued in a court for the rights of sentience and androids in general, using Data as the precedent there. It strikes me as odd that Data doesn't at least seem to consider this in character about his Daughter Lal. The risk is that she will be studied and treated as a machine because Data has made her from material things, not through procreation as is typically known. Dr Soong it seemed was settled on a world whereby he could work on his creation rather than at the heart of Starfleet so I suppose he got as far as he dd because maybe he slipped under the radar, so to speak when he created B4, Lore, Data and Julia (the one's we know of). It also seems to me in universe, that I often get the feeling that Starfleet is almost concerned or worried about a race or in this case a SPECIES of Andoids that can self-replicate or procreate. What are they scared of and for that matter, why is there no previous concrete precedent for the denial or acceptance of A.I as starfleet's main goal is to seek out new life wherever that may be? We have philosophers and scientist kicking around the pros and cons of A.I today, and we don't (to my knowledge) have sentient robots or programs.

[@Tylerpierre99]

Ok I came back a year later and the series Picard is 3 episodes in. Now I know what Starfleet was scared of....

[@comparatorclock]

this comment is underrated

[@joejoelesh1197]

That we are watching this 30 years later, and that it still holds up, is a testament to these two actors and the writer.

[@sladegrey9272]

Picard Double-Facepalm = Best TNG moment ever!

[@herberttorojr7640]

Lol it's like Picard's scolding his youngest son for having a kid and not telling him.

[@omargoodman2999]

Picard: We aren't talking about parenting, we're talking about the creation of a new lifeform! Data: Hmm, yes, the floor here seems to be made out of floor.

[@zhain0]

The way data looks at picardy when he has his heads in his hands lol

[@scottmcmaster4927]

In this case Data was correct and Picard was acting rather out of character by not realizing that he was witnessing the birth of a new species. For someone whose mission it is too seek out new life and new civilizations, Picard was strangely blind to it happening right in front of his eyes.

[@ifound15min35]

Picard is treating the situation like he would if Riker had forgotten to pull out one night

[@TheStapleGunKid]

I love how Picard is almost acting like an angry father in this scene, when the subject they are talking about is parenting.

[@NightRunner417]

1:17 - More importantly, Data created one of the world's finest and most respected memes on that day.

[@JonathanV1031]

I remember crying pretty much at the end of this episode. :(

[@tenhirankei]

One of many gems in the Star Trek:TNG series.

[@George040270]

Given Picard's own childhood and is problems around children because of his own childhood, how can Picard even comment on the issue at hand?

[@ourladyofguadalupebotanica6732]

regardless of the accolades this series received, it was very much underrated.

[@wilhelmw5992]

"I understand the risks..." We all think that at first.

[@judgejoebrown9575]

Guess Alex "Shameless Hack" Kurtzman didn't watch this

[@McFlingleson]

I love Captain Picard, but I always thought he was completely out of line here. All Data was trying to do was be a dad. Granted, it doesn't work the same way for him as any of the other crew because he's a different type of being, but still his attempt to reproduce is his personal life and not something Picard has any business intruding into.

[@javierl8511]

I learned more about life from this show than anything i learned in a day of school

[@SamuelHolt1980]

Not often that Picard is left speechless and ashamed, it happens in this episode and is extremely well done.

[@Khail99]

and now Picard is trying to save Data's last child.

[@TheFinancialAdvocacyPodcast]

Could just be one of millions...

[@cytorakdemon]

That's not canon.

[@JeremyDuncan]

This clip REALLY aged well in light of Star Trek Picard.

[@Prometheus4096]

Star Trek Picard really aged badly in the light of this episode. Good god!

[@RopeDrink]

Just look at Jean Luc here. In this one scene, he is balancing between gobsmacked fascination vs fear for what will become of Data as a result, then balance between sheer frustration vs trying so hard, in a caring manner, to teach and protect Data. There's a Captain and a father figure fighting eachother with each sentence to get through to this one good-intentioned android, without really knowing what to think of it all himself. Tip of my bald-cap to Patrick Stewart for sprinkling this great character with utterly brilliant acting.

