Why I suck at relationships - As demonstrated by Lieutenant Commander Data

Is it bad that I connected with this scene in such a deep level that I had to screencap it and upload it?
Taken from Star Trek: The Next Generation - S04E25

[@JamZamDesigns]

Update: I saw this video going a bit semi-viral and sent it to my GF (yes, I actually got into a relationship. Would you believe it!) and she lol'd. Even us star trek nerds can be understood and loved! So don't give up my fellow trekians

[@icarussbungeecord7779]

JamZamDesigns good luck :D

[@justanotherhuumon]

Live long and prosper.

[@thegoombrat8198]

Boldly go where...not going to make that joke, too cheep.

[@zairman]

I gave up long ago. lol

[@Odima16]

It's so sweet and adorable to read this. c:

[@dorkmax7073]

Data is actually a good boyfriend. He's demonstrating a quality key to every healthy relationship: Communication. He is eager to learn and listens carefully, encouraging honest and meaningful dialogue with his significant other.

[@chevon1920]

And he cant lie

[@asterisk4540]

You projecting, dude?

[@chevon1920]

NOT YOU you know I find that people think they have certain characteristics when they don’t, 🤷🏿‍♀️

[@kayleighbrown459]

@NOT YOU We do. We all do. It's just that sometimes lesser desirable qualities overpower them.

[@123RADIOactive]

chevon1920 actually I think technically, he can if he’s ordered to do so but he’ll either not do it very well or just use some logic by saying something that technically isn’t a lie but isn’t really the truth someone is looking for.

[@MrSmallANDLoud]

Her: Dates a machine Her: Why are you behaving like a machine!?

[@dickmarx1298]

She's also the one that would engage his love making protocols, then ask if he felt anything, demanding that he had to have felt something.

[@sodalitia]

If she had read the manual to her sophisticated vibrator, she would know how to use it correctly.

[@BlargGargle]

"What are you thinking about?" *gets upset at the answer*

[@haczabim]

that weirdo wants to 'date' and android, change him, and whatever else....jesus. go mgtow

[@JackgarPrime]

Well think about it this way. People on the crew generally know that one of Data's goals is to learn more about humanity, and become more human by engaging in and observing human behavior. Romantic relationships are a MASSIVE part of the human experience, which also involves learning how to interact with a significant other, reading their emotions and intent, what they need, etc. So she's trying to help him learn, and Data certainly seems willing to take what he can lesson-wise. Even if some of the lessons aren't logical, but emotions often aren't.

[@northrupthebandgeek]

"The cat's out of the bag." "...Spot?" TIL Data kept his cat literally in a bag.

[@ananousous]

Lol

[@Kara_Kay_Eschel]

Unless if Data is taking the term 'Bag' as a crate or pin for Spot.

[@WarpRulez]

I think his reaction is a bit unrealistic given the setting. He has been studying human culture for literally years, both by studying literature and other forms of media (which he has pretty much limitless capacity to remember and consult), as well as years and years with social interaction with humans... and he has never heard of the saying "the cat's out of the bag"? I find that highly unlikely, given the setting of the series, and Data's role in it. He probably knows every single piece of literature and other forms of media that has ever created by humanity... yet he doesn't know this? The writer just wanted to make a quick silly joke, and by doing that, he made Data's reaction unrealistic and illogical. A more realistic reaction could have perhaps been Data knowing what the expression means and needlessly explaining it (or asking if that's what she meant). That would have been much more typical.

[@jamesbizs]

WarpRulez that annoyed me the most. It’s cute, and fun. Sure. But he’s a walking encyclopedia. The writers constant need to pretend he wouldn’t know a well known phrase or idiom, was absurd. He could look up the term in his head, in literally a blink of an eye. But no no. He NEVER knew ANY idioms. Ugh

[@joebhancock967]

I almost thought the made a joke.

[@DrLeroyGreen]

She doesn't love Data for Data. She's in love with what she thinks that she can make Data into. Oh, the Humanity!

[@OffGridInvestor]

Like most women. They go for bad boys because they want to change them but THEN IGNORE all the guys who aren't screwed up with kids all over town.... there was a woman with a bad memory getting married (because only those types marry). They told her that she had to walk up the isle, to the altar, and then face him (the groom). She needed to keep repeating this to herself to remember it. So she walked into the church holding her grooms hand walking to the front and everyone sitting in the church could hear her saying "I'll alter him. I'll alter him. I'll alter him.".

[@danieldickson8591]

To be fair, Jenna does eventually realize her self-destructive pattern in choosing romantic partners.

[@sodalitia]

Exactly. And humanity is narcissistic by nature and does everything it can to turn everything, living or machine, into themselves.

[@shiningarmour6805]

She fell in love to what she _thinks_ is Data. If you put emotions aside and assess logic, it is ridiculously obvious that he's an android. How many times have you had a girl date a guy that is obviously a sociopath? How many times has she said "no, he isn't! I know deep down he isn't!"

[@JackgarPrime]

To be fair, Data himself is trying to change into a more human and emotionally understanding entity. I think she's trying to help him in that with how she interacts with him. And for Data's side, he seems willing to learn from the experience, as well.

[@bookl0ver]

I'm a girl and I legit have no understanding why Jenna acts the way she does with Data. He's an android, he won't pick up on social cues. Tell him what you want, instead of offering hints that are more subtle than ninjas in the night, and you might actually be satisfied in a relationship.

[@z8ph0d]

#AllMenAreAndroids

[@jorgepeterbarton]

She's an 'empath'. compared to a human she's perhaps as different as data in the opposite way. Everything she does is based on 'reading emotions' and acts on emotional level rather than a cognitive one and i guess that works for betazoids who don't have to work anything out they just read other people. she's really great at those social cues because its what she does its her asset, and she can do it with everyone, except data...who is entirely cognitive... its true, she has just as many problems, and she can't read him, so she's more stumped than he is!

