Science Officer's Log Entry III: Supplemental
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Stardate 1515.2
Stardate 1514.9
Science Officer's Log Entry III: Salt and Logic
I continue to fail to understand human behavior, regardless of the parameters I view it within. Observing the Captain and the Doctor in particular over the last day, I continue to create hypotheses and then discard them in my search for the true workings of mankind.
The salt creature that made its way on board the Enterprise and entranced the crew was certainly an interesting creature. Not only was it a fascinating study, but it was also highly dangerous. Of course, I was in no danger, due to my copper-based Vulcan blood, but the rest of the crew was not quite so fortunate.
My observations of the Doctor continue to prove illogical. When faced with the creature, he was unable to make a definitive move against it. Now, this hesitation was clearly initially due to the fact that he believed it was a long lost mate, a human woman named Nancy. Naturally under such circumstances his hesitation was a perfectly natural reaction. One would not expect him to kill a fellow human being in such a way.
However, it was quickly proven that Nancy was not in fact Nancy, but a creature that was killing the crew by sucking the salt from their bodies. Though it was proven quite clearly for the Doctor, he was still unable to make a move against the creature. He knew perfectly well that it was killing crew members, and yet Doctor McCoy made no move. The facts were clear. The only other variable was the fact that the creature was indeed the last of its species. I do not disagree that the loss of life, especially in such a case, is most unfortunate and quite wasteful; but it came down to a choice.
On one hand, the creature could be allowed to live, and destroy the entire crew of the Enterprise, including her Captain. Hundreds of lives lost. On the other hand, the creature could be destroyed, and hundreds of lives would be saved. Yes, a life would still be lost; but lives had already been lost. The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.
Despite the facts staring Doctor McCoy in the face, however, he froze in the face of his choice. Not only was the entire crew in danger, but the Captain was losing his life right before our eyes. It was only my timely intervention that prevented his death. But even when I struck the creature repeatedly across the face, a beating that would have killed an ordinary human and which had no affect on the creature, the Doctor still did not see reason. Just when it seemed that the Captain would be killed, however, the Doctor acted.
I will never understand the human capacity for last minute bravado. At least, that is what I perceive that must have been. My theorizing has not offered me any further possibility as of now.
I received another one of the Doctor's letters today, and I was interested to find a response to the situation within it. However, and most unfortunately, it gave very little explanation of the Doctor's logic, or lack thereof. I have posted the letter along with the rest for viewing.
The Doctor rambles within his letter about "killing Nancy", seeing death, and, having a drink. This drink of the Doctor's seems to be solidifying into quite a strong pattern. It may be something that needs to be remedied.
As for the Doctor's assumptions about my responses, I find them strange. If Doctor McCoy is aware of how illogical his actions and thoughts are, as can be seen by his surprisingly accurate analysis of what my particular response might be, then why does he continue within his current course of action? I find this occurrence to be entirely contrary; though that is quite within the Doctor's behavior patterns.
The Doctor also seems quite unhappy with the Captain's comment that he should be more like me. I admit that I would find that odd; however, he does admit the Captain has a point, and so I fail to see how he therefore finds it "tasteless". Aside from the fact that the Captain's comment has nothing to do with gustation, and humans really should be more precise with their word choice; I believe he is indicating his emotional discomfort at his human shortcomings being pointed out to him by another human. Perhaps not the most accurate or partial judge for such things, but it was an accurate statement nonetheless. As he sees the accuracy of the statement, and even admits to it, what form of logic dictates that he should continue to argue the point? None, of course, though there must be something internal causing him to behave and react the way that he does.
The Doctor's final note in his letter has caused me to realize that the Captain is deceiving the Doctor in regards to these letters. It seems that the Doctor did not give them to him; and I am still uncertain as to what the purpose behind his taking them and giving them to me is. I must conclude at this point it is for research purposes, and possibly due to human concern for the Doctor's mental health. I will continue my analysis with this in mind.
Spock out.
