Jerrocs Betrayal Essay example -- Star Trek Defector Essays Papers

Jerroc's Betrayal In the Star Trek: the Next Generation episode entitled "The Defector," an interesting issue concerning loyalty and credibility is raised. When Admiral Jerroc of the Romulan Empire turns himself over to the Federation in an apparent attempt to save both parties from a potentially catastrophic war, he violates most of the unstated rules of turning against one's comrades to fight for the enemy. His behavior and statements as a prisoner aboard the Enterprise cause Captain Picard to doubt Jerroc's explanation for why he has undertaken such a course of action. Jerroc's argument is fairly shaky, as he relies initially on ethos, trying to put forth his cause in the most straightforward manner. As time progresses and the situation grows more grave, however, Jerroc begins to utilize a more emotional argument, which is often very effective when conversing with the "good guys." Jerroc's method of convincing Picard that he is sincere plays heavily in attempting to analyze another aspect of the si tuation: whether or not Jerroc's betrayal of the Romulans constitutes a treasonous and seditious act against them, or if he is simply defecting to the cause in which he truly believes. Jerroc's inconsistent argument, combined with other circumstances which unfolded throughout the episode, is evidence that Jerroc has lost his faith in the Romulan cause and has done what he felt is right. These circumstances help to clarify Jerroc's reason for betraying his Romulan brothers and make the distinction between his being a traitor and his being a defector. Before attempting to place a label of defector or traitor on Jerroc, it is necessary to establish a working definition of the two terms. Both terms certainly constitute an act of ... ...s toward the Romulans. For this reason, Jerroc simply cannot be viewed as a traitor under the definition previously established. His behavior and motives clearly show that Jerroc's intentions were unbiased, and that he merely tried to do what was right. An important factor in trying to determine if Jerroc is a traitor or a defector is the perspective the opinion is taken from. Without a doubt, the Romulans would view him as a traitor, as it is certain that they feel many negative feelings toward him. Jerroc also damaged the Romulans in an indirect way by ruining a plan which may have benefited them greatly. The definitions must be applied in a neutral context, however, and that context clearly shows Jerroc's non-hostile attitude toward the Romulans. Ultimately, the inconsistencies in Jerroc's argument helped to establish him as a defector rather than a traitor.