[@domydishes]

Heres something that might be surprising, same counts for relationships with people.

[@ribbitgoesthedoglastnamehe4681]

She doesnt want to be satisfied in a relationship, she wants to change him to get a relationship she wants, whether she actually wants it or not. Im like Data, Im really bad at reading social cues too, and its normal for me to continue doing what I do if I am told to do so or struggle with hints. Happily, I married a woman who is really bad at making social cues, so she doesnt play any games or expect me to understand a subtle hint. When she wants to be satisfied in a relationship, she starts by putting her hand in my pants. I find it very clear and delightfully honest behaviour.

[@Halpin2006]

I have actually talked with Brent Spiner at sci-fi cons. I am an Autistic with Aspberger's Syndrome, and told Brent how his character has always been a inspiration to me. Like Data, I cannot read social cues nor signs of affection. And many people don't understand my cognitive behavior either. Brent has heard this from many other fans as well. And surprisingly, neither he nor the TNG script writers intended for this connection to happen. It just did!

[@adamhrankowski1298]

I went to a Star Trek themed birthday party as Data. I gave the birthday boy a spatula as a gift. I told him that I chose it because I understood that "one gives a gift that the receiver would not have bought for himself." He didn't seem to appreciate the logic.

[@AkaiAzul]

Perhaps not, but you nailed playing as Data!

[@MrStrikecentral]

That's some great stuff right there.

[@Rockhound6165]

@@journalbee5808 I've bought myself spatulas.

[@hyperhektor7733]

yes but the is an important part you forgot: "gives a gift that the receiver WANT BUT would not have bought for himself"

[@juandiegofm]

@@journalbee5808 Here's the detail: birthday boy. If you buy a spatula for you as a boy...well...you must have more issues than Data.

[@CoolbreezeFromSteam]

"Perhaps if I look for a suitable place to display it" *Walks over to the other side of the room. Drops it directly into the trash. Walks back and resumes painting.*

[@drumking241]

😁

[@mythalda0040]

Damn

[@frankburns8871]

That made me literally (not "like literally") LOL.

[@qwertyuio404]

“I call it, _Bold and Brash.”_ “More like, _Belongs in the Trash!_ *HAHAHAHAHA!”*

[@matthewsukkau382]

"I don't collect art. I also don't collect, whatever that is." -- Full Throttle

[@CJusticeHappen21]

That thing is gonna shatter the next time the ship gets attacked.

[@cydaliaacevedo8635]

and it got destroyed in Generations

[@confusedwhale]

That depends on what it's made of. If it's from artificial diamond or sapphire, I think it could hold up pretty well.

[@maryswatek2503]

That's so perfect as a continuation of this clip, you have no idea lol

[@themonopolyguy4365]

I was wondering that the entire time. I missed the point of a video that demonstrates missing a point. Woah

[@AndrewChapman]

And Data probably won't be bothered if it does. Just like in Generations, when Picard just dumps the Kurlan naiskos when searching for his photo album in the rubble of his ready room.

[@Aramanth]

She wanted to "brighten up" his quarters with a clear glass object... I prefer that painting of Jupiter and the Mondrian art he has already.

[@builder396]

Actually, I find the piece of art surprisingly fitting for Data, or for that matter a Vulcan, given that its asthetics is based in intruiging geometry, something Data can appreciate more than, shall we say, an act painting, while still being reflective of his nature, clear, simple, but also unquestionably interesting to observe.

[@MyoclonicJerkCough]

Oil painting of cats playing poker

[@laurelharris8519]

builder396 You gotta love Trekkies. OMG, we're insane. LOL

[@guardianalways5239]

@@MyoclonicJerkCough Don't you mean Riker and cats cheating at poker? 😁

[@TommygunNG]

Plus, she probably just replicated it. Data's actually putting effort into his art.

[@alvideos2145]

"Trying to brighten things up with a random shape of plastic. I was only painting a masterpiece here."

[@feyefall4855]

I'm sorry, but I must inform you that painting and other forms of art that are considered traditional or "true" art are not actually the extent of field. The elements of design and the contradictions of those elements can be formed or made through a wide variety of means. This includes abstract sculpture, audio, and even advertisement.

[@Fermion.]

@@feyefall4855 You must be an art major looking for opportunities to flex that useless degree, because your reply had nothing to do with the OP.

[@Splatterpunk_OldNewYork]

A piece of plastic she had replicated from an industrial unit on deck ten, Took about 10 seconds and some menu browsing. Data busy making a riff on an early 1920's French post impressionist painting which he has to labour on. Yeah, real nice.

[@feyefall4855]

@@Fermion. You're right, my comment was unnecessary and arrogant. I'm sorry, and I'll remove it if you want me to.

[@dickmarx1298]

@Dick Fageroni Yes. This. Thank you good sir

[@Askeletontrappedinamanbody]

"Stop whatever you're doing." The man is painting, you don't just stop and let everything dry out because an arrogant woman brings you an acryllic cheese grater.

[@talacocheta9001]

She didn't respect that he was doing something that he liked prior to their date, and interrupted him, then got annoyed when he wanted to get back to it. She was ridiculous! (I'm female and cringed through the entire thing - when it first aired and now here, too.)

[@guyingrey1072]

"acryllic cheese grater" This actually made me laugh. Bravo.