I continue to fail to understand human behavior, regardless of the parameters I view it within. Observing the Captain and the Doctor in particular over the last day, I continue to create hypotheses and then discard them in my search for the true workings of mankind.
The salt creature that made its way on board the Enterprise and entranced the crew was certainly an interesting creature. Not only was it a fascinating study, but it was also highly dangerous. Of course, I was in no danger, due to my copper-based Vulcan blood, but the rest of the crew was not quite so fortunate.
My observations of the Doctor continue to prove illogical. When faced with the creature, he was unable to make a definitive move against it. Now, this hesitation was clearly initially due to the fact that he believed it was a long lost mate, a human woman named Nancy. Naturally under such circumstances his hesitation was a perfectly natural reaction. One would not expect him to kill a fellow human being in such a way.
However, it was quickly proven that Nancy was not in fact Nancy, but a creature that was killing the crew by sucking the salt from their bodies. Though it was proven quite clearly for the Doctor, he was still unable to make a move against the creature. He knew perfectly well that it was killing crew members, and yet Doctor McCoy made no move. The facts were clear. The only other variable was the fact that the creature was indeed the last of its species. I do not disagree that the loss of life, especially in such a case, is most unfortunate and quite wasteful; but it came down to a choice.
On one hand, the creature could be allowed to live, and destroy the entire crew of the Enterprise, including her Captain. Hundreds of lives lost. On the other hand, the creature could be destroyed, and hundreds of lives would be saved. Yes, a life would still be lost; but lives had already been lost. The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.
Despite the facts staring Doctor McCoy in the face, however, he froze in the face of his choice. Not only was the entire crew in danger, but the Captain was losing his life right before our eyes. It was only my timely intervention that prevented his death. But even when I struck the creature repeatedly across the face, a beating that would have killed an ordinary human and which had no affect on the creature, the Doctor still did not see reason. Just when it seemed that the Captain would be killed, however, the Doctor acted.
I will never understand the human capacity for last minute bravado. At least, that is what I perceive that must have been. My theorizing has not offered me any further possibility as of now.
I received another one of the Doctor's letters today, and I was interested to find a response to the situation within it. However, and most unfortunately, it gave very little explanation of the Doctor's logic, or lack thereof. I have posted the letter along with the rest for viewing.
The Doctor rambles within his letter about "killing Nancy", seeing death, and, having a drink. This drink of the Doctor's seems to be solidifying into quite a strong pattern. It may be something that needs to be remedied.
As for the Doctor's assumptions about my responses, I find them strange. If Doctor McCoy is aware of how illogical his actions and thoughts are, as can be seen by his surprisingly accurate analysis of what my particular response might be, then why does he continue within his current course of action? I find this occurrence to be entirely contrary; though that is quite within the Doctor's behavior patterns.
The Doctor also seems quite unhappy with the Captain's comment that he should be more like me. I admit that I would find that odd; however, he does admit the Captain has a point, and so I fail to see how he therefore finds it "tasteless". Aside from the fact that the Captain's comment has nothing to do with gustation, and humans really should be more precise with their word choice; I believe he is indicating his emotional discomfort at his human shortcomings being pointed out to him by another human. Perhaps not the most accurate or partial judge for such things, but it was an accurate statement nonetheless. As he sees the accuracy of the statement, and even admits to it, what form of logic dictates that he should continue to argue the point? None, of course, though there must be something internal causing him to behave and react the way that he does.
The Doctor's final note in his letter has caused me to realize that the Captain is deceiving the Doctor in regards to these letters. It seems that the Doctor did not give them to him; and I am still uncertain as to what the purpose behind his taking them and giving them to me is. I must conclude at this point it is for research purposes, and possibly due to human concern for the Doctor's mental health. I will continue my analysis with this in mind.
Spock out.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Stardate 1512.9
Science Officer's Log Entry II: "Emotional Security"
I must admit it was a relief to retire to my quarters after the recent events that occurred aboard the Enterprise. As fascinating as my study of humans continues to be, it must also be noted that it is quite exhausting. The past twenty-four hours offered several versatile examples of the illogical tendencies of humans. I shall record them here for further study and analysis.
