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Starfleet Academy's 'Vox in Excelso' is way better than its low rating (and this is why)

SFA's fourth episode is a complex tale of identity and tradition.
Robert Picardo as The Doctor in Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, episode 4, season 1, streaming on Paramount+, 3035. Photo Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+.
Robert Picardo as The Doctor in Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, episode 4, season 1, streaming on Paramount+, 3035. Photo Credit: Brooke Palmer/Paramount+.
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3. Jay-Den insists they debate the Klingon diaspora

After the news of the Klingon refugee ship crashing spreads, the other cadets offer their support to Jay-Den, who remains stoic. The Doctor (Robert Picardo) then announces a debate event and asks for ideas. After some mild bickering about the topic of the Klingon diaspora, Jay-Den speaks up and all but insists they address it.

This is a compelling moment because, despite the sci-fi setting, the message remains relatable today. Is it better to turn one's head in the face of modern media or face the emotional pain that usually comes with confronting the truth? Jay-Den understands he must bring the truth to the debate, as he tells The Doctor, "Avoiding reality does not make it disappear."

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