[@fegelfan15]

Best comment

[@iycephoenixx4249]

Haha

[@guardianalways5239]

@@iycephoenixx4249 She had an annoying personality and why Data didn't tell her there is no book of love chapter blah blah blah I don't know. She doesn't want Data. She wants a trophy boyfriend. Too bad Troi didn't tell her that. Cheese grater without cheese. How perfect.😁

[@quintusaquila34]

Been rewatching TNG recently and man I've gained a whole new appreciation for Brett Spiner. Sure Sir Patrick Stewart is great and all, but the nuances and subtleties that Spiner manages to convey as an Android who attempts to understand and become more human is something to behold.

[@stevensheldon9271]

I feel like of all the actors in TNG, Spiner was given the greatest scope of characters to play.

[@TheEmeraldMenOfficial]

Brent Spiner, not Brett. Still. Data’s the best... and they had the biggest goofball playing the emotionless android.

[@Elly3981]

@@TheEmeraldMenOfficial Well, whenever you see Data laughing, smiling, acting silly, and messing around, that's just Brent being himself, lol.

[@Elly3981]

Brent Spiner is clearly one of the best actors I've ever seen but his talent alone wasn't enough to make Data such a popular character. His personal charm and good looks also had a lot to do with it as well.

[@synthlust5687]

The thing I hated about this episode is the fact that she kept trying to change him instead of appreciating him as he is. Data is amazing and doesn't need to change for anyone unless he wants to. I wish I could find a man like him.

[@palephoenix4194]

There is always an area of compromise when it come to relationships; however, insisting that one change their fundamental nature just to make things easier isn’t love. I’ve learned to love people as they are or to leave them be. Life’s more interesting when people are genuine.

[@Obese_Pterodactyl]

@@palephoenix4194 Yup it doesn't work. Sooner or later the real you will resurface and the toxic relationship will end.

[@kayleighbrown459]

He actively wants to change tho. That's his whole deal.

[@ssjwes]

@@palephoenix4194 The only compromise worth a damn is in actions, not WHO a person is. Choices decided between both, that has NOTHING to do with the individual, is the only place compromise should be dealt. You can give voice to your own ideas about one another but NO ONE should feel the need to change unless THEY feel like it's worth it. THAT is how you never have this recurrence of toxicity that Stupid Velociraptor pointed out. Forced or outside induced change is FAKE. I agree with you "I’ve learned to love people as they are or to leave them be."

[@cristianm7097]

Are you gay ?

[@profblack]

The cat’s out of the bag Data: s p o t

[@jacewallace5552]

Woman gets with a man she finds interesting. Immediate starts to change the very thing that made her interested in him in the first place.

[@ananousous]

Woman breaks up with boyfriend for being too emotionless. Immediately dates someone who literally has no emotions.

[@OffGridInvestor]

BINGO

[@manfrommaine]

YES!

[@slappy8941]

Then when he changes for her, she dumps him for not being the same person anymore. However, this doesn't change the fact that she was still banging her ex.

[@janetsminten8196]

That's women for ya

[@cherubin7th]

Data is like the easiest boyfriend. This shows that humans just seek an excuse to create drama.

[@doomhead2332]

That's been obvious...

[@citytrees1752]

I would love a no drama boyfriend like Data.

[@jorgepeterbarton]

The problem lies in the rest of the crew. How many times are they surprised at his autistic interactions when they know full well HE IS A GODDAM ROBOT WHAT DO EXPECT

[@darkcoeficient]

The future of Star Trek is not the pinnacle of humanity

[@pwnmeisterage]

Data was only what the future looked like in the 80s and 90s, lol

[@legacypatriot6326]

He is an android not a robot.

[@mikeymcmikeface5599]

An android is a robot that looks like a human.

[@dbzfanexwarbrady]

@@mikeymcmikeface5599 unless its a Dragon ball android with is more like a cyborg

[@Plexuz0]

She didn't actually like him for him, and that's the toxic ass standard of an astounding degree of interactions characters have had with Data over the years.

[@Synathidy]

Damn right.

[@jonaskoelker]

[TL;DR: I agree 90%, but...] > She didn't actually like him for him What I read out of the clip is that she wants to be with the man he wants to become. They have the same idea about who he should be, and they're working together on making him become that man (or mandroid, as it were). One shouldn't hook up with a partner, expecting them to change; but if she expects him to sustain the process of change he was already engaging in, is that really expecting a change? Wouldn't expecting him to suddenly stop becoming more human be an even greater expectation of change?

[@Plexuz0]

@@jonaskoelker That's a weirdly wise and considered response to a two-year-old KZbin comment about Data from Star Trek, Jonas.

[@yvettemarshallTWN]

@@jonaskoelker Drop the expectation, it is a killer! Let the togetherness take hold and blossom. See how you respond to the other person’s responses. In other words don’t be so uptight!

[@m-w-y7325]

@@yvettemarshallTWN too bad most women and men have too much attachment to their expectations that they end up disappointed and ruin their relationship eventually. and most of them then decide to not have any and just have one night stands so nothing gets serious.

[@0mnicide]

Picard said it best when Data went to him for relationship advice.. “I will be delighted to offer any advice on understanding women. When I have some, I’ll let you know.”

[@spencers5898]

"The important thing is that you're trying" is honestly this whole episode in a nutshell.

[@cerebral3591]

Data quickly does a cost-benefit analysis and dumps her.

[@dickmarx1298]

Amen.

[@leons.kennedy6710]

He does it in 0.63 microseconds. An eternity for an android.

[@honeycombkisses7559]

As he should 😌

[@bluceree7312]

That would have been a better episode than "In Theory".

[@caroleanderson4020]

No, she dumped him of course.