Subject 1: Lieutenant Dave Bailey
Lieutenant Bailey proved himself to be a prime example of a human under pressure. His reactions to all outside stimuli were emotional in the extreme.
Exhibit A- The Lieutenant found it necessary to raise his voice in order to announce the current location of an object of (at that point) unknown origins. [His precise words were: "It's blocking the way!".] Furthermore, not only was his increased volume unnecessary, but the information he provided was already quite clear prior to the point he provided it. The fact that I had just given the order to steer around the then unknown object was a clear indication that it was, in fact, blocking the way. My order would have been otherwise unnecessary.
I informed the Lieutenant that his increased volume was not, in fact, necessary, then wasted no further time with his lack of logic and continued to relay the appropriate commands.
Exhibit A- The Lieutenant found it necessary to raise his voice in order to announce the current location of an object of (at that point) unknown origins. [His precise words were: "It's blocking the way!".] Furthermore, not only was his increased volume unnecessary, but the information he provided was already quite clear prior to the point he provided it. The fact that I had just given the order to steer around the then unknown object was a clear indication that it was, in fact, blocking the way. My order would have been otherwise unnecessary.
I informed the Lieutenant that his increased volume was not, in fact, necessary, then wasted no further time with his lack of logic and continued to relay the appropriate commands.
Somewhat interestingly, the situation did not cease at this point.
Exhibit B- Upon informing Mr. Bailey of his further responsibilities in regards to the cube, which the Lieutenant seemed to have a proper grasp of, the Lieutenant came back to the original point of his illogical reaction. It is fascinating to see the way humans continue to replay and re-explain their actions, attempting to make them appear rational by offering irrational explanations.
Mr. Bailey, upon repeating his orders, instead of resuming the appropriate tasks, proceeded to inform me: "Raising my voice back there doesn't mean I was scared or couldn't do my job. It means I happen to have a human thing called an adrenal gland."
I find this statement fascinating for several reasons, the first being there was no logical purpose behind it. The occurrence of the Lieutenant raising his voice was illogical, but quickly passed into irrelevance after the initial reaction. I fail to understand his intention in bringing it up again. In my study of the human race, it does occur to me that he did so for something called 'emotional security', a phrase offered by my second subject, who I will arrive at shortly.
Secondly, his statement does not fit the facts. Clearly, and most especially since he pointed out that his reaction was due to excess secretion of hormones from his adrenal gland, it is clear that the Lieutenant was in fact experiencing the human emotion 'fear', or another similar response. The adrenal medulla produces the hormone epinephrine as a response to the human emotions of 'stress', 'fear', or 'anger'. While I did suggest to the Lieutenant that he consider having it removed, as it seems most inconvenient, this would not be necessary if the Lieutenant and his species could simply train themselves to control the gland as Vulcanoids such as myself do. However, from what I have seen of mankind, this would seem to present a rather daunting task for them.
Subject 2: Captain James Tiberius Kirk
I have worked alongside the very human Captain for quite some time now, and while I find his human tendencies more tolerable than that of certain other subjects, he still continues to baffle me with strange habits and irrational responses and methods.
Exhibit A: Interestingly, the Captain asks for my appraisal of nearly every situation without fail. However, the most fascinating part of this process is that he does this only after he has made up his mind as to which course of action he will take. Today I finally inquired as to the purpose of such a method, and the Captain informed me that it was for something called 'emotional security'.
Exhibit A: Interestingly, the Captain asks for my appraisal of nearly every situation without fail. However, the most fascinating part of this process is that he does this only after he has made up his mind as to which course of action he will take. Today I finally inquired as to the purpose of such a method, and the Captain informed me that it was for something called 'emotional security'.
