What would the Star Trek franchise be without our clever, large-lobed friends, the Ferengi? Introduced in Star Trek: The Next Generation in the episode “The Last Outpost” (S01E05), the species was originally intended as a major antagonist for the crew of Enterprise-D and the Federation in general.
Unfortunately, their appearance and demeanor didn’t make them believable foes, and they were mostly relegated to the background until Star Trek: Deep Space Nine gave us Quark, Rom, Nog, and the two former’s beloved “Moogie,” their mother, Ishka (one of my favorite DS9 characters). The series gave depth and respect to the Ferengi during its 7-year run, including expanding Ferengi culture, at the heart of which is the Ferengi Rules of Acquisition. This is a fascinating touchstone for the inhabitants of Ferenginar, so let’s take a look at how they came about, how they affect Ferengi life, and if they’re as strict as they seem.
1. There are 285 rules—more or less
Young male Ferengi are required to memorize 285 rules as they mature, and they usually learn them with the help of their parents. All the rules are tied to making a profit and succeeding in business once they become adults. Of course, both written and unwritten rules apply, including making rules up when all else fails!
2. The rules themselves were created for profit
According to Ferengi lore, the rules of acquisition were created by the first Grand Nagus, Gint, back in the early days of the Ferengi Alliance. Not only did the rules help establish Ferengi culture, but their very nature generated profit to further the extremely capitalistic ways of its people.
3. Every situation corresponds with a rule
According to the Ferengi, every conceivable business contract matches with a corresponding rule. This keeps conflicts to a minimum during any business transaction. Of course, when inconceivable problems crop up, the seller might have to finesse a rule to achieve his goal, which is always profit.
The Ferengi are an interesting people, and it’s amusing to imagine how they would use the Rules of Acquisition in our world today. Surely Quark would have a Patreon because, after all, according to Rule 18, “A Ferengi without profit is no Ferengi at all!”