[@honeycombkisses7559]

I actually don't understand her reactions lmao, he had a really nice and thoughtful reaction to her gift? He carefully looked at and analysed the artistic form, the simplicity and beauty he saw in it, as well as recognising the different sources that inspired it. He genuinely wasn't dismissive or critical, he showed enthusiasm and interest, even considering how the light shines and accentuates it when placing. It just wasn't expressed in the way she was expecting, and when she gave him a nudge he adjusted to accommodate and communicate in a way she felt more comfortable with. Idk man, maybe my autistic ass is projecting but I probably would have acted similarly, and she was kinda patronising smh 😔 idk what she was expecting

[@facelessdrone]

The reason it didn't work out is because she had an image in her head she wanted fulfilled and came in with expectations that data was unable to fulfill, she wanted him to be "the one" you know, the kind of person that follows the pre-made script within your head instead of being an independent person, he did everything right, thats why she was upset, because it wasn't the right way *in her mind* but was still correct so she had no logical basis to complain about it.

[@2malachi]

Yup.

[@youknowwhoyouare2269]

Clearly Data was programmed with extensive knowledge of Psychology to recognize that she was manipulating him based off her pre-conceived notions of relationships

[@youknowwhoyouare2269]

@@facelessdrone I don't find it logical that Data let her gaslight manipulate him. Let the "Man" paint in peace

[@nammashraqi4029]

I also have autism, but I've learned all the little social cues, I drop the mask when I get tired Data doesn't get tired, if he had a mask he knew he could wear, he would wear it all the time. Data doesn't have a mask because he doesn't need one, which tells me that one some level, he knows that the people that love him, love him for him. So yes, while her reaction wasn't totally understandable, I think Data knows that she can't help it. She's not consciously trying to pick apart everything he does. If she did, that would contradict the fact that he knows that the people that love him, love him for him.

[@turtletrekkie5638]

I can relate to Data a lot in this episode, I’m autistic and I don’t pick up on social clues from time to time. I don’t always understand what people want. It can be really confusing sometimes.

[@Icebergeification]

To be fair data did nothing wrong here, she dropped by unannounced in his personal quarters eith a gift he never asked for just because she did my like his personal space, and he still accepted and appreciated the gift in fact if I remember correctly the whole point of this scene was to show that she was not in a healthy relationship with data

[@Elly3981]

​@Icebergeification Maybe this woman was more infatuated by Data's physical attractiveness than Data himself.

[@laurenjcoates]

They’ve worked with him for years. Kinda baffles me that they still don’t understand how Data acts and reacts

[@jilligain3409]

I absolutely LOVE Data. He's the kind of man I've always dreamed of being w/, because I'm a huge awkward nerd myself

[@jilligain3409]

Slappy it's just a joke

[@broken12smiles]

@@jilligain3409 that's such a shame I was pleased to hear there were women who wanted that.

[@jilligain3409]

broken12smiles I got frustrated w/ that last comment from that other person. It seems like no matter what I say on KZbin, someone has to come in w/ some negative comment or a put down or name calling, etc. ..you know. Anywho...yes indeed, I love Data & would choose him over the other usuals any day

[@guardianalways5239]

@@slappy8941 Data from Farpoint on was more like an inquisitive child that happened to be a savant. The Borg were more like my idea of robotic and yet look at Hugh and 7 of nine.

[@jackykuran4281]

broken12smiles yes, meee :3

[@ichigo_nyanko]

I think data would make a good boyfriend. No hidden intentions, doesn't try to wield the English language like a sword or dance around taboo. And you know he won't lie. He doesn't need validation and isn't afraid to say what he thinks. Can hold a conversation on pretty much anything, he is eager to learn and able to teach. He does not get frustrated, or angry. He can look at things and see them for what they are. And most importantly his intentions are more pure than any human you could meet. Sounds like a dream to me, she didn't deserve him.

[@royfokerpoker1802]

Lol right. Go get a robot bf then in about 10-15 years. Who needs a human mate anyway 🤦

[@OutyMan]

Data getting a girlfriend is one of my favorite episodes. Oh, I almost forgot that him and Lieutenant Yar were a thing for a second when there was the drunk and horny disease on the ship: "I am programmed in multiple techniques; A broad variety of pleasuring."

[@kaylus9859]

If Tasha was still alive, I think they would have made a great couple

[@Elly3981]

@@kaylus9859 But Tasha wasn't in love with Data. She actually took advantage of him while they were both space drunk.

[@ObsidianGloria]

"I should not have continued my painting, despite you urging me to continue" What? That's not a good standard for how to act in a relationship. If you say something you should mean it. Data did nothing wrong Edit: And then she even makes a face when he puts thought into putting it where he thinks it would look best. What even is this.

[@cybernaab]

True XD

[@rodjacksonx]

This... is the illogical labyrinth most men voluntarily choose to enter in order to find love/family/intimacy/etc.

[@tailuigi]

Indeed. I have found it far more effective to honestly and forwardly state one's intentions and wishes; although it can by times present as harsh, I find it reduces conflict and misunderstandings in the long term, and helps to establish a pattern of clear communication. I have never understood the inclination to speak disingenuously with the expectation that one's partner will recognise one's true intent.

[@StarlitSwamp]

@Gloria "If you say something you should mean it." THIS. As an autistic woman, it's a wonder I still have any hair left on my head from wanting to tear it out every time I internally scream this very thought at friends who tell me everything's fine when they're actually expecting me to figure out it isn't, or who read hidden meanings and intentions in my words when there are none. I can relate to Data so much it hurts.