A fascinating concept, indeed. I find it somewhat difficult to grasp; however, it seems to allow for much of the behavior I observe on board. Mr. Bailey seemed to be continuously motivated by his search for this 'emotional security', thus there was indeed a purpose behind his continued references to his adrenal gland, albeit an illogical one. The Captain openly admitted he asks questions to which he already knows the answer, a tendency I note in many humans; a most irrational and wasteful practice. In fact, one of the most fascinating humans in history, Albert Einstein, defines this practice as insanity ["-doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results."]
Exhibit B: The letters. The Captain handed me another letter today, again penned by Doctor McCoy. Since the letters are the Doctor's in origin, I will save further analysis of this exhibit for Subject 3.
My third and final subject cannot, of course, be anyone but the illustrious Doctor McCoy.
Subject 3: Doctor Leonard McCoy
Exhibit B: The letters. The Captain handed me another letter today, again penned by Doctor McCoy. Since the letters are the Doctor's in origin, I will save further analysis of this exhibit for Subject 3.
My third and final subject cannot, of course, be anyone but the illustrious Doctor McCoy.
Subject 3: Doctor Leonard McCoy
The Doctor has continuously proved himself illogical and irrational at every turn. So much so that I find it difficult to place his behaviors into any kind of pattern.
Exhibit A: Doctor McCoy's continual irrational responses and emotional outbursts in every situation are the prime evidence behind this exhibit. He was particularly emotional today in his interactions with Captain Kirk in specific regards to the young Lieutenant Bailey.
Perhaps there is a 'sympathetic echo' of emotions that takes place when two humans experience similar reactions that causes exponential compounding of the original response. Not a particularly pleasant prospect.
Besides this theory, I do not have any particular understanding of his reactions in regards to the Lieutenant. I will continue to observe.
Exhibit B: I must offer more specific evidence to create a proper scientific analysis, and therefore I bring forth a second letter, which is also now included in this log for reference alongside the first.
There is not much to report from this letter. It follows much the same pattern of the first, and reads much in the same way the Doctor speaks, which is to say, irrationally. Even more so, in fact, as the Doctor seems to have imbibed a large quantity of alcohol before writing it.
He seems to be writing the letter out of what I believe could be interpreted as the human emotion of 'guilt', seeming to not be pleased with himself for his irrational outbursts at the Captain. It does seem to me that he would be a good deal 'happier', if he were to simply forego the emotions in the first place. Thus, he would not have to deal with the apparently unpleasant emotions resulting from his initially unpleasant emotions. In fact, it seems to me that all emotions, whether construed 'good' or 'bad', inevitably result in circumstances unpleasant for all parties involved.
Exhibit B: I must offer more specific evidence to create a proper scientific analysis, and therefore I bring forth a second letter, which is also now included in this log for reference alongside the first.
There is not much to report from this letter. It follows much the same pattern of the first, and reads much in the same way the Doctor speaks, which is to say, irrationally. Even more so, in fact, as the Doctor seems to have imbibed a large quantity of alcohol before writing it.
He seems to be writing the letter out of what I believe could be interpreted as the human emotion of 'guilt', seeming to not be pleased with himself for his irrational outbursts at the Captain. It does seem to me that he would be a good deal 'happier', if he were to simply forego the emotions in the first place. Thus, he would not have to deal with the apparently unpleasant emotions resulting from his initially unpleasant emotions. In fact, it seems to me that all emotions, whether construed 'good' or 'bad', inevitably result in circumstances unpleasant for all parties involved.
However, I must admit the Doctor does have a point in regards to Jim and his lack of particular aspects of his wardrobe. His shirt seems to go missing at the strangest times, and he goes through them quite quickly.
Perhaps that was why he was digging through the Doctor's drawers again today, and happened to find this letter. Naturally, there are better places for him to find a proper shirt, but sometimes he is quite impulsive and irrational. It would fit his behavior pattern to decide to search through McCoy's drawer for a shirt if he found it the nearest place convenient to him at that particular moment. It does follow a certain pattern of rather twisted logic.