[@guyjohnson259]

Always such a wonderful dynamic between the two.

[@CharlesUrban]

And now Data is lost forever...or for a while, until his prototype catches up. Damn it, Nemesis.

[@hannibustoogfyrre6074]

Charles Urban B4 still wouldn't be Data though. because much of who Data was came from his own personal experiences. also, since Lal was saved in Data's own brain at the end of this episode, she's lost too. and I agree.... Damn it, Nemesis! they need to strike out that ending from the Canon! or make a movie/book/whatever where maybe they find Data's head floating around in the wreckage and build him a new body!

[@FlaviusBelisarius-ck6uv]

Hannibus 42 We do find out in the later novels that Datas consciousness did return to B-4, and B-4 built himself a more advanced body and transferred that consciousness there, bringing Data back to life. He later went on to become Captain.

[@LobotomyTC]

B-4 IS Data. All of Data's memories are nothing more than 1s and 0s, and that was placed into B-4. Continuity achieved. Data didn't lose more than a day of consciousness at most.

[@CaptainCocaine]

Never happened . Nemesis isn't canon.

[@Scyllax]

Where is Lore?

[@davecrupel2817]

To hear a machine acknowledge their kin's continuation by creating this........ wow......... just...... wow..........

[@andreamacleod1127]

Isn't it interesting that Picard was like "Why didn't you tell anyone?" and yet, I doubt anyone else on the Enterprise would have to ask for permission to have a child. It was established that Data is his own lifeform will all right that come with that. Shouldn't he be allowed to procreate without having to ask for permission?

[@kiko1935]

Data following Picard's head in his heads is such a nice touch

[@kev3d]

Picard on Monday; "Data is a unique life form, like any other member of my crew, who is not property and has a mind of his own." Picard on Tuesday; "Data, how dare *you* create a child? Sure, all the other crew members can reproduce as they wish, but not *you*, you product, you object."

[@Tuberuser187]

No, thats not it at all. He wasn't happy with Data treating it like a typical experiment, something to tinker with and turn on and off, reset and reboot. He was trying to tell him he was creating a life and needs to rethink his attitude.

[@kev3d]

How does anything that Data says or does indicate that he was treating Lal like a typical experiment? He followed all regulations, he read all treatises on parenting, and later in the same episode, he worked desperately to fix Lal's collapsing positronic net, and when this failed, he preserved her memories and experiences into his own neural framework. Sure, Data might not have emotions in the traditional sense, but neither do the Vulcans and presumably other species within the federation.

[@kellyrayburn4093]

Actually Vulcans *do* have emotions. Very strong ones. So strong they almost destroyed themselves, which is why they control them so rigidly. Their emotions must be controlled, else the emotions will control them and that way leads to disaster.

[@otakurocklee]

You're absolutely right. This episode makes no sense at all. Why do Data or Picard have to report to Starfleet about any of this? Terrible writing.

[@kellyrayburn4093]

otakurocklee Any time a child is born on a starship it must be reported to ensure the child's Federation citizenship. A Federation starship is legally considered Federation soil.

[@Bruno-G]

1:17 the origin of the meme Ps: Mr data It's more human than everyone aboard the ship

[@RotaryPoweredRX]

Piss

[@Joker25076]

Such a serious subject discussed in a sci-fi series... this is what makes TNG so special.

[@DragoMusivini]

When Picard does a double facepalm you know hte struggle is real.

[@clinicalpsychologist]

beautiful words, Data!

[@Artisan1979]

0:41 I get why he’s dismayed at this; has Data forgotten the crap that had almost happened to him caused by Bruce Maddox? How he almost lost his right to say no to being disassembled and replicated? The science that created him has never been duplicated before, and the fact that he may have improved on his own designs is too tempting for Starfleet to just ignore.

[@SheldonAdama17]

Picard: ...Use protection next time, Data.

[@peekeyeseek]

Weird, this popping up in my recommendations. You Tube Tube knows that I have been watching Picard.