[@spartan456]

@@StarlitSwamp For the most part I agree with the assessment that clear communication is important. However there are absolutely certain instances where someone might _want_ to talk about something, but they don't have the courage, bravery, confidence, or whatever to bring it up. For example, how many times has someone asked if you're okay, and there is something on your mind but you perhaps don't feel like burdening them with it, so you simply say "yeah I'm alright." It's these specific little situations where reading between the lines is important. On the one hand you could just say what is on your mind and not be held back by any particular feelings or emotions or irrational anxieties. On the other hand, we are all human and none of us are perfect. So it's in times like these that it's important to have someone in your life who is willing to work on understanding you. However, in many examples this kind of thing is taken _very_ literally when it is a lot more nuanced than that. For example, in the examples provided in this video, she says one thing but actually expects another thing entirely. This is a classic case of taking it too literally. A far more nuanced (and realistic) example of what I'm talking about is saying "I'm okay" when you are very much not okay, and this is something I feel most people are familiar with. You _want_ whoever you're talking with to make an attempt to pry and coax you into communicating your problems. However, if it doesn't happen, you (and most people) likely understand it's because you weren't clear in your communication and you will certainly not hold that against your friend/SO or whoever you're talking with at that moment. The problem is not "saying one thing and expecting the opposite in return", the problem is the people who end up destroying perfectly fine friendships and even potentially good relationships because they aren't willing to accept the reality that their friends or significant others can't read their mind.

[@z8ph0d]

2:12 I was waiting for Data to put it in a closet

[@OpenMawProductions]

Stick it in the replicator "Computer, dispose of this please." *clibeebeebeep whirrrrrrrzzzpmm*

[@SuperAwesomeVidya]

@@OpenMawProductions I've been laughing about this for 5 minutes now

[@jordanmisiura384]

@@SuperAwesomeVidya same, lol

[@yvettemarshallTWN]

Obvious it was a centerpiece. Why not make her happy in the moment and just move it later?

[@collapsingnewpunkie]

All the aspies out here relating deeply to our icon, data

[@StYxXx]

You don't have to have asperger to be confused by women logic :D

[@collapsingnewpunkie]

@@StYxXx Very true, however it's a pretty common aspergers experience lmao! thats all I was going for (:

[@wellesradio]

Too bad there aren't any people on the aut spectrum left alive by the 24th century. Humans seems to have removed them from the gene pool. Data is the wrong person to look to if you have Asperger's. Really your hero should be Deanna. She's the only one who understands what aspies are going through as she's treated the same way by other Betazoids.

[@OfMiceAndMegabytes]

LoOoOol am I aspie then?? Always admired his efficiency and emulate it in everyday life

[@skyeplaysgames6734]

Yeah but no. I kinda forced myself to ignore my diagnosis and bury it and try and be 'normal'

[@picklesthewise]

This is funny, and I get how her reactions are the "normal" response from most people. But honestly I love that Data appreciated her gift in his own way and wanted to utilize it in the best way possible. He was also willing to try and understand her when her communication wasn't clear in the first place. He may be made of various metals, but he is also comprised of 100% boyfriend material.

[@Elly3981]

Imagine having a boyfriend who will always look young and handsome while you get older.

[@beaut-ful-d-saster]

Poor Data. He's so knowledgeable and yet so clueless. His willingness to communicate and learn from others is wonderful, though.

[@JamesCarmichael]

I think she's just as awkward as he is to be honest.

[@rh5466]

I think that's kind of the point, James.

[@rh5466]

I've always found Worf to be a little bit aggressive.

[@alansmithee419]

Why I suck at relationships: As of yet I've never had the desire to be in one.

[@maunster3414]

I wouldn't want to know someone who thinks she can decorate my space with any kind of presumption.

[@NyanHomeschoolGirl17]

Slappy Goddamn, who hurt you?!

[@erinhollow773]

That's totally ok!

[@Slowpoke3x]

Once the hormones calmed down I realized it was more trouble then It was worth and I would have too give up too much of what I like to even make it work.

[@StarlitSwamp]

@alan smithee There's a lot of societal pressure for everyone to be in a relationship as soon and for as long as possible (and the way romance is always put on such a high pedestal in the media doesn't help), but I think in the end, only you know what's good for yourself and your happiness is more important than other people's opinions. Since I realized that I was never going to get that longing for a conventional relationship (as it turned out I'm aro ace), I've decided to only invest my time and energy into things that are actually meaningful to me. As for company, I'm finding that I really don't need anything "more" in my life than my friends and family members, because it's not the nature of one's relationships as much as their quality that matter.

[@tbn22]

1:09 Well that's what you get for playing games with a man who isn't afraid to be alone.

[@MastaSmack]

Well said, just say what you want in plain English...since we both speak it, and don't have some hidden test behind shit.

[@youknowwhoyouare2269]

DGTOW Data's going their own way

[@youknowwhoyouare2269]

@@MastaSmack FBDP

[@tuberaider]

Data: _What's wrong?_ Girl: _Nothing. Everything's FINE_

[@aminacodes]

the way he blew a kiss for her 😂😂😂😂😂😂 i love him yall

[@whiteknightcat]

What she should really be concerned with ... "I'm just scared I'll come home one day and find you screwing the toaster." - Gloria, Heavy Metal

[@geeboon669]

Good nyborg man!

[@JayBee-se8ou]

"You'll just have to trust me"

[@ElementofKindness]

[Jenna] _"It's Tirinian. What do you think?"_ [Data] _"I think you got ripped off. It's just a chunk of acrylic from the props warehouse."_

[@blitz7326]

Data is so awkward, ya gotta love him:-)

[@Eusong]

As a woman, I really didn't like this chick in the episode. She didn't want Data for who he was, and kept trying to change him in what I saw as a really mean manner. Yes he wants to learn, and yes it's good to help a partner through their (actual) flaws they want/need to fix, but she seemed so manipulative about it, and it definitely wasn't loving. I really like Data as a character, and I think he'd make an amazing friend. Heck, there was even a time I had a small crush on him- but now that I have a husband I've realized that I need someone very different from Data as my lifelong partner, haha. Even so, trying to turn him into someone so different from his nature would not only be a sign of flaws in the person doing it, but if successful would ruin the amazing person he already is.