Perhaps that was why he was digging through the Doctor's drawers again today, and happened to find this letter. Naturally, there are better places for him to find a proper shirt, but sometimes he is quite impulsive and irrational. It would fit his behavior pattern to decide to search through McCoy's drawer for a shirt if he found it the nearest place convenient to him at that particular moment. It does follow a certain pattern of rather twisted logic.
I must finish this entry by saying that there was no reason to Doctor McCoy to so blatantly insult me in his letter. I am including the following paragraph for reference; I have placed in bold all particular reference to my apparent 'humanity'.
"I think stress brings
out the human in you [*Reference 1], actually. I've
looked at your medical records, of course. Half-human, that explains
it[*Reference 2]. Or most
of it. I have to wonder just how much human you actually inherited - it
can't be that healthy to suppress your human side to a Vulcan degree, but I'll just
keep an eye on you. You actually seemed more human
today than usual [*Reference
3], though. Proud of your
parents [*Reference
4], and don't think I didn't see you almost smiling over the idea of learning poker [*Reference 5]. I might have to hold you to that. If nothing else
playing a game with you might tell me a bit more about what's behind that stone
face of yours, so I can get a better read on this whole matter of Vulcan
emotions [*Reference
6]."
*Reference 1: It is quite presumptuous of the Doctor to make this statement. Not only does he make reference to the 'human in me', but this theory is reliant upon the previous part of the statement, which references the human emotion 'stress'. In order for the second portion to contain any accuracy whatsoever, the initial portion must first hold true. As I have never experienced the emotion in question, I see no reason to even dignify the second part of the statement with an analysis.
*Reference 2: While it is almost impressive that the Doctor included an actual fact in this statement, as half of my genetic makeup did, unquestionably, come from a human, I fail to see what he means by the phrase "that explains it". I am uncertain as to what, precisely, my human half is explaining. He makes no mention of specific behaviors nor traits that he might be connecting with this statement. As with all of the Doctor's attempts at any form of scientific method, this statement is vague, lacking in logical form and purpose, and therefore utterly useless.
*Reference 3: This statement begins by stating that my behavior was 'human' today, which, while I might protest the very idea, I see no need to, as the Doctor once again presents no evidence to this effect, simply repeating his prior statement with new wording. Therefore this statement is easily rejected as simple slander; since there is no evidence to contest, the claim needs no contesting in order to be dismissed.
The second problem with this statement is the fact that not only does it state that my behavior was human today, but by stating that my behavior was more human today than usual, the Doctor created the implication that the behavior is common, and has occurred before. Again, no evidence to this effect is produced, nor is any specific reaction or instance cited.
*Reference 4: Perhaps Doctor McCoy created this idea by transferring his own emotions into my words of fact. My first statement in this regard was simply: "I regret not having learned more about this Balok. In some ways he was reminiscent of my father." A statement of fact. I would find it fascinating to do a comparison of a creature similar in mannerisms to my father, which does not insinuate any emotional attachment to the matter.
*Reference 3: This statement begins by stating that my behavior was 'human' today, which, while I might protest the very idea, I see no need to, as the Doctor once again presents no evidence to this effect, simply repeating his prior statement with new wording. Therefore this statement is easily rejected as simple slander; since there is no evidence to contest, the claim needs no contesting in order to be dismissed.
The second problem with this statement is the fact that not only does it state that my behavior was human today, but by stating that my behavior was more human today than usual, the Doctor created the implication that the behavior is common, and has occurred before. Again, no evidence to this effect is produced, nor is any specific reaction or instance cited.
*Reference 4: Perhaps Doctor McCoy created this idea by transferring his own emotions into my words of fact. My first statement in this regard was simply: "I regret not having learned more about this Balok. In some ways he was reminiscent of my father." A statement of fact. I would find it fascinating to do a comparison of a creature similar in mannerisms to my father, which does not insinuate any emotional attachment to the matter.
Unless, of course, you are Doctor McCoy; in which case, this translates as: "I am an emotionally rampant humanoid with many strong feelings on the matter."
