Data or Spock?

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Which one is more like you?
Which is your favorite?
Which is more like Gene Roddenberry?
Does either demonstrate behavior that reminds you of your own Autistic traits?

Ambassador Spock:
He intrigues me, this Picard.

Lt. Commander Data:
In what manner, sir?

Ambassador Spock:
Remarkably analytical and dispassionate - for a Human. I understand why my father chose to mind meld with him. There's an almost Vulcan quality to the man.

Lt. Commander Data:
Interesting. I had not considered that. And Captain Picard has been a role model in my quest to be more human.

Ambassador Spock:
[looks at him] *More* human?

Lt. Commander Data:
Yes, Ambassador.

Ambassador Spock:
Fascinating. You have an efficient intellect, superior physical skills, no emotional impediments. There are Vulcans who aspire all their lives to achieve what you've been given by design.

Lt. Commander Data:
Hm. - You are half Human?

Ambassador Spock:
Yes.

Lt. Commander Data:
Yet you have chosen a Vulcan way of life?

Ambassador Spock:
I have.

Lt. Commander Data:
In effect, you have abandoned what I have sought all my life.

Which one is more like you?
I think Data is. What we've learned of Spock's youth makes it clear that he (and other Vulcans) are naturally very emotional but have suppressed the emotions. Data is not suppressing emotions. He really is a machine.

Which is your favorite?
Spock, I guess. I don't know why, though. Maybe because I saw him first? Maybe he has better story-lines? Maybe because he's more of an individual?

Which is more like Gene Roddenberry?
No idea.

Does either demonstrate behavior that reminds you of your own Autistic traits?
Both...but as I've said above, it comes naturally to Data but is the result of discipline for Spock.

Hmmm...maybe I should be flattered that Vulcans, who are not naturally inclined to behave like Aspies, put a great deal of effort to "be" Aspies?

I’m on Team Data although I like them both. I grew up with TNG.

I’ve got his daughter’s athletic ability:

Well I've just had to have a quick lesson in Star Trek from my bf and I've decided to like Spock best. Just because he's got a really cool hairdo and I really love pointy ears too

TNG was/is my favourite of the Star Trek universe, and I particularly enjoyed Data as a character.

Spock was okay, but I found Data a lot more plausible and relatable.

Neither.

Spock has always been my hero.But I also love Data.

I like Spock the best. He's the original.

Don't forget Lore and B4 (I have traits from both of them.)

I've never watched it but I'm gonna watch one of the movies with my bf and he'll talk me through it all....no doubt

Yeah with me it's wether or not it grabs my attention within the first few minutes. If it doesn't I won't watch it.

I think it's an ADHD thing

(Long)

1. Logical Thinking:
- Spock and Data: Known for their highly logical and analytical minds.
- Autistic Traits: Preference for logical thinking and problem-solving.
- Roddenberry's Influence: Roddenberry's background as an aircraft navigator might have contributed to the emphasis on logical decision-making on the Bridge.
- Savant Characteristics: The precision and expertise displayed by Spock and Data may draw parallels to savant abilities.

2. Difficulty with Emotional Expression:
- Spock and Data: Struggle with expressing and understanding emotions.
- Autistic Traits: Challenges in navigating and expressing emotions.
- Roddenberry's Influence: The disciplined and focused environment of aviation, reflected in Roddenberry's experiences, may have influenced the depiction of emotional control on the Bridge.
- Savant Characteristics: Some savants, while excelling in specific areas, may find emotional expression challenging.
- Episode Scenario: In "Plato's Stepchildren," forcing Spock to experience intense emotions is depicted as physically and emotionally damaging due to his Vulcan physiology, reflecting real-world debates on forcing neurotypical behavior on individuals with autism.

3. Focus on Facts and Logic:
- Spock and Data: Prioritize facts, logic, and rationality.
- Autistic Traits: Strong affinity for factual information and logic.
- Roddenberry's Influence: Roddenberry's background in navigation might have contributed to the portrayal of a fact-based decision-making process.
- Savant Characteristics: Savants often exhibit exceptional memory and proficiency in specific domains, aligning with the focus on facts.
- Episode Scenario: Logical decision-making is emphasized in scenarios like "Return to Tomorrow" and "Plato's Stepchildren," where Spock's Vulcan physiology plays a crucial role.

4. Struggle with Social Nuances:
- Spock and Data: Frequently grapple with understanding social nuances.
- Autistic Traits: Difficulties in social interaction and understanding subtle social cues.
- Roddenberry's Influence: The structured command environment on the Bridge may reflect the need for clear communication, reminiscent of aviation protocols.
- Savant Characteristics: Social difficulties are a common aspect in some savant individuals.
- Episode Scenario: Social dynamics are explored in various episodes, including "Plato's Stepchildren," where characters are manipulated using telekinetic powers.

5. Unique Perspectives:
- Gene Roddenberry: Encourages acceptance of diverse perspectives and ways of thinking.
- Autistic Traits: Bring unique perspectives and strengths to various situations.
- Roddenberry's Influence: Roddenberry's experiences in aviation may have fostered an appreciation for diverse skills and perspectives necessary in a cockpit.
- Savant Characteristics: Savants often offer unconventional and exceptional insights in their areas of expertise.
- Episode Scenario: The diversity of perspectives is showcased in various episodes, reflecting Roddenberry's vision, and in "Plato's Stepchildren," unique challenges arise due to the use of telekinetic powers.

6. Savant Abilities:
- Spock and Data: Displaying exceptional proficiency in various areas aligns with savant-like abilities.
- Autistic Traits: Some individuals with autism may exhibit savant abilities, showcasing extraordinary skills in specific domains.
- Episode Scenario: Savant-like abilities and their potential impact are explored in various episodes, notably in "Plato's Stepchildren."