[@Elly3981]

Data eventually becomes human in every way except his physical body. Jenna's problem was that she was attracted only to his good looks but patient enough to get to know and understand him.

[@ZetaPrime77]

“The cats out of the bag-“ “Spot?” Data is best boi sometimes

[@cron1807]

Data could feel emotion before the chip, but he was just unable to process it fully and properly

[@Mindraker1]

Accentuate those contours, Data.

[@tiad.9536]

Data is actually a good boyfriend. Most guys would freak out if some girl started bringing stuff to 'decorate' their apartment. Instead he's chill about it, interested in communicating with her, and is interested in learning. Seems to me she's just being passive aggressive because he's not acting 'human' enough for her. As an artist I respect that you gotta work while your paints are wet. Rock on with your art you groovy little android.

[@youknowwhoyouare2269]

I swore up and down he was about to call her out on that, and you can tell she thought he was about to as well🥺

[@Elly3981]

​@youknowwhoyouare2269 I think this lady was more infatuated with Data for his physical attractiveness than who he actually is.

[@commodorn]

I've experienced many situations like this. Once I was in class doing work at the computers and I had a classmate next to me that I was talking to. After a little bit she told me that she was going to go to another spot of the classroom, so I replied with "Alright", as I usually do. For some reason she seemed offended by how nonchalant I was and asked me why I wasn't asking her to stay; I told her that she could do as she pleased, whether that be leaving or staying. Eventually I ended up asking if people often control her in my own attempt to understand the reason for her suggested request. I don't think she really liked my response... although I'm honest like that with everyone, I also wasn't really looking to impress someone I only knew for a few days or so, anyway.

[@user-lk7cv8vg7r]

TBH, it sounds like she was attracted to you and was trying to gauge your interest. A lot of people like her aren't self-actualized enough and are still too socially awkward about telling others what they want, so instead of straight up asking you out, she interpreted your response as a " Not interested."

[@Gabronthe]

Did you like her? Was she like a close friend or someone you crushed and flirt with? Or was this just some random person going "I'm sitting away now?"

[@jenna_baker]

bro he goes through all the trouble of making a subprogram to be good for her, gaining all the info he would need to pursue her (to the best of his abilities) and she expected even more of him. i would've been sooo good to him - if i were in this universe anyways lmao

[@frank5813]

It always kinda bothered me that people didn’t seem to accept Data for who he was and always tried to “humanize” him. Granted he was very interested in human behavior, but he also seemed quite comfortable with himself as an Android.

[@youknowwhoyouare2269]

Tokens usually experience the blessing and curse 🎭

[@Elly3981]

Data has always wanted to be human but he still has to be himself.

[@sheriffdaken5604]

A fun little background detail is that later in the series you can still see this gift, except it's in the spot that Data originally placed it in. And yes, the ambient light does infact accentuate it's contours.

[@justnd0257]

Poor Data. He's such an interesting, unique person and his gf tries to change everything. 🙄

[@freesaxon6835]

Poor old data's logic circuits trying to figure out a woman 😁

[@kazumasatou6256]

Error 404, logic not found, or in lamans terms, bitches be crazy.

[@RossMalagarie]

6 billion calculation per second? Still not enough;)

[@R3dCol0r]

she is the dumb one to be honest, expecting so much from an android. And actually being disappointed with him for not understanding.

[@mitchhaelann9215]

To be fair, normal organic men have struggled with the same thing for about as long as there have been men.

[@tomislavbuza7951]

eror eror eror......

[@collapsingnewpunkie]

"I still have much to learn." Yeah me too buddy

[@Leon_der_Luftige]

We all do, man.

[@darthglobe4285]

When people tell me that I must be having Asperger's syndrome, or I am too much into physics and I overanalyse situations and I don't know how to talk, I just think of Data... Well there's still a place in the world for me! (probably).

[@darkcoeficient]

Darth Globe best to just relax on social situations. People with ill intent can be dealt with and most people are well-meaning.

[@2490debrick]

Yes the Asylum lol...

[@ribbitgoesthedoglastnamehe4681]

Just hang around with Aspies or nerds. Problem solved.

[@sarahberkner]

That's true of me too- except for being into physics. Maybe those people that are criticizing your personality are the ones who need to learn to be more polite. Edit: Not that I dislike physics (and I am interested in astronomy and geology) but I'm not a scientist like a bunch of people in my family are :)

[@alansmithee419]

"Too much into physics" If you ask me the whole of humanity is too far *from* physics.

[@DivShadow]

The first time a woman ever had to try and train her battery operated boyfriend...

[@McRocket]

DivShadow - well, maybe not the first. Since this scene (theoretically) takes place in the distant future. I would not mind trying a battery-operated girlfriend...provided she had more emotions than Data. And more realistic looking skin.

[@g00gleminus96]

It was never explicitly stated on-screen (or off for that matter) what Data's power source is. All we know is that he once said that he "continually recharges" which would seem to indicate that he runs on some sort of power storage system and he draws energy from some kind of ambient energy field. I would speculate that he is powered by ambient heat and light, or possibly from subspace or some other exotic source.

[@yoshikitakaya7871]

Gold comment for you 😂😃😂😃

[@mitchhaelann9215]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pZWrmqmqbJykoc0

[@tomdumb6937]

Watch sttos "what little girls are made of" or I mudd or requiem for a methuselah...