My second statement followed thus: "[My mother] considered herself a very fortunate Earth woman." Again, a statement of pure fact. She did consider herself such, and I have simply factually reported upon her emotions in regards to the matter, which makes no implication of the existence of any emotions within myself in regards to the situation.
Unless, of course, you are Doctor McCoy; in which case, the translation becomes: "My mother had many strong emotions about my father, which are in fact my emotions as well because we are connected together in a convoluted symbiotic cycle of emotion."
*Reference 5: I find it sufficient to simply say that I did not smile, nor did I have any intention of creating such a strange convolution of my features. The only thing that might be added here is the fact that "almost" is a word that certainly offers evidence of neither action nor situation, and is incredibly vague and unscientific in its origins. Referring to something that might have occurred, but in fact did not, leaves one with mere speculation and random disconnected theories with no basis in fact. Anything can "almost" occur. In fact, several times today, Doctor McCoy "almost" reacted as a rational human being. However, the point remains that he did not.
*Reference 6: (*see oxymoron)
My second statement followed thus: "[My mother] considered herself a very fortunate Earth woman." Again, a statement of pure fact. She did consider herself such, and I have simply factually reported upon her emotions in regards to the matter, which makes no implication of the existence of any emotions within myself in regards to the situation.
Unless, of course, you are Doctor McCoy; in which case, the translation becomes: "My mother had many strong emotions about my father, which are in fact my emotions as well because we are connected together in a convoluted symbiotic cycle of emotion."
*Reference 5: I find it sufficient to simply say that I did not smile, nor did I have any intention of creating such a strange convolution of my features. The only thing that might be added here is the fact that "almost" is a word that certainly offers evidence of neither action nor situation, and is incredibly vague and unscientific in its origins. Referring to something that might have occurred, but in fact did not, leaves one with mere speculation and random disconnected theories with no basis in fact. Anything can "almost" occur. In fact, several times today, Doctor McCoy "almost" reacted as a rational human being. However, the point remains that he did not.
*Reference 6: (*see oxymoron)
It can clearly be seen that the Doctor is fully a man of emotion, and not science.
However, I am curious to learn more about this game called 'poker'. The Doctor makes reference to the fact that it apparently relies on an unreadable face. I find it strange that such a game is popular within human culture.
Perhaps I shall ask Jim about it. Doctor McCoy strikes me as neither an accurate nor reliable information source.
Spock out.
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Stardate 1329.7
Science Officer's Log Entry I: Supplemental
As I was on my way to my quarters following a shift on the bridge, I was intercepted by the Captain. He held an object in his hand that appeared to be rather anachronistic. It was a hand written letter, written using an old style ink pen from Earth circa twentieth century. I found the materials interesting but somewhat inefficient, considering the computers and logs available for recording. I inquired as to the nature of the object, and the Captain informed me that the letter was for me from Doctor McCoy.
His face bore a rather disconcerting expression; I still find myself at a loss to analyze and read most human facial responses accurately. He seemed to be clenching his jaw in what I believe might be classified as the emotion of 'tension'. Another indicator in this respect was his deeply furrowed brow, seeming to also indicate a similar emotion. However, the corners of his mouth were upturned approximately 27 degrees, in the appearance of what is called a 'smile'. This expression generally indicates the emotion 'happiness', 'joy', or 'contentment'. As the two contradicted one another, I found myself at a loss to interpret.
Fact 1:
The Captain displayed physical signs of the human emotion 'tension'.
Fact 2:
The Captain displayed physical signs of the human emotion 'happiness'.
Fact 3:
The Captain is under constant stress relating to the command of an entire Starship and its crew.
Fact 1:
The Captain displayed physical signs of the human emotion 'tension'.
Fact 2:
The Captain displayed physical signs of the human emotion 'happiness'.
Fact 3:
The Captain is under constant stress relating to the command of an entire Starship and its crew.
Fact 4:
The letter Captain Kirk held was from the illogical Doctor McCoy.
Theory I:
Doctor McCoy infected the already vulnerable human Captain with his irrational behavior, and this, combined with the stress of commanding a Federation vessel, has caused Captain Kirk to experience a psychotic break.
