When Data receives a distress call from a planet on the verge of collapse, he needs to decide whether to ignore the distress call or violate the Prime Directive and send a reply. Data's decision not only shocks the crew, but leaves Captain Picard in the dark for weeks. Pulaski finally stands up for Data. And Wesley learns about the Ensigns of Command.

Ruthie and Matthew talk about the implications of the Prime Directive, stories set in the Star Trek Universe that discuss the Prime Directive, and how the Prime Directive has had real-world influence on their own lives and decision making.