[@SchneeflockeMonsoon]

Ah Data’s one time girlfriend… I find it hilarious what she expected from him versus what she gave. She provided token affection and pretty much nothing else, expected him to be a first-date boyfriend levels of polite and attentive, honeymoon-lover levels of intimacy, and good husband-levels of picking up on her subtle clues all at once, and was confused when he was Data. Data, who can become all those things, but you have to give it time, and you have to actually explain what you want. Because she wasn’t interested in Data as a partner. She wanted a rebound boyfriend who would make her feel special. Data is a companion, who will make you feel happy to be alive.

[@marinarhettsturgill6085]

I'd rather have a companion than a boyfriend any day of the week! And unlike Jenna, I would accept him for what he is and not try to change him in any way! ( that can lead to trouble in any situation!!)

[@Proximax9]

I find the ending of their "relationship" one of the saddest things I have seen on star trek. Data simply erases his program, sits in the room and doesn't give a damn.

[@youknowwhoyouare2269]

Eternal sunshine of the spotless mind- err programming

[@benjaminA.stantonpun]

If you end a relationship with Jenna, Data has demonstrated exactly how any man should take it. 😀

[@Yoarashi]

Yes, he doesn't give a damn. But that's good! Even Data gets that the kind of relationship they had - the brief and toxic kind where one person is very controlling and expects the other person to entirely change who they are as a person - isn't worth mourning.

[@cyanman1073]

"The cat's out of the bag." "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO SPOT?"

[@_ThEoZiAn_]

Thank you for posting this. I relate to Data so much lol. Especially when he says what he is thinking about

[@jayyu8229]

Wait, your supposed to utilize the gift immediately after it is given? I always felt that that was awkward as it is directing attention from the guest, who far more important then any object. Also usually, since the gift is given near the beginning of the visit, wouldn’t it be more important to be making the guest comfortable then to be focused on the gift? I feel it would be better to examine the gift during downtime after everyone is settled in, or afterwards, so you can dedicate more time to the person Edit: the only exception is birthday parties, then it is less awkward

[@laurenjcoates]

“Spot?” Lmao

[@lisasimmons5362]

I say kindly that this is a great example of why I've never bothered with such relationships. People should say what they mean. Not play games. And why should Data have to adapt to Jenna, yet Jenna does not reciprocate?

[@julioverne579]

Can we please give it up for the cameramen and producers and directors who cought the light in this room reflecting in that art piece perfectly? It looks awesome in the corner and stunning on the table

[@noahhastings6145]

"Perhaps if I looked for a suitable place to display it?" "Much better" *Data displays it in the trash*

[@tuhrilla9511]

"Perhaps if I look for a suitable place to display it..." *Throws it in the trash*

[@jonaskoelker]

He's fully functional and anatomically correct ;-)

[@temporaldistortion1186]

Just ask Tasha Yar....

[@kaylus9859]

@@temporaldistortion1186 well she couldn't be here today

[@jhhwild]

The problem is that most women won't give you the same feedback as this lady gave to Data, they'll just be mad at you and never tell you why.

[@RoScFan]

@EseChava 22 how?

[@RoScFan]

@EseChava 22 an awkward vibe does not explain the reason behind it.

[@EmptyMan000]

@EseChava 22 You say all that and you're telling HIM to stop acting like an expert? Can you see the hypocrisy here?

[@ananousous]

@@EmptyMan000 Perhaps EseChava is a woman?

[@neanderthal1989]

"Social instincts?" 🤨 no such thing, "social" anything is something one is taught via culture. There are different social norms in every culture. There are cultures that still exist where one kidnaps thier bride when they are old enough and the woman is held until she basically succumbs to Stockholm syndrome. You're "social instincts" dont work here or anywhere because one is taught what is socially correct, there is no basis of instinct. Maybe if one is taught young and has a full understanding there social norms it would feel like instinct, but it's still just what one has learned from their peers and culture as the social norm. There can be no instinctual response if society is a construct aka man made.

[@TheExpeditionUK]

The painting on Data's wall is like the L'ORÉAL Studio Line logo, my favourite hair gel in the 90s

[@ArsenicAlchemist]

"Brighten things up around here" with this absolutely clear sculpture.

[@LCBanga]

Women aren’t so complicated they are as simple as puzzle...a 100,000 piece puzzle...of the ocean

[@Ch35h1r3C47]

A deep part of the ocean, on a calm day, with no waves and no bright sunlight, looking directly down.

[@MastaSmack]

I just stay away now, I think I leave the house for about an hour at most.

[@ananousous]

But someone threw in a bunch of random pieces from other puzzles of the ocean

[@sarahberkner]

I'm not a puzzle of the ocean, I'm a puzzle of the sea. How dare you? JK

[@MastaSmack]

I still hold to that, a young girl working the register at McDonalds wanted to start an argument over me asking for their new donuts "We don't have donuts, we have donut STICKS"...it blew a fuse in my mind. I'm able to hang out all alone without a single argument breaking out...it's soooo peaceful. If I'm truly lucky, all of humanity will be wiped out by a virus that only I am immune to...a wonderful world...were I can hang out at the beach under a tree naked with no one to bother me.

[@Ooilei]

I feel like Data maybe should have tried dating a vulcan. I could definitely see that working out. He is emotionless, and vulcans try to be emotionless. It should work out perfectly

[@philip1279]

If I was on that crew I'd have to assume she was interested in data because he was fully functional and programmed in a variety of techniques.

[@juanchocorleone]

Damn. Even Data has a girlfriend. 😔

[@confusedwhale]

The important thing is that you are trying.

[@ananousous]

I wish that's what women would say to me... 😭

[@mrmasonry9792]

Oh Data, all you need to know is when ever in doubt...show her you are "Fully Functional"

[@ss-oq9pc]

I remember being a kid and seeing a few of these shows, and not really caring for data much one way or another. But after watching a lot of clips recently he's grown on me a lot.