Theory II:
Humans are illogical.
Theory II:
Humans are illogical.
I find the first theory must forcibly meld itself to the circumstances far too much to stand on its own as a viable option. The second, however, is barely scientific in its own right. However, it does seem to explain everything I have seen aboard this vessel since I first arrived. On that note, I shall continue this entry with my findings within the letter.
While the paper was, in fact, written to me; it contradicted its own nature within the first two sentences. It became apparent as I read that the letter was in fact not intended for me, though the Doctor clearly addressed and wrote it as though it were. In fact, the letter seemed to be intended for a one "Professor Higgsworth, expert in Psychology and Xenopsychology", one of the Doctor's professors at Starfleet Academy. I find this highly... "ironic", in the words of the humans. I did, in fact, study under him during my time at the Academy as well. His lessons were fascinating, albeit rather 'human' at times. It is also interesting to note now, that he apparently advised his students to write these strange letters that had no true recipient intended. It brings to light precisely the reason behind several of my disagreements with the esteemed professor, who maintained an emotionally colored view of the psyche, despite my attempts to explain the proper workings of the controlled mind. In retrospect, and with my current information, I do find that Professor Higgsworth had a valid point. Perhaps if I could comprehend the emotional coloring of the subjects in question, I would better comprehend their subsequent actions.
Within his letter, the Doctor made reference to one of my earlier statements: "The fact that my internal arrangement differs from yours pleases me to no end." I do recall he seemed to react oddly when I said it, though I did not have any concept of the true depth of my words' effect until now. He seems quite irrational about the entire situation; for some reason the placement of my organs elicits a highly emotional response from him.
The most prominent concern I have from the letter is the Doctor's final paragraphs regarding my own state. He seems to have developed the belief that there is something wrong with my functioning, perhaps because I do not react with the same irrational outbursts as himself.
A Theory in Regards to the Human Doctor:
If I were to calculate a randomized pattern of outbursts, complete with standard human expressions, and periodically display them around the Doctor; he would update his current diagnosis to 'normal' and cease in his attempts to "fix" me.
I must conclude, therefore, that in the Doctor's mind, the only thing that is wrong with me is my ability to think clearly and block out the influences of irrelevant outside stimuli.
A fascinating theory. However, it would be most distasteful to attempt in practice. I shall simply have to continue to observe Doctor McCoy.
While the paper was, in fact, written to me; it contradicted its own nature within the first two sentences. It became apparent as I read that the letter was in fact not intended for me, though the Doctor clearly addressed and wrote it as though it were. In fact, the letter seemed to be intended for a one "Professor Higgsworth, expert in Psychology and Xenopsychology", one of the Doctor's professors at Starfleet Academy. I find this highly... "ironic", in the words of the humans. I did, in fact, study under him during my time at the Academy as well. His lessons were fascinating, albeit rather 'human' at times. It is also interesting to note now, that he apparently advised his students to write these strange letters that had no true recipient intended. It brings to light precisely the reason behind several of my disagreements with the esteemed professor, who maintained an emotionally colored view of the psyche, despite my attempts to explain the proper workings of the controlled mind. In retrospect, and with my current information, I do find that Professor Higgsworth had a valid point. Perhaps if I could comprehend the emotional coloring of the subjects in question, I would better comprehend their subsequent actions.
Within his letter, the Doctor made reference to one of my earlier statements: "The fact that my internal arrangement differs from yours pleases me to no end." I do recall he seemed to react oddly when I said it, though I did not have any concept of the true depth of my words' effect until now. He seems quite irrational about the entire situation; for some reason the placement of my organs elicits a highly emotional response from him.
The most prominent concern I have from the letter is the Doctor's final paragraphs regarding my own state. He seems to have developed the belief that there is something wrong with my functioning, perhaps because I do not react with the same irrational outbursts as himself.
