‘Star Trek: The Next Generation’ Retro Recap – ‘The Nth Degree’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Fitting in is something that is supremely important to every human being out there, and understandably so. Because humans need to feel some kind of connection and some sense of belonging, and when we find that with a particular group of people, it gives our souls and minds incredible peace and security. Because at long last, we have a proverbial home and people that see us for us and most of us, find that particular need with ease. But for some folks, it is a little tougher to find that peace, since they don’t quite fit in with the usual societal norms. Which is why understanding, and care and inclusiveness is key to making sure that everyone feels as though they belong and even then… sometimes a little extra care is necessary for those that are considered to be outsiders.

Simply because, from time to time, the insecurities and loneliness linger for those that were once ostracized. To the point where they struggle to accept the fact that they’ve finally found people that see them for them. And that can lead to a touch of regression or an outright need for reassurance if they’re struggling to feel secure and really, this interesting aspect of the human condition is top of mind today, simply because it serves as the focus of the next episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation. For ‘The Nth Degree’ takes the time to catch up with Lieutenant Reginald Barclay, who we first met in the season three episode: ‘Hollow Pursuits’. And when we find Mister Barclay here, he’s definitely experiencing a touch of imposter’s syndrome when it comes to his place aboard the Enterprise.

Because despite the progress he’s made and the friendships that are now part of his everyday life, he still feels as though he just doesn’t fit in and that he can be better and do more to be a regular member of the crew, despite the fact that Troi and Geordi and everyone from the bridge crew assures him that he is fine the way he is and that he is welcome in their world. But sadly, their words fall on closed off ears since Barclay holds true to his beliefs and oddly… gets the opportunity to put those beliefs to the test. For a wild encounter with a probe, somehow ups his IQ to levels that are off the charts, giving him an ego boost and a drive to push himself to the limit and prove to the crew how wonderful he is and how much he belongs, now that he has the know how to solve the ship’s problems in record time and the intelligence to do something quite daring and dangerous.

For a moment of trouble motivates him to create a neural interface with the ship’s computer, so that he can handle a problem faster than fingers can type. A move that puts his mortality at risk for a brief moment before it is discovered that this was all part of a plan to meet a new species that explores the galaxy in a unique manner. But what matters more about Barclay's wild journey, is that once that encounter has come to a close and Reg is back to being the same guy he's always been, he is able to objectively see that he is still loved by his new surrogate family, and that he doesn't need to be anything more than he already is and that is a wonderful message to send to the audience. One that definitely reminds us to be objective when our mind fires up some insecure noise so that we can continue to enjoy the good feelings that come with finally knowing that we fit in, and are right where we belong.

If anything, that makes this episode a feel-good tale for certain, since it really is filled to the brim with subtle positivity and some cool science fiction moments as well. Since it is quite amazing to see Lieutenant Barclay transform before our eyes and become talented at... everything... because of the gift the probe gives him, and this transformation works simply because Dwight Schultz is a super talented actor and is allowed to shine in this particular tale. And really in the end, this is just good old fashioned, classic Next Generation when all is said and done. Since it examines the human condition in a positive light and offers up some uplifting commentary and it would seem the show is going to go on a lighthearted kick after exploring some heavier material, and there is nothing wrong with that. Especially when one considers that the next chapter in this storied saga, focuses on love… in the key of Q. Until next time.

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