[@robinvik1]

"Spot, get back in your bag!"

[@thorcadail5812]

Even though I get second hand embarrassment from watching this episode, I would still 100% date Data if possible. He's just so precious. Though I would never go about it the way she did. He just doesn't know anything about love but he tried his best yet she still tried to do things her way while not understanding him. The relationship was dropped on him and you can't force a relationship on someone even though he was willing. He's still new to it all and you'd have to go about it in a understanding and healthy way.

[@thedopplereffect00]

I can't believe they made an episode like this.

[@leslietaylor4458]

On a calculator, take 10 divide 3, then multiply that by 3 again.. That's Datas mind when told "go back to your painting"

[@Horkslair]

"Earth women who experience sexual ecstasy with mechanical assistance always tend to feel guilty!"

[@abooga8]

Where is this quote from?

[@MLBlue30]

You don't know the women I know.

[@stutteringcris468]

dude i want to see a female Data interact with data

[@Shadow-zf5uc]

If only Data met 7 of 9

[@12201185234]

Well, there was that one episode where he built his own "daughter"

[@Henrix1998]

@flownet07 No, Data will not be assimilated, it was said directly that he would have no place in Borg society

[@specialdelivery9196]

@@Henrix1998 Exactly right, pretty much the reasoning behind that was explained when Lore was recruiting Borg with that transmitter of his; Data would also instinctively disrupt the Borg consciousness to carry out his orders. Also I feel that Data, and 7 of 9 wouldn't have been a good match honestly. 7 of 9 strives for perfection; and Data is completely opposite because he strives to be less and less perfect.

[@specialdelivery9196]

Well in the circumstances of First Contact, the Borg Queen would of assimilated anyone, she was quite desperate at that point.

[@DJCallidus]

I hadn't thought of it that way... Data can ONLY think about it...

[@JordanBeagle]

"The cat's out of the bag" Spot? 😂

[@JordanBeagle]

"I have a much to learn"

[@patluvsvettes]

Tasha Yar was the ONLY woman for Data!

[@MLamar2]

This was me in high school not understanding women and modern me harassing my wife by acting like Data

[@michealwatts7469]

I give no shits, she knew what she got into. A machine may learn a lot but until the emotion chip this dude is a walking marvel of information, physical ability, and pure fuckin logic.

[@s.31.l50]

Hey I’m like Data, I always over complicate and over analyze things😂😄

[@PhoenixPonyPhoenixOwl]

Why do girls have to be so complicated? Edit: I am a girl, so....

[@sharkdentures3247]

Best guess? It's your software. Even Data's programming in his positronic matrix ain't so complex. lol

[@celebrim1]

Women bear the heavier share of energy allocation where it concerns the bearing and nurturing of children. Therefore, evolution has equipped women to be choosy regarding their partners. Part of this choosiness is manifested as testing partners to ensure that they will remain loyal and care for the female even in, and especially in, periods of stress and difficulty. This tends to encourage women to subconsciously create emotional difficulties for their partner to see how they will handle it. "Girls", as you put it, can unfortunately become addicted emotionally to this cycle of stress creation and comfort and relief, since all phases of the cycle are potentially cathartic. The only weird thing about this scene is that Data, possessing the vast knowledge and intelligence that he has, is not aware of the these basic and well studied nuances of female psychology.

[@danieldickson8591]

@@celebrim1 As Data himself has remarked more than once, there's a difference between knowledge and experience.

[@giraffitti168]

btw ur comment isn’t actually edited, just thought I’d point that out lol

[@PhoenixPonyPhoenixOwl]

@@giraffitti168 Thanks! I fixed it.

[@benjaminA.stantonpun]

“Why I suck at relationships.” Data was quoting Jenna. 😁

[@iycephoenixx4249]

Haha, that kiss

[@AkaiAzul]

I feel sorry for this interaction. This lady is currently acting very selfish, wanting attention and reciprocation that Data cannot adequately provide at the time. She failed to realize that his ability for emotional fulfillment is lacking for both himself and others. She finally opens up and calms down when she understood his inexperience and genuinely smiles when she replaced the “needy girlfriend” routine with the motherly / mentor role. The problem is it wasn’t fulfilling her needs because of the aforementioned selfishness: she already came in wanting romantic attention and she found something else, so she left rather hurriedly. Data is blissfully unaware of her needs, but only came to understand his lack of understanding. Normally disheartening, but Data cannot have feelings, so it becomes another learning opportunity in his overarching goal of being more human.

[@Elly3981]

I think this lady was more attracted to Data's physical good looks than Data himself. Even if he was human, their relationship wouldn't have worked out because she wanted to change him to suit her desires.

[@tygrahof9268]

If your a woman: "Why can't you read my mind?" If your a man: "Do ta doot ta doot do da; Oop! Need a beer!"

[@slappy8941]

"You're" a dumbass. Unfuck yourself.

[@dalekcaan99]

Data is an absolute mood

[@milodiehl954]

So this is how i wish every relationship went so that way i dont feel stupid when people talk to me

[@andychow5509]

Logical conclusion: get rid of attention seeking girlfriend with daddy issues. In the end, she returns to her abusive boyfriend, and makes his life miserable.

[@TOFKAS01]

Boost your career by dating a superior officer?

[@Hexanitrobenzene]

Yeah, Data is the perfect choice for this plot...

[@nobodyuknow4911]

The ultimate example of a woman infatuated with someone because she thinks she can "change" him... He's literally a machine, trying to be more human and understand what it is to be a human, but at least in this episode, it's a very advanced AI, but no more feeling than the door she walked through...

[@randomizzer2389]

Data's like" Bitch I'm tryna paint"!