A Theory in Regards to the Human Doctor:
If I were to calculate a randomized pattern of outbursts, complete with standard human expressions, and periodically display them around the Doctor; he would update his current diagnosis to 'normal' and cease in his attempts to "fix" me.
I must conclude, therefore, that in the Doctor's mind, the only thing that is wrong with me is my ability to think clearly and block out the influences of irrelevant outside stimuli.
A fascinating theory. However, it would be most distasteful to attempt in practice. I shall simply have to continue to observe Doctor McCoy.
A curious thought: if, indeed, the Doctor did hide this letter with his 'socks' as he stated in the letter; what, precisely, was Captain Kirk doing in the Chief Medical Officer's sock drawer? This does not seem a logical place for a Starship Captain to spend his time.
A final note: I have included a reference section on my personal log main page, whereupon I have recorded Doctor McCoy's letter for future analysis. If further letters appear, I shall include them as well.
I have also included a poll, most especially intended for any humans reviewing this log. I request your input in regards to the Captain's emotional and mental state as described at the beginning of this entry.
Spock out.
Monday, August 12, 2013
Stardate 1329.1
Entry I: An Analysis of Mr. Harcourt Fenton Mudd and the Faults of the Human Race
On the subject of contamination; I have discovered a new 'contaminant' aboard. One "Doctor Leonard McCoy". If not for the comparison of an even more irrational presence arriving within approximately 409 Earth hours of the Doctor, I would have believed I had discovered the most illogical human currently in existence. However, my analysis is, as of yet, incomplete. There are far too many variables to make an exact determination.
The creature in question, who arrived on the ship 17 days and one hour after the Doctor McCoy, quickly proved himself a somewhat interesting, if almost entirely predictable, specimen of his kind.
Mr. Harcourt Fenton Mudd of Earth initially gave his name as Leo Walsh, a statement that quickly revealed itself as a falsehood. He came aboard with three women, who seemed to have a mesmerizing effect on the crew, including Captain Kirk, and especially the highly emotional Doctor McCoy. I fail to understand the strange reactions the crew had. Interestingly, one of the women interacted with me in a strange manner; by Mr. Mudd's response, I can only hypothesize that she attempted to recreate the strange hold she had over the human crew on me. Needless to say, she was unsuccessful. Mr. Mudd told the human woman to "save it"; however, I am still uncertain as to what, precisely, she was saving.
Upon the discovery of Mr. Harcourt Fenton Mudd's true nature, he was questioned by the senior officers, utilizing the computer's lie detecting function. The inquiry was led by myself, and it quickly became apparent that the human was all but entirely incapable of speaking the truth. He also seemed to be highly frustrated by the computer's logical responses to his lies. One would almost have thought that the responses surprised him, as though he expected the computer to act in a manner contrary to its nature and not perform its primary function. Which was, at that precise moment, to reveal the truth (or lack thereof) of Mr. Mudd's statements. Most illogical.
While I have found, in my dealings with humans, that their race is almost consistently illogical, and therefore responses of this nature should be considered expected much of the time; I still find their responses unsettling. What purpose was there behind lying, when he knew the computer's primary function was to reveal the falsehoods? He could not expect to fool the machine.
Upon further reflection, perhaps he did expect it. His irrational outburst, "blast that tin-plated pot", certainly seemed to imply that he felt betrayed by the computer. A completely illogical reaction, when one considers the computer is incapable of such emotion. A strange choice of words, as well. The computer is not composed in any part of that material, nor is it in any way included or referenced in the definition of a pot, as defined in the ship's reference banks: "-a container of earthenware, metal, etc., usually round and deep and having a handle or handles and often a lid, used for cooking, serving, and other purposes." (dictionary.com) I fail to see his purpose in referring to the computer as an object that it clearly is not.
Overall, I find this man to be a prime example of the irrational and illogical reactions I have come to expect from his race. Despite much pondering and meditation, and a thorough analysis of the circumstances, I have been unable to come to a satisfactory conclusion of my study.
Perhaps I shall ask Doctor McCoy. His brain seems to work in a similar manner.